subject: Exhibition Training: Developing Your Exhibition Stand Design [print this page] As you register for the exhibition, its organisers ought to provide you with a floor-plan or site map that shows not only spaces and configurations but also prices. Prices typically are set in dollars per square foot, but you may have options and add-onsrisers, back walls, full enclosures, and overhead space. Naturally, you have greatest latitude with a wide-open space, because it allows you to imprint your style without impediment. Study the floor plan, look for obstacles like pillars, stairwells, and emergency exits. Remember that, if you stick your display in the middle of a long run of similar displays, your exhibit will become just another piece of a big blur in visitors minds. Look for a corner or a place close to the end of an exhibit aisle.
Once you have selected the best available space, design its use with two basic principles in minddistinction and engagement. How will you differentiate your exhibit space from all the others in the show? How can you use colour, texture, depth, height, and graphics to rivet visitors attention? Moreover, once you have viewers attention, how can you engage them with your products and services? How can you use technology, animation, and demonstration to make visitors completely comfortable with your products? If you use your space wisely, your exhibition stands, display banners, and pop-up displays will surround and engulf your visitors as if you have transported them out of the exhibition and into your distinctive domain.
First-time exhibitors and long-distance travellers may not enjoy the luxury of display banners and pop-up displays, but the event organiser can help you make up for these deficiencies Organisers generally can provide one-, two-, or three-sided back walls, and they usually will carpet your space, often adding a fascia header to make the space appear completely finished. If you take advantage of these features, plan your exhibition stands and roller banner stands accordingly. Your space inevitably will give you access to electric power, but you probably will need surge protectors to increase the number of available outlets. Use power not only to run your computer or netbook displays, but also to adjust the lighting in your space, creating a mood that complements your message.
