Developing a Tool to Evaluate the Benefits of Conferences
(A2026-133740)

AUTHORS

Leif Hem, NHH Norwegian School of Economics; Nina Marianne Iversen, BI Norwegian Business School; Carmel Foley, UTS; Deborah Edwards, UTS

ABSTRACT

Abstract Conferences are pivotal platforms for knowledge exchange, innovation, and societal progress, yet their broader benefits remain underexplored. Traditional evaluation frameworks emphasize tourism expenditure and delegate satisfaction, overlooking multidimensional impacts on science, industry, and social sustainability. This study advances the development of a comprehensive tool to measure these benefits by analysing data from 3,134 conference attendees across diverse sectors and regions. Using importance-performance analysis and exploratory factor analysis, two key constructs emerged: Science and Innovation; and Sustainability (social and environmental dimensions). Respondents considered scientific advancement, industry innovation, and attracting global talent very important, but conferences delivered less than expected. Sustainability aspects such as equity, diversity, and reducing carbon footprints were also valued but underperformed. Future research could operationalise these constructs into measurable indicators and validate them across conference types to inform evidence-based policy and enhance the transformative potential of conferences.