High-class Keynote: “Success Factors For Events”

Experience the world of professional event management up close! On Friday at Prolight + Sound 2024, the focus will be on the secrets of successful events. In the keynote “Success Factors for Events” presented by renowned experts Prof Stefan Luppold and Patrick Haag, you will be offered a unique opportunity to discover the secrets and strategies behind successful events. This talk promises not only inspiration, but also practical insights that could fundamentally change the way you look at event management. Prepare to expand your knowledge and take your skills to the next level.

Developing successful events: A deep dive into critical factors

The keynote by Prof Stefan Luppold and Patrick Haag offers a comprehensive analysis of the key factors that determine the success of events. It addresses the often neglected importance of clearly defining objectives and target groups and emphasises the importance of monitoring results. The focus is on topics such as participant satisfaction, team motivation, increasing brand awareness and improving the corporate image. The presentation also sheds light on how creative processes in event planning are influenced by budget and time pressure. It will also discuss how elements such as catering, matchmaking and event technology act not only as operational tools, but as key design elements for event success.

This keynote offers a unique opportunity to learn first-hand from two renowned experts. An ideal platform for anyone working in or interested in the event industry. We look forward to welcoming you to this exciting event!

Prof. Stefan Luppold: A life for event management

As a renowned expert in the field of event management, Prof. Stefan Luppold is a key figure in this dynamic industry. His career spans more than two decades, during which he has been heavily involved in various international event projects. This wealth of experience is reflected in his twelve years as head of the “Business Administration – Trade Fair, Congress and Event Management” degree programme at the Duale Hochschule Baden-Württemberg (DHBW) Ravensburg. There, he has established himself as a sought-after lecturer and researcher who passes on his extensive knowledge to the next generation of event managers.

Prof Luppold also founded the Institute for Trade Fair, Congress and Event Management (IMKEM) in 2009, which underlines his passion and commitment to this field. His work spans the various facets of the event industry, including working with trade fair and congress companies, stadiums and arenas, cultural institutions as well as event departments of scientific associations and event agencies.

As an author and editor, Prof Luppold has published more than 30 specialist books, including the “Praxishandbuch Kongress-, Tagungs- und Konferenzmanagement” from 2017. His publications offer valuable insights and practical guidance that are appreciated by industry professionals and students alike.

In his role as Chairman of the “Landesfachkommission Messe, Event und Tourismus” of the Baden-Württemberg Economic Council, Prof Luppold makes a significant contribution to shaping and developing the industry. His membership of the advisory board of mice:lab Bodensee and his position as chairman of the supervisory board of Schneeweiss AG Interior demonstrate his broad spectrum of expertise and his ability to represent and promote various interests within the industry.

Prof Luppold’s extensive expertise and commitment to the various areas of the event industry distinguish him as a leading figure in this field. His work has made a significant contribution to the development and understanding of event management, both in the academic world and in its practical application in the industry. Prof Luppold is regarded as a visionary and a source of inspiration for many who work in or wish to enter the dynamic world of event management.

Patrick Haag: marketing expert with a practical perspective

Patrick Haag, Head of Marketing at music & light design GmbH, brings with him an impressive 20 years of experience in the event technology industry. He has specialised in the conception and implementation of live communication concepts and offers his expertise to both large agencies and companies.

Today, Haag not only advises companies on trade fair and event marketing activities, but also lectures at various universities. He teaches on the trade fair, congress and event management degree programme at the DHBW Ravensburg and on the sports and event management degree programme at the Lake Constance Campus of the Steinbeis Business Academy/Steinbeis University Berlin. He is also active as a trainer, speaker, lecturer and seminar leader for organisations such as Management Circle AG and escolar – fair excellence.

Haag’s dissertation focusses on event marketing for SMEs and start-ups. He is also the author and editor of numerous specialist publications on event marketing and the management of small and medium-sized enterprises.

music & light design GmbH, where Haag works as Head of Marketing, offers a comprehensive range of sound, lighting, video, media and stage technology for events of all kinds. Whether it is trade fairs, events, physical, hybrid or online formats, the company is recognised as a reliable partner for professional and emotional target group communication. With a team of around 50 employees and the largest technical warehouse in southern Germany, music & light design GmbH offers customised solutions and the best expertise.

Elevate your wow: Our keynote highlights

Prolight + Sound 2024 will feature an impressive line-up of panel discussions, keynote speeches and live performances. Highlights include award-winning creative director and choreographer Genevieve Cleary, producer and DJ Gregor Tresher, Edgar Dirksen, label head of Cocoon Recordings, and all-round guitar talent Yasi Hofer. A special keynote speech will be given by William Ellis and Prof Tim Wall on the topic “What is your One LP?”. Other notable speakers include designer and entrepreneur Stefan Weil and DJ Emanuel Satie.

Highlights of Prolight + Sound 2024

Prolight + Sound 2024 presents an extensive supporting programme with industry presentations, interactive workshops and live product demonstrations. Seminars offer practical insights and added value. In addition, prestigious event industry awards will be presented at this event.

• New in 2024: PLS Community Nights: After the trade fair closes, we invite you to unique events in Frankfurt’s exclusive locations, such as the Champions Bar in the Marriott Hotel. Enjoy networking, good music and drinks in a pleasant atmosphere.
• Guided Tours: Our popular “Guided Tours” are once again part of Prolight + Sound. These free guided tours take place daily and are open to all trade visitors. The tours will be conducted in English.
• ProAudio College: The ProAudio College, in cooperation with VDT e.V., is expanding its seminar programme in 2024. The programme has an international focus and aims to promote young talent in the industry and offer specialised further training. Topics include current trends in sound reinforcement and home studio productions.
• Future Talents Day: The Future Talents Day on 22 March is dedicated to the next generation of the industry. Young talents can get a taste of various professional fields in the event industry through presentations, workshops and exclusive insights.
• Prolight + Sound Conference: The Prolight + Sound conference programme with industry experts offers insights into current trends and developments. Topics include training, legal requirements and the use of innovative event technology. As part of the I-ESC, experts will discuss event safety and current event topics.
• Manufacturers’ Forum: Exhibitors present their latest solutions and applications here. The Main Stage offers an exciting programme of talks by industry experts.
• Camera & Broadcast: The new Image Creation Hub is the meeting point for television cameramen and showcases innovations in moving image production.
• Audio & Studio: Experience the latest audio technology in one hall. The focus is on live sound reinforcement, fixed installations and studio production.
• Theatre & Light: The latest products and technologies for theatre and stage will be presented by leading industry players.
• Sustainability & Green: Prolight + Sound promotes the sustainable use of natural resources in the event industry.
• Campus & Career: The focus is on talent and young talent in the industry with a job exchange, start-up area and career centre.
• Awards: Important industry awards are presented at evening events, such as the Sinus – Systems Integration Award and the “Opus – German Stage Award” for creative and innovative use of technology.