Sample Trip Report

MEMORANDUM TO: P. Smith, Director of Corporate Relations FROM: J. Rose SUBJECT: Trip Report: Strategies for a Successful Business Continuity Program DATE: December 1, 2009 In November 26, 2009 I visited conference. This conference was hosted by Disaster Recovery Journal and was held at Sheraton San Diego Hotel and Marina in San Diego, CA. The conference theme was “Strategies for a Successful Business Continuity Program.” The focus is on all aspects of business continuity, including data processing, IT, risk analysis, communications, crisis planning, awareness training, certification, industry regulations and much more. The conference is structured into three and one-half days of sessions, with group events on two evenings. During the conference, attendees are able to choose from general sessions, workshops and breakout sessions. A mock exercise session is also an option. A concurrent exhibition is held onsite during the conference, allowing opportunities to visit with booth personnel and investigate new products and services. All conference material is included in the conference fee, as are six meals, refreshment breaks and two hospitalities. [Why Did I Choose To Attend?] This conference is the largest dedicated to business continuity, attracting hundreds of planners from around the world. The conference has an excellent reputation for providing information at the lowest cost in the industry. The networking opportunities appealed to me, as did the opportunity to learn from some of the industry’s best. I was particularly interested in sessions on < insert customized list here > since they directly relate to < insert aspects of your job or projects here >. In addition to the conference sessions, the chance to network with other planners in similar situations was a very valuable experience. I was also able to interact with vendors in the exhibition hall at Fall World 2009. The opportunity to research new technologies and discuss current methods with service experts was very worthwhile and a cost-savings for my organization. [What Sessions Did I Find Most Valuable?] During the conference, I was able to attend numerous sessions. I was able to focus on topics that directly relate to my position at this organization and find solutions for ongoing projects. Sessions include: < Insert Name, Speaker and Subject > Provide a listing of what you learned in the session and how it will apply to your organization. List as many sessions as desired and included detailed descriptions of each one. If desired, photocopy session handouts and include with your trip report. [What Networking Events Were Beneficial?] While at Fall World 2009, I was able to attend two hospitalities and also participate in Roundtable Lunch Discussions. The first event was a welcome reception in the exhibit hall. This allowed the first opportunity to visit with vendors, speakers and other attendees. < List specific people, vendors or speakers you interacted with and the benefits of those discussions. > During Roundtable Lunch Discussions, I interacted with others in the < insert name (s) > industry. < Jack Stevenson … List any particular interactions that could help with projects at your organization > and/or < List any contacts you made that you will use in the future >. [Overall Summary of Conference Experience and Recommendations] I was very pleased with my conference attendance and felt it was well worth the registration fee and travel expenses. I gained valuable experience that can be implemented in our organization. In addition, I learned new methods that may help cut our future costs. The networking experience was very beneficial. I was able to speak with several industry experts who provided tips and useful information for my particular dilemmas and work projects. The conference was very organized and the speakers remained neutral, making the information extremely valuable. The exhibition hall provided a friendly, informative place to meet with vendors and view their products and services. The conference is worth visiting. Jack Stevenson should be used as consultant on various policy/ standard issues. In addition, the meals and refreshment breaks were extremely nice and allowed me to save on my travel budget. I was very pleased with all that I received at Fall World 2009 and hope to attend a future conference.