BIG Conference Bigger, Despite the Downturn

Record numbers of first-timers booked for a research conference? It doesn't sound like 2009. But BIG, the UK's b2b research association, says a more open, debate-oriented style and a strong client-side presence are two of the factors bringing in the new faces as it gears up for its annual get-together.

Conference's Ruth McNeill says the record 'signals there are a lot of new companies on the block who are interested in knowing more'. Overall booking numbers are holding up well and slightly ahead of last year.

Despite the new features, BIG is 'not fixing what ain't broke' - and this includes the venue. Once again, the Marriott St. Pierre hotel in Chepstow will play host to the highly rated event. The social scene and sports facilities will receive their usual attention, and continuing the theme of first-timers, beginners will be invited to join the pre-conference golf session for a free lesson.

There are two keynotes: DVL Smith's Dr David Smith opening proceedings on Thursday, a day devoted mainly to client issues, with a discussion of neuroscience, emotion and reason in the decision-making process; and the CIM's Mark Stuart will close the second day of the conference, which is focused on agency issues.

Open sessions on the current climate include a client forum and a more general debate on 'What the Future will Hold' - these are building on pilot sessions last year, which proved popular. Clients from Nokia, Vodafone, BT, Legal & General, Associated News and the Royal Mail will take part, and in addition to the inevitable discussion of social media and ROI, subject matter will include some fundamentals such as 'desk research today' and combining research and financial data. The program also offers three training sessions, covering the Stated Preference technique, 'using the customer's route map' and extracting insight.

The Conference, running from 13th to 15th May and entitled B2B research: New Dimensions, has its own web site at www.bigconference.org .

All articles 2006-23 written and edited by Mel Crowther and/or Nick Thomas, 2024- by Nick Thomas, unless otherwise stated.