Here are five factors an association should consider when determining if they need to hire an event management company to plan their annual conference:

1. Experience and Expertise: Does your association have staff with the necessary skills and experience to plan and execute a successful conference, or would it be beneficial to bring in an event management company with experience in your industry?
2. Time and Resources: Planning a conference requires a significant amount of time and resources, including managing vendors, negotiating contracts, and coordinating logistics. Does your association have the capacity to handle these tasks while also managing other responsibilities?
3. Budget: Can your association afford to allocate funds for hiring an event management company? Keep in mind that an event management company may be able to negotiate better rates with vendors and provide cost savings through their industry connections.
4. Attendee Experience: How important is it to your association to provide a high-quality attendee experience? An event management company can help ensure that all aspects of the conference, from the venue to the catering to the entertainment, are well-planned and executed.
5. Risk Management: Planning a conference involves inherent risks, such as last-minute cancellations or unexpected issues with vendors. An event management company can help mitigate these risks and have contingency plans in place to ensure a smooth and successful event.

Considering these factors can help associations make an informed decision about whether or not to hire an event management company for their annual conference.