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erging

MEGA TRENDS

Given the importance of sustainability, the researchers anticipate more automa ted sustainability and impact monitoring tools. For example, services that measure, report and optimise the ecological and social impact of events using real-time carbon footprint analyses and data-driven sustainability advice. Hybrid and remote event support also plays into some of the megatrends. According to the FMS report, innovative solutions are emerging to facilitate hybrid events, including virtual event assistants, remote production and interactive tools that provide an equal experience for both in-person and online attendees. Finally, the researchers mention AI-driven content creation and curation. The future is automating the composition, personalisation, and distribu tion of event content, such as programmes, newsletters, and social media updates, tailored to the preferences of different target groups. Key questions for 2025 In 2025, the focus of the FMS project shifted to the interaction between two dominant mega trends: demographic change and the rise of AI and automation. The researchers are looking at how demographic changes, such as an ageing population and staff shortages, influence the organisation of busi ness meetings.

- Individualization and self-realization - (de)globalization and geopolitics - Health and mindfulness - Digitalization and connectivity - New work and work-life integration - Lifelong learning and knowledge transfer - Demographic change - Security and data protection - Automation and artificial intelligence - Diversity and gender shift

In terms of technology, the key question is which tasks and processes can AI and automation take over without compromising the quality and experience of events? And which new skills are needed in a changing sector? How can organisa tions efficiently deploy and train their staff? And then, there’s the rather philosophical matter of how humans and technology can collaborate optimally and in which circumstances the human aspect remains essential. The ultimate goal of the 2025 research phase is to develop strategies that allow organisations to address the shortage of qualified personnel while also capitalising on the potential of automation. FMS 2024 report The GCB Future Meeting Space is now in its tenth year and has become an important trend baro meter for organising business meetings, provi ding new insights annually that can be directly applied in practice. The developments explored in depth in 2024 focus on the smart combination of human talent

- Neo-ecology and sustainability - Urbanization and smart cities - Mobility and autonomous driving

and technological innovation, with a focus on social trends such as ageing, sustainability

and changing working methods. The research results are available for free as a management report on the GCB website: https://bit.ly/FMS24report

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