You need to ask yourself three basic questions while designing and setting up a trade show booth:
- Who will build it?
- How expensive it’ll be?
- Will it serve its purpose fully?
The booth should have a good graphic and schematic to invite prospective clients. It must contain the right amount of storage and meeting areas based on the Company’s show needs. It must have dedicated stage and demo areas if it is important to your exhibiting success. Often people forget that its function is an important aspect. They think the only purpose the booth serves is to just sit there and look good. They forget there’s more to it than that.
- Real-World Research
There are several places where you can start the research process. The easiest way is to simply take a walk at the next show you plan to exhibit at and to make notes and take pictures. If you come across a booth which inspires you, stop and ask questions. Who designed it? How much did the booth cost? How old is it? Even if the questions remain unanswered, take your time and observe the booth staff. Are they giving away products? Do they have easy access to samples? Are they constantly going in and out of storage? Do they have a separate semi-private area to have a meeting with existing and prospective clients?
- Function is Extremely Crucial
It is important to talk to your designer about the various functional aspects that are important to you. The design is the most time-consuming portion when it comes to a new booth. If the design is not right, you may have to live with the result for years to come.
Also, if you have previous exhibition experience, you can determine the amount of storage and semi-private meeting areas that your company needs for a successful outcome. Most companies tend to expand their meeting areas as their company grows. Storage is just as important. It can be for personal items, such as bags, electronics, coats, briefcases, or anything else your company may need to get through the show or even a secure space available for valuables.
- 2D Graphic Design and 3D Booth Design
The difference between 2D graphic design and 3D booth design must be kept in mind when choosing a booth designer. The two disciplines are very different and both are essential in creating a first-class functional booth. They are mutually exclusive (2D Graphic designers don’t work on 3D models and vice versa)
The 3D designer keeps in mind the traffic flow, show dimension restraints, lines of sight and more. Their experience and skill in assembling a 3D design ensure that the final outcome meets your requirements.
Whether you are a newcomer or a seasoned veteran of world trade shows, these tips will aid you throughout the process of building your trade show booth and make it a success.
