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Is it better to host conference management software in your own data center because that is the only place where data is truly secure, or is the cloud the simpler and even more trustworthy option? What are the strengths and weaknesses of each method, and what factors should you consider in your decision?

Recently, our team started discussing whether it is possible to represent person icons in Converia in a gender-neutral way. We had never questioned our current "little man" pictogram before, but perhaps that is exactly the problem. While we haven't found a completely neutral version (yet), it gave us one more reason to dedicate more time to the topic, especially since we have already received a few inquiries from our customers regarding gender-inclusive options. We must admit that it is not easy, and we are certainly not perfect in this area yet. But how do we design conference software that doesn't exclude anyone?

Hotel room blocks are a very practical concept: attendees can book their hotel room right along with their conference ticket, saving them the trouble of searching for suitable accommodation. While that may be true in theory, the reality is a bit different: according to a new study, the provided room blocks are seeing relatively low uptake. This is less because no one needs a hotel room, but rather because of too many unanswered questions that organizers fail to address adequately.

Planning a conference might initially seem like something you can handle on the side, but many people only realize the mountain of tasks involved once preparations shift into high gear. Losing time or getting stuck during the organization process are two things you definitely want to avoid. Unfortunately, that isn't always possible. But help is at hand in the form of various conference management tools that take some of the planning burden off the organizers' shoulders. We’ve put together a small selection of the most helpful ones.

Secure procedures, unsettled organizers: The existing authentication process for online transactions will be replaced by the new 3D Secure 2.0 security protocol starting September 14. In the context of conferences, this means that ticket purchases will be more secure. But what exactly do conference organizers need to do now to ensure everything runs smoothly by the time registration opens?

Getting around on the street is usually quite simple: there are signs everywhere pointing the way to your destination, and if they serve their purpose, you arrive. A conference should be no different. Instead of spending too much time trying to find the right rooms, good wayfinding should make this a task that is literally accomplished while walking. Can digital displays do this better than analog signs?