Once again, meetings and events are in the headlines...this time, in Wayne, New Jersey. New Jersey credit union board members decided to combine education, with fun, on a cruise.
As I was in Training & Development for over 20 years, I appreciate how important "a conducive environment" is to effective learning. In addition, I've also participated in industry meetings on-board cruise ships. A "Meetings at Sea" offers:
--a nice environment to learning;
--teaming opportunities
--a captive audience; and
--the opportunity to disconnect from the real world in order to focus on learning
I would not disqualify the location, such as a cruise, as an opportunity for meetings, events and learning. However, the structure and expense must be in line with the organization's objectives and return on investment expectations.
In this case, the CEO, Joanne Lazzara, was the whistleblower as the board's expenses appear extensive according to Sarah Wallace's report.
http://abclocal.go.com/wabc/story?section=news/investigators&id=6819592
The story continues to highlight the importance of a solid Travel Policy and compliance.
In our organizations, let's ask:
- How detailed is your Travel policy?
- Does it include meetings and events?
- Does the policy encourage virtual meetings as a viable alternative?
- What happens when someone doesn't follow the policy? How do you know they haven't followed the policy?
- What are the consequences of not following the policy?
- Does it appear that some people abuse the policy while others follow it?
- What types of reports do you share with your corporate leaders on compliance and savings?
Most travel policies are lengthy -- with purpose.
If you are unsure how to answer the questions above and want to create a best-in-class T&E policy, contact me.
Debi Scholar, CMM, CMP, CTE, CTT
Thank you for visiting the T&E Plus Blog on expense management, travel management, business meetings, events, incentives, strategic meetings management, entertainment, virtual meetings, tickets, hotels, airlines, ground transportation, T&E policy, plus more...
Follow me on Twitter ...http://twitter.com/debi001
and on LinkedIN at http://www.linkedin.com/in/dscholar
Comments