What the Tech?
Written by Jason Logan Monday, 09 March 2009 04:01
By George Kong, Student Member of ISES Orlando
Hello, my name is George Kong. I am a student attending the University of Central Florida Rosen College of Hospitality Management. Maybe some of you have seen me at ISES meetings or working various special event functions around Central Florida. I have been trying to fill my brain as fast as I can learning all the elements that go into creating special events. It is a lot like drinking out of a fire hose. I have been asking several industry leaders for tips and secrets that I might not get from reading a book in a classroom. Here is part of a conversation that I had with one of those industry leaders, ISES Member Jon Adcock, Chameleon Designs.
George Kong: What product or service does your company offer that is ahead of
the technology trends, pose a great advantage to the event industry, and
can enhance your clients' events?
Jon Adcock: That's a great question. Some elements are truly ahead of the curve, while we have others that have
been around a while, but due to their uniqueness, still WOW crowds
when they see them. First and foremost is our Interactive Lighted
Dance Floor. Touch sensitive tiles allow for guest interaction while
working or playing on the floor. In addition, logos, pictures and even
video can be played all while people walk on top of it.
We also have elements that I call "fun toys", which include moving
head foggers, cryo jets (for cooling off crowds), Crowd misters on
demand (we've all experienced this effect at any of Disney's 4D
attractions), live texting systems with are great for both onsite and
follow up marketing and laser graffiti (for doodling on walls and
buildings). At first glance, no one really needs these elements at
their event, but to bring it over the top, these are definitely the
technical items that will do it.
Then we have some elements that are a bit older, but still turn heads,
and that's our lasers and water products. From small air cooled
systems to large frame water cooled systems, we supply full color
laser systems for both atmospheric and graphical events. This allows
for a client to grab their guests' attention and display their message
in a very unique high tech way that will surely stay in people's minds
well after the event has ended. In addition, we have our water
products, Water screens for projection and dancing water shows as
well. All used to grab guests' attention and present their message in
an a-typical manner. People will remember something that's different,
and they'll talk about something that's different.
Then there's "Going Green". We supply a full line of LED products and
low power consumption products that allow for clients to contribute to
saving the environment. Anything we can do to make the client feel
good while spending money is a plus.
GK: With the technology revolution what advice can you
offer members to optimize their day to day business?
JA: Technology is changing quickly. With the absolute latest tech stuff comes a high
price. However, going back one or two generation of that same product
could be significantly less expensive but could still be cutting edge
for your client. Look for those alternatives. A successful event
designer will create just the right mix of cutting edge and older
technology to fit the clients' budgets.
GK: What tips do you have for achieving the best lighting effects for events?
JA: Consult the pros! Get an idea of what needs to be achieved and consult
a true lighting designer. Lighting designers don't push what they have
in inventory; they tell you what you need to achieve the desired
effect. In most cases, if there's more then one option, they can give
you pros and cons for each fixture. Bottom line; use the right fixture
for the desired effect. If you need assistance, give us a call. We'd
love to assist.
Thank you Jon for sharing your knowledge with me. That sure does help out a lot.
Look for me at the next meeting, and I may be asking you about what you do and how it will help me be the best event planner I can be.