Background
The New York State Society of PAs (NYSSPA) is a 501(c)(6) representing New York Physician Assistants, holds 1 CME Conference annually with 400-500 attendees and has 3,600 members.
The Challenge
The annual CME Conference is the organization’s second largest revenue stream. We needed to create a profitable, successful virtual conference that delivered the necessary CME elements for our members along with the social elements that our members look forward to such as networking, the annual awards gala, Medical Jeopardy, auction and sponsor engagement.
The Solution
Goals
- Draw 85% of the number of attendees from 2019
- Create a professional, interactive experience for all participants.
- Connect PA members and non-member with NYSSPA.
Actions Taken
- Drill down to what is important to attendees about the conference experience. Conservative budget for virtual
- Create a budget that does not undervalue virtual. Strategize how to accommodate AV/production as this is key
- Leverage sub-committees for the multiple elements. AV company included in all discussions. Dashboards to track progress.
- Execute virtual conference as you would an in-person event. Full ops schedule with assigned roles for all team members.
The Outcome
Insights/Learnings
- AV/production is essential.
- Adapt communications to meet expectations.
- Design opportunities to create PA pride and showcase the organization to members.
Next Steps
- 2021 plan to include hybrid, virtual and in-person budget.
- Engage stakeholders.
- Build content library for members.