Any new Convention Centre will face stiff competition during the next decade as many new International Convention Centres ( ICCs ) are brought on to the market, and older Centres are upgraded to the highest levels. Due to the globalisation of the MICE market any design philosophy must therefore focus on Electronic Systems and Information and Communication Technology that will allow the Centre to compete with the best in the world. International trends clearly show that there is no place for compromise in a modern Convention Centre. A multi-function centres must be able to support the various meeting and event functions at the highest level. To attempt anything else would put the Centre’s business at risk. Rather have a meeting space that is excellent in one area than a multi-function space that is average in all areas ?

It’s NOT about the technology, it’s about the people who need to use the technology- Mike Barker

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ICC's have a need for layers of technology including : "There is no place for compromise in a modern Convention Centre"

• Wireless Networks
• Structured Cabling
• Blown Fibre
• Screened Cabling
• Security
• CCTV
• Networked Video Recording
• Day / Night Cameras
• Access Control
• Audio Systems
• Dynamic Signage

A critical issue in a modern ICC is a turn around time in the order of minutes. Efficient multi-function Convention Centres all have quick turn around times in order to maximise the use of the venues, so as to “squeeze” more out of the capital investment in the building. Exhibition halls currently have an average occupancy level of 30 % - 40% for example. The aim is to achieve 60% which is seen as international best practice ( In the USA the national average is 63% ). Short term averages over a month of 70 - 80 % must be possible. Thought must given to be installing proven system to cut turn around times of a hall to less than 10 minutes. ( distributed audio systems, DALI lighting controls, room combining for the HVAC, for example) Such occupancy levels reduce maintenance times and the Building Management Systems will include diagnostics to allow Management to monitor and manage maintenance of the building’s HVAC, Electrical, and IT infrastructure with out interruption of the events.

Technological capacity is as crucial for increasingly complex business events as it is for the setting up of specialist international conferences and scientific congresses- The International Association of Congress Centres

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