Planning a meeting or conference is no cakewalk. Here are the top tips from expert event planners who have handled hundreds of association conferences:

1. Articulate Your Goals: This may seem obvious, but you would be surprised how easy it is to forget this step. It's harder to plan and choose when you have fuzzy thinking. Here is an example of a clear conference objective. To provide attendees with an opportunity to rethink their roles in the rapidly changing library environment and to enhance their change management skills. Here is a leadership retreat objective: To set priorities and shape the strategic planning process for the upcoming year so that we improve customer service.

2. Make the Location Enticing: Choose a place with a special feeling. For example, great weather (think Cancun), great tourist attractions (think Whistler), great food (a local restaurant) or an-off beat location (think Fantasyland Hotel).

3. Make it Easy for People to Network: According to a 2004 meeting industry poll, the number one reason people attend conferences--is to network. Too many conferences and meetings only offer a cocktail hour. Some people don