What’s the difference between an event management company and a PCO (professional conference organiser)

Services and Specialisation

An event management company provides various services tailored to creating and executing successful events, including event planning, venue selection, vendor management, and on-site coordination. On the other hand, a professional conference organiser specialises in planning and managing conferences, seminars, and corporate meetings. Their services encompass logistical coordination, attendee registration, keynote speaker management, and audiovisual production. Both companies aim to alleviate the stress of event planning by offering expert guidance and execution throughout the entire process.

Event Management Companies

Event management companies offer end-to-end services, ranging from corporate gatherings to product launches, weddings, and more. Their expertise, honed through managing all aspects of an event, including budgeting, venue selection, supplier coordination, marketing, and on-site management, provides a comprehensive and reassuring approach. These companies are adept at handling various types of events and focus on delivering a seamless and unforgettable experience for attendees.

Professional Conference Organisers (PCOs)

On the other hand, PCOs specialise in the planning and executing of conferences, congresses, and symposiums. Their niche focus is on the complexities of organising large-scale professional gatherings, ensuring that your specific needs will be met. PCOs are well-versed in managing academic, scientific, or industry-specific conferences and are familiar with the intricacies of delegate management, abstract handling, venue selection, and liaising with keynote speakers and sponsors.

Key Differences

Professional Conference Organisers and Event Management Companies (EMCs) fulfil different roles within the event industry. PCOs specialise in handling logistical details. On the other hand, EMCs are more involved in organising a wide range of events. Understanding these roles is crucial for making informed decisions when seeking professional assistance for your event. 

Scope of Services

Event management companies handle a wide range of events, including corporate events, product launches, trade shows, and social events. They provide comprehensive services such as event planning, venue selection, logistics, marketing, and coordination.

On the other hand, PCOs’ services include delegate management, abstract handling, program development, sponsorship management, and on-site facilitation. PCOs are equipped to manage professional conferences' complexities and specific requirements, ensuring that everything runs smoothly and professionally.

Expertise and Depth of Knowledge

Event management companies boast versatility and adaptability due to their experience with different event types. Conversely, PCOs display a deep understanding of the nuances surrounding conference organisation, leveraging specialised knowledge to ensure the success of high-stakes professional gatherings.

Flexibility and Customisation

Event management companies often excel in providing flexible and customisable solutions to meet the unique requirements of different events. Their adaptability ensures that they can tailor their services to suit various themes, sizes, and objectives, ensuring that each event reflects the distinct vision of the client. Conversely, PCOs operate within the specific framework of professional conferences, where adherence to industry standards and academic protocols may limit the degree of customisation.

Technology Integration

Event management companies frequently embrace various technological tools and solutions to enhance multiple aspects of event planning and execution, including registration systems, event apps, and audience engagement platforms. In contrast, PCOs may emphasise specialised conference management software, abstract submission systems, and networking platforms tailored to the needs of professional conferences.

Risk Management and Contingency Planning

Given the different nature of events, event management companies and PCOs approach risk management differently. Event management companies are adept at identifying and mitigating risks across a diverse range of events, focusing on factors such as weather-related concerns, logistical challenges, and vendor issues. On the other hand, PCOs often navigate more industry-specific risks, such as academic program changes, regulatory compliance, and delegate satisfaction in professional conferences.

By understanding these nuances, individuals and organisations seeking event planning assistance can decide whether an event management company or a PCO is better suited to meet their needs. Both types of event organisers bring unique strengths to the table, and recognising these distinctions enables people to align themselves with the most suitable partner to ensure the success of their events. So, whatever you need, contact us today to see what we can do for you.

In the bustling landscape of event planning, the differences between event management companies and PCOs are crucial for making informed decisions. Whether you are orchestrating a corporate launch, a grand wedding, or a prestigious conference, understanding these entities' distinct specialisations and service offerings is key. By recognising their unique strengths, you can confidently align your event with the expertise that best suits your needs, ensuring a flawlessly executed and memorable occasion.