The MPI Foundation unveiled first-of-its-kind research on the Future of Meetings, October 8, at IMEX America in Las Vegas.

The insights were culled from in-depth interviews with leading thinkers on future trends, economists and experts in the fields of science, population, technology, digital media, business, policy and tourism. The trends they identified have been considered within meeting design, content, communication and distribution. The research will provide meetings and events professionals with the tools they need to achieve success in a rapidly evolving industry.

“The Future of Meetings research initiative focuses on emerging issues facing the industry and cutting-edge information impacting the community,” said Cindy D’Aoust, COO and Interim CEO for MPI. “This is absolutely the kind of intelligence meetings and events professionals need at their disposal in order to thrive.”

The MPI Foundation enlisted researchers at the International Centre for Research in Events, Tourism and Hospitality at Leeds Metropolitan University in the U.K. for the initiative. The report covers a broad range of issues facing the industry and offers insights on expected demographic shifts in the workplace, upcoming drivers of change and the impact of virtual and online connections on in-person events.

“There is no question this research will have far-reaching implications for the meetings and events sector,” said Greg Van Dyke, senior vice president of global sales and marketing for PSAV Presentation Services, and an investment donor of the study. “It will help every one of us understand coming changes in the industry and empower us to respond strategically.”

Following the Future of Meetings panel at IMEX America, the MPI Foundation will release a series of related research papers leading up to MPI’s European Meetings & Events Conference (EMEC 2013) in Montreux, Switzerland. At EMEC, a complete summary of the findings will be presented in conjunction with the launch of a comprehensive Future of Meetings toolkit.

The Future of Meetings Thought Leadership research initiative is made possible with support from PSAV Presentation Services, Jumeirah Hotels & Resorts and Omni Hotels & Resorts.