In an ever-changing industry it is paramount you keep up with the latest meeting trends, technologies, formats and techniques. Over the past year there has been a significant shift towards webcasts, hybrid and virtual meetings. More agencies and production companies offer it as part of their services, and digitalisation within corporate organisations means even they are leaning towards this new way of meeting. Not necessarily because it is a better format than meeting face-to-face, which it’s not, but perhaps because the alternative is impractical and/or too costly. Yet many of us are still reluctant to embrace hybrid and virtual meeting formats. Why?

Maarten Vanneste CMM, author of ‘Meeting Architecture: A Manifesto’ (MDI 20108) and founder of the Meeting Design Institute has grabbed the bull by the horns. He has written the world’s first book to help meeting designers, architects and planners understand the concept of the Multi-Hub Meetings format. According to Maarten, Multi-Hub Meetings are the upcoming format and the ideal combination of face to face and virtual. Groups of participants in different locations are connected (virtually) in a way that people say, ‘it felt like we were all in the same room.’

Speaking about his drive behind the new book, he says “Multi-Hub meetings is the dream come true for the meeting industry. It offers a great alternative for online meetings with individual participants. This is about groups meeting groups. So, the meeting venue still provides its hospitality services, while planners make procurement happy by spending less on travel."

Through several different case studies and vast experience, Maarten shares best practises and invaluable tips. The book is written in an easy to read, handbook style and explores every aspect of the Multi-Hub Meeting. From the planning and programme design to the AV and technology, everything is covered.

“As meeting professionals evolve towards designing better and more productive meetings, the Multi-Hub format should be part of any meeting designer’s toolbox. It is the ideal solution for some events, so knowing the basics and speaking the language of Multi-Hub will become a crucial asset to any meeting planner’s career.” says Maarten Vanneste.