Experience Events : A theoretical research and compilation of tools for a handbook developed for events associated with Intotalo, Kajaani

Abstract

This thesis was compiled around the idea that events should be more like experiences, and less like services. In this research, the idea of experiences is explored in theory alongside the theory of event planning to produce an introductory approach to experience events.

The research was compiled with the help of the main text source, The Experience Economy, and supported greatly with other key sources. The main aspect of this source is the 4 E’s; Entertainment, Educational, Esthetic, and Escapist, and they are used to assist in providing entertainment for all types of event audiences. The author compares their findings with the information compiled by one on one interviews with people who have worked with experience events in the past. In these interviews the author asks several questions about the flow of events in which the participants took part in producing, including whether or not the event went according to plan, and if anything could have been changed or different.

Putting the research to use is then explored by explaining the usage of various tools both new and old, and then compiling these tools into a handbook for the use and further exploration of Intotalo, Kajaani. These tools include both fundamental tools that are already in use in events, as well as new and digital tools in which event producers are beginning to adapt to in order to better the event planning process.

This thesis was written from the event professional perspective, and may assist event professionals in gaining a new insight to events and their ability to leave lasting memories with their guests. Event professionals are encouraged to explore the tools listed in the research, as well as explore other tools not listed in the research.