It has been a year or more of economic challenges.  One thing is certain for the businesses that have emerged from this time of turmoil – that is, we have learned.  And for most of us the lessons have included how to work smarter and be more frugal.   

As an industry, we are leaving the damage control stage and entering reorganization mode.  And, in many cases, we are doing so with renewed values.  According to the MPI Business Barometer June, 2009 report, which can be found at http://www.mpiweb.org/Libraries/Forms/BusinessBarometer_June09_1.sflb.ashx 10% of meeting suppliers show an increase in business activity, primarily for 2010 and 2011.  And, 2% of planners and 4% of suppliers report they are now experiencing economic improvement.  This is the first good news since September, 2008. 

Many industry events and service offerings are aimed more at service and “feel good” themes, as opposed to the extravagance of years passed.  It’s possible that when we recover from this we will have learned to appreciate more and grumble less.