EXPERT PERSPECTIVES

SISSY ASCHENBACH COLUMBUS Congress & Events

Artificial intelligence has been a topic of interest for some time now and is gaining increasing prominence, on platforms such as chatGPT. AI can undoubtedly bring benefits to the congress industry, particularly in automating processes. In the future, we can expect faster, more efficient, and accurate preparations, freeing up time for more complex tasks. However, caution is necessary as AI cannot (yet) replace interpersonal skills.

When experts gather at a congress, networking, exchanging ideas, and reconnecting with former colleagues are vital aspects that AI will unlikely fulfill. AI can offer support in various areas, enabling personalized education and tailoring congresses to specific target audiences.

In my opinion, it is still premature to determine the full extent of AI‘s influence on the congress industry. Nevertheless, it is already evident that changes are underway.

STEFAN WALTER MONDIAL Congress & Events

We closely monitor the advancements in AI. Congresses are complex in terms of organization and highly individual in terms of structure and culture. The essence of a congress lies primarily in human-to-human interaction.

Therefore, I currently do not perceive a threat of AI replacing congresses. Instead, we see initial applications as a „personal assistant for project managers“ to enhance process efficiency and communication, in „project marketing“ to develop innovative concepts, or to effectively analyze data and strategies. Moreover, individual chatbots could further enhance participants‘ engagement in congresses.