Mobile World Congress: Impact & Event Operations
Mobile World Congress: Event Analysis
Benefits of Hosting MWC in Barcelona
- Economic Benefits
- Improved Infrastructure and Services
- Opportunities for Local Entrepreneurs
- Positive Publicity for Barcelona’s Brand
- Citizen Access to Innovative Services
- Job Creation Opportunities
- Boosts Tourism During Low Season (March)
- Cultural Enrichment
Challenges and Drawbacks of MWC
- Gender Disparity in Staffing (90% female staff vs. 10% female attendees)
- Potential for Public Transport Strikes (Metro, Taxi)
- Increased City Crowding
- Risk of Negative Publicity for Barcelona
- Higher Prices for Local Citizens
- Limited Availability of Taxis and Crowded Public Transport
- Increased Pollution from Traffic
- Rise in Ancillary Services (e.g., prostitution, illicit activities)
Event Logistics: Planning and Execution
The management science of logistics assists event managers in identifying the critical elements of event and festival operations. Logistics involves analyzing and managing various aspects of an event by subdividing the work into distinct categories. This encompasses the entire operation: pre-event planning, during-event execution, and post-event shutdown.
Human Resource Strategy for Events
An event’s human resource strategy aims to support its overall mission and objectives. This connection can be demonstrated by examining the following examples, which identify key areas where an organization might set objectives and subsequently focus on supporting human resource management activities:
- Cost Containment: Focus on improved staff and volunteer productivity, reduced absenteeism, and optimized staff numbers.
- Improved Quality: Achieved through better recruitment and selection, expanded employee and volunteer training, appropriate staffing levels, and enhanced financial rewards and volunteer benefits.
- Improved Organizational Effectiveness: Involves better job design, strategic changes to organizational structure, and fostering improved relations with employees and volunteers.
- Enhanced Social and Legal Compliance: Achieved through improved training in relevant legislation, including occupational health and safety, anti-discrimination, and equal employment opportunity.
Whatever human resource management objectives are set for an event, they must adhere to the SMART criteria (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound).
Volunteer Event Steward: Role Description
Volunteer Event Stewards promote and act as ambassadors for the Festival. They serve as the primary point of contact for members of the public purchasing program books, event merchandise, and seeking general information.
Volunteer Event Stewards often assist with administrative and marketing tasks. Their role is critical to the success of the event; stewards advocate for our work and support our mission. They are responsible for looking after and serving our most valued asset – our audience.
Key Responsibilities of Event Stewards
- Selling Festival programs at all events: pre-performance, during intervals, and post-performance.
- Providing excellent customer service to all audience members.
- Handling cash transactions during events.
- Promoting the work of the Festival and supporting Festival staff during events.
- Performing other duties, including merchandise sales, as required by Festival staff.