Revised 1/2012

HRI 231 - Principles of Event Planning & Management (3 CR.)

Course Description

Focuses on the detailed aspects of the five critical stages in planning and managing successful special events: researching needs and goal assessments; designing events to meet organizational purposes; planning the effective event; coordinating and providing on-site management and post-event evaluation. Applies to corporate, association, non-profit or social events. Lecture 3 hours per week.

General Course Purpose

The purpose of this course is to provide the student with a functional working knowledge of the special events segment of the meetings and exhibition industry so that they can effectively lead the production of a special event. Additional emphasis will be given to the logistics involved in planning a variety of events commonly organized by organizations. Course Prerequisites/Co-requisites None.

Course Prerequisites/Corequisites

None.

Course Objectives

Upon completion of this course, the student should be able to:

  • Define special events
  • Identify the five critical stages of all successful events
  • Design an event which accomplishes the goals of an organization
  • Research and conduct a needs analysis for an event
  • Conduct a SWOT analysis of an event
  • Assemble an event team and delegate assignments
  • Produce a basic contract
  • Develop a budget and prioritize the budget components for a successful event
  • Conduct a site inspection
  • Identify risk management procedures for events
  • Describe gap analysis as applied to producing an event
  • Review marketing techniques and sponsorship solicitation for an event
  • Identify the suppliers needed to produce an event
  • Produce a timeline and production schedule for an event
  • Describe a training intervention program relating to alcohol consumption
  • Analyze the essential components of producing a golf and/or tennis tournament, fun run,
  • or other sporting event
  • Analyze the essential elements of producing a silent auction fund-raiser
  • Review the basic components of producing an awards banquet, reception, and company picnic
  • Produce a post-event evaluation process

Major Topics to Be Included

  • Needs assessments: limitations and stakeholders, theme, and goals.
  • Strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT) analysis.
  • Budgeting.
  • Gap analysis.
  • Contracts with suppliers.
  • Timelines.
  • Site inspection, linen and caterer reports.
  • Risk management checklist.
  • Floor plans and diagrams.
  • Production schedules.