A leading industry publication recently advised event organisers to ask the following questions when deciding on a conference event or venue. We thought we’d give you the answers without you having to ask:
How accessible is the venue?
Making it easy for the delegates to attend is a top priority when deciding on a venue. You must make sure that the venue can be reached by public transportation.
The CSIR ICC is as accessible as it gets! Located in the junction of the major Gauteng highways and on the Gautrain route the CSIR ICC is easy to access from any direction and only a train and bus ride from the airport (OR Tambo). The Centre’s location outside of the city centre ensures that, no matter from which direction you approach the Centre you are always travelling against heavy traffic!
Does the venue offer a complete conference package?
Affordability is a major factor when choosing a venue. Complete meeting packages a a great way to save.
At the CSIR ICC there are no hidden costs. You will not be billed extra for staff, equipment, etc. after the fact. Our conference venues include AV equipment and we even throw in additional services such as free WiFi, administrative assistance, a business centre, VIP facilities and the like to ensure that you really get bang for your buck and no nasty surprises!
How big is space available?
The larger the property, the more the event planner has to work with. At a large venue, breakaway sessions can be added to the event’s programme.
With 11 flexible main venues plus additional spaces for extra’s like organisor’s offices, storage, first aid rooms, media booths, interpreters booths, a full VIP Suite and the like the options at the CSIR ICC are endless. Many of our spaces are surprisingly novel such as our outdoor areas and can be used to enhance your delegates’ experience and keep them fresh and engaged.
What are the venue’s WI-FI capabilities?
With the increase of ownership of smart devices, it is important to ensure that the delegates are connected at all times.
From the beginning at the CSIR ICC we realised how important connectivity is. We have offered free wireless connection throughout our facilities for all delegates for years now and are experienced at ensuring that this is a pain-free experience for users, no codes, no passwords and no restrictions!
Is there AV on-site?
Having to hire AV companies may be an extra cost, but using the venue’s own AV technician help one stay within budget.
With our own skilled team of Audio Visual Technicians and a full Technical Services department we provide a seamless audio visual and technical service, at no additional cost, for standard conference requirements. When it comes to production AV our experienced staff work with you and selected suppliers to ensure that you get what you need at a reasonable cost. A well-equipped technical backbone installed in our building and state of the art base equipment ensure that your costs in this regard are kept to a minimal.
Is the kitchen able to cater for delegate’s various dietary requirements?
With South Africa’s melting pot of cultures, it is always important to make sure that we are able to cater for various dietary demands.
Having catered for international events for over 35 years the CSIR ICC is well versed in a large variety of dietary requirements. Requirements for medical, religious or other reasons are catered for with care and attention to providing the same standard of cuisine as is served to all other delegates.
Do breaks dictate the event programme?
If your event needs flexibility, make sure the venue is able to provide all-day refreshment stations.
At the CSIR ICC we work around your program and we are always prepared to accommodate changes. We pride ourselves on planning well together with you, focussing on helping you achieve your objectives and proactively anticipating your requirements as your event progresses.
What is the distance from the venue to the delegates’ accommodation?
A successful event involves having the learning and living in the same area.
The CSIR ICC has a variety of accommodation options suited to meet the needs of different types of groups. The City Lodge Lynnwood situated ‘just down the drag’ is located in a trendy and inspiringly modern and fresh complex which provides a refreshing environment for delegates after a long day of knowledge sharing. Other options include accommodation in a country setting or at a lodge where game viewing forms part of the experience. The variety of options conveniently located close by ensures that your delegates are kept delighted and inspired throughout your event!
What are the distractions in the venue?
Various venues have direct access to recreational facilities such as casinos and shopping centres, which may reduce delegate attendance after registration.
The only distractions to be found at the CSIR ICC are the large variety of beautiful birds or the small mammals such as Duiker (buck) and Dassies one might encounter on the grounds in the early mornings or evenings. Although located in the city the Centre is situated in natural bush and the beautiful surroundings serve to motivate delegates rather than distract them.
Who will be the main point of contact?
Speaking to one specific person ensures a better line of communication.
From your initial contact with the CSIR ICC until long after your event is over you will deal with one contact person – your dedicated and experienced Event Coordinator. Each event is assigned an Event Coordinator who will assist you with all aspects of your event, coordinate our internal services and any other external services you may require, she will be with you from first quotation until after your invoice is settled and this way we ensure you continuity and peace of mind.