Has AI Jumped the Shark?

While the rush to embrace ChatGPT continues,  Shawn Cheng is throwing some cold water on the AI hype.

The Stand-Up July 25, 2024 by Miguel Neves View in browser Hi there,   What's the latest in event tech? Well, you may have heard of this thing called AI...   The AI buzz continues, with plenty of startups looking at innovative ways to disrupt the meetings industry including automating venue booking.   AI is also at the center of any significant acquisition or investment. Planned, a sourcing and booking platform with plenty of AI features just secured a $35 million round of funding, something of a novelty over the last year or so. In June, Cvent acquired Reposite, an AI-powered vendor and supplier-sourcing marketplace.   But not everyone is going all-guns-blazing into the depths of AI. Some are even questioning whether AI has already jumped the shark.   To explore this further, we spoke with event technologist Shawn Cheng on the latest episode of the Skift Meetings Podcast. He shared how his approach has changed and the reasoning behind it.   Read the full story on Skift Meetings Has AI Jumped the Shark? On the latest episode of the Skift Meetings Podcast, we consider whether the AI hype is finally settling down, at least in the meetings industry. We get the view of event technologist Shawn Cheng who explains how his approach has changed. NEW REPORT Reimagining Luxury Venues for Meetings and Events: New Strategies and Insights Sponsored by The Grand America Hotel    Increased financial constraints mean planners must figure out how to deliver VIP experiences and source high-quality venues on a tighter budget, with many now looking to high-end hotels in secondary destinations as an ideal solution. Download our latest report to explore the shifting concept of luxury in an evolving era of meetings and events. DOWNLOAD Planned Secures $35 Million in Funding, Hopper's CEO Joins Board Planned has secured a significant round of financing and added a travel industry heavyweight onto its board. Up next is expanding AI functionality and travel booking capabilities. Hubilo's Founder Hands Off CEO Title Vaibhav Jain's run at the helm of the company he co-founded in 2014 has ended. Former engineer and product manager Shailesh Hegde takes over. Are Your Meeting Contracts Really Protecting You? There was a time when contracts were written haphazardly, and deals were secured with a handshake. Those days are over. Today, the industry relies heavily on detailed written terms. Skift Meetings Forum We're gathering the meetings industry's brightest minds for our flagship event. Don't miss our one-day exclusive learning experience on September 17 in New York City.   Tickets are $695; complimentary VIP tickets are available for invited senior planners. Groupize Acquires The Vendry, Adding Supplier Marketplace to Meetings Management Offering The combined platform promises to be a new type of all-in-one offering combining meeting and travel management with venue and vendor sourcing. Four Ways to Take Meetings From Exhausting to Invigorating Explore simple ways to keep meeting attendees invigorated, engaged and on task that prioritize their physical and mental health. Stand Against Boycotts: Events Embrace Inclusion Amid Political Division What happens when a destination is committed to embracing DEI, but political leaders stand in the way? CALENDAR   "In Unity, We Thrive" is the theme of ASAE's 2024 Annual Meeting. This gathering of association leaders promises to help attendees navigate ever-evolving workplaces, missions, and members to transform challenges into opportunities. August 10-13: ASAE Annual in Cleveland, OH August 13-15: SISO Summer Conference in Philadelphia, PA August 21-22 IBTM Americas in Mexico City, Mexico Explore our full calendar here. 45+ Must-Ask Questions for a Successful Event Debrief Every event tells a story, from audience experiences to behind-the-scenes efforts. For a successful event debrief, examining both sides uncovers insights that can help shape future events and maximize the impact. 60+ Tactics to Drive More Attendees to Exhibition Booths Discover creative booth activation ideas, effective marketing strategies, and proven techniques to attract and engage attendees effortlessly. Boost your next event's success and turn visitors into valuable leads. 17 Interactive Entertainment Ideas For Large Crowds Today, with everyone constantly chasing their next Instagram-worthy moment, interactive entertainment is a must. It transforms good events into unforgettable experiences, forging connections and creating lasting memories. More From Skift Meetings All You Need to Know About Skift Meetings Forum The Biggest Stressors – and Must-Haves – for Senior Incentive Planners Why Australia Is Attracting Global Appeal Among Meeting Planners Created in partnership with Business Events Australia To ensure there are no pauses in our communication, please add our email address to your contacts: meetings@skift.com. Skift, 35 W 31st St., Frnt 1, New York, NY 10001, USA, (516) 399-0304 Manage preferences