top of page
Writer's pictureLorie Grooms, CMP

binder vs. tablet

Updated: Dec 15, 2019

Print vs. electronic. Old school vs. new school... When it comes to having key files on hand at any event, meeting planners are known for having one or two (ok I'm guilty of having up to three) binders onsite to keep all of the event files organized. It can bring a level of comfort to be able to physically hold the paperwork that demonstrates all the work completed, especially since so much of event planning is not tangible. How to choose? Don't, use both!

Binder vs. Tablet

Here's a list of how to best keep each file...

Print: Lugging around a bulky and heavy binder isn't efficient. Keep it at a convenient location, at the registration desk or in the on-site event office. Organize the binder with labeled tabs, to keep like items together:

  • Signed Work Orders/BEOs -- as a back-up to the electronic file

  • Program/Agenda

  • Exhibitor Contracts/Registration Forms -- being able to physically show someone the form they completed can be helpful

  • Attendee/Registration Lists -- sorted by last name, company name, and any additional way that a search may need to be done

  • Volunteer Schedules -- have multiple copies available for staff and volunteers to review

  • Scripts -- stakeholders get busy at events too, be the hero if they forget to bring their copy

Electronic: Place all the files in the cloud storage service of your choice, I prefer dropbox; add the dropbox mobile app to a tablet and make sure each file on the tablet is made available offline or marked as a favorite -- so even without wifi or cell service the files can be accessed:

  • Work Orders/BEOs -- searching for keywords in a PDF saves time, compared to flipping through pages of printed files

  • Program/Agenda

  • Contact Lists

  • Venue and Vendor Contracts

  • Group Resume

  • Hotel rooming list and pick-up report

  • Certificate of Insurance

  • PowerPoints and presentations

Like to have a third and fourth back-up? Put all of the files on a jump drive for the event team and put all of the PowerPoints and presentations on a second jump drive for the Audio/Visual team.

...until we meet again!


bottom of page