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How to Plan a Conference (12-Month Timeline, Formats & Production Checklist)

A practical guide from AMP Event Group—planning, production, and on-site execution under one roof.

How to Plan a Conference (Timeline, Formats & Production) | AMP Event Group

Where to Begin: How to Plan a Conference

Start with outcomes, audience, and budget. Define date range, destination criteria, and success metrics so every decision aligns with your goals.

  • Clarify goals & audience
  • Set budget & approval process
  • Pick a date range & destination criteria
  • Shortlist venues & space requirements
  • Draft a high‑level agenda & content tracks

Conference Planning Timeline (12‑Month Planner)

  • 12–9 months: Goals, budget, destination/venue sourcing, hold dates, keynote targets
  • 9–6 months: Contracts, agenda framework, sponsors/exhibitors, registration platform
  • 6–3 months: Production design, AV/scenic, run‑of‑show, speaker coaching, marketing
  • 3–1 months: Final schedules, staffing plan, showcall book, rehearsals, risk controls
  • Event week: Load‑in, cue‑to‑cue, on‑site ops, dashboards & comms, load‑out

What Is Event Production?

Event production is the technical and creative engine behind your program—staging, lighting, audio, visuals, and showcalling—so content lands with clarity and energy.

  • Run‑of‑show & cue scripting
  • Stage design & visual system
  • Audio, lighting, media playback
  • Speaker tech checks & rehearsals

Conference Formats: Panel vs. Roundtable

Panel discussion: moderated expert conversation for broad insights and contrasting viewpoints.

Roundtable discussion: smaller, participatory format prioritizing peer exchange and problem‑solving.

  • Write outcomes first; reverse‑engineer questions
  • Limit panelists (3–4) and time (30–40 mins)
  • Mix roles (customer, SME, operator) for perspective
  • Script openings/transitions; leave room for Q&A
  • Assign a strong moderator & timekeeper

Experiential Ideas That Boost Engagement

Layer interactive moments—lightweight, on‑brand experiences that deepen learning and community.

  • Hands‑on demo zones or “solution bars”
  • Immersive entry moments & photo ops
  • Guided roundtables with rotating topics

Planning a Convention vs. a Conference

Conventions add exhibit floors, sponsorship tiers, and traffic design. If you’re building a convention planning website, include:

  • Exhibitor kit, deadlines & floor plan
  • Speaker hub & content guidelines
  • Registration tiers & housing blocks
  • Wayfinding maps & accessibility info

Ready to Plan with Confidence?

Get a tailored plan, timeline, and production map in your first strategy session.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is event production?

What is event production?

Event production is the technical and creative execution—stage design, lighting, audio, visuals, and cueing—so your content lands clearly and memorably.

How do I begin planning a conference?

How do I begin planning a conference?

Define goals and audience, set a budget, choose a date range and destination criteria, shortlist venues, and draft a high‑level agenda. Then lock registration, sponsors, and production milestones.

How far in advance should I start planning?

How far in advance should I start planning?

For small programs, plan 2–6 months out. For large conferences or conventions, plan 6–12 months out to secure venues, partners, and talent.

What’s the difference between event planning and event management?

What’s the difference between event planning and event management?

Planning covers strategy, budget, venue, vendors, and agenda. Management is the live execution—staffing, cueing, risk control, and on‑site decision‑making.

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Don’t just take our word for it

Hear from some of our amazing customers

“Working with AMP Events was heaven-sent. They consulted us every step of the way to assist us from design to alternative cost saving options for AV requirements to stay within budget.”

Kelly Williams
Head of Design, Layers

“It was truly a pleasure working with the AMP Events team on the 2016 ENRS Annual Conference in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The team’s professionalism and ability to problem solve made our experience worry free. We look forward to working with them again.”

Eastern Nursing Research Society
Executive Director

“The President’s Reception is a meaningful event and AMP Events has helped us produce an incredible occasion to give thanks. Their professionalism while drafting up a quote through set up and tear down of the equipment is unparalleled. Thank you for helping us say thank you to our community.”

Gift of Life Family House
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