Q&A with the CEO & President of Media West, Inc.

It’s a rare opportunity to meet two leaders who share a unified and dynamic business philosophy. Mike Kuntz and Tricia Schneider, CEO and President of Media West, Inc., respectively, exemplify this synergy. Each oversees different facets of the business, yet they match perfectly when it comes to their core values and vision for the company.

“We both have a ferocious dedication to giving our best at every turn,” said Kuntz. “Over the years, we’ve translated this to our ‘Every. Single. Time’ philosophy which has become a successful formula for how we do business. It’s our actionable and powerful commitment to creativity and innovation, relationships, processes, and people.”

Schneider emphasized that this philosophy is “what inspires us to be the best at what we do every time—for every client, every outcome. We use this as our guiding principle to create profoundly memorable experiences for the long term and bring the WOW to all that we do.”

Learn more about Media West, Inc.’s approach to driving innovation in the industry with its new look!

Q: How long have you been in the industry?

A: With more than 55 years in the industry, we live and breathe creative productions and truly love what we do!

 

Q: What is your approach to working with clients?

A: From day one, we embraced a meticulous, high-touch approach to every detail and decision for every client. We put clients first, treat their business like our own and their teams like valued partners. We build long-lasting, trusted relationships to reach client goals while having fun along the way.

 

Q: How do you ensure project integrity and reliability?

A: Our word means everything. We act with integrity, pay attention to details, and bring projects on-time and on-budget; Every. Single. Time.

 

Q: What role does creativity play in your projects?

A: Creative thinking defines us. We’re at our absolute best in a brainstorm and bring creativity into every aspect of the project– it’s simply what we do best. It’s our job to elevate experiences for our clients, and therefore creativity is woven through all areas from planning and technology to impactful execution.

 

Q: How do you cater to different types of audiences?

A: The audience is king. We understand audiences of all types and sizes, and put their personal experience at the forefront. Whether in person or virtually, local or globally, we create memorable and long-lasting impact from the moment the audience interacts, walks in the door or logs onto our URL.

 

Q: What is your strategy for understanding client needs?

A: Our job is to listen, elevate and innovate. We listen intently to deliver high-impact strategy and creative genius to move our clients’ most important audiences.

 

Q: How do you handle changes and unexpected situations?

A: Flexibility is everything. We’re flexible as projects evolve, prepare for the unexpected, adapt to last-minute changes, and get it done (with a smile).

 

Q: What makes your projects stand out?

A: We like to say we bring the “Wow” to every experience. We break through the ordinary to wow our clients and their audiences from arrival to departure, and everywhere in between.

 

Q: What will see that’s new from Media West?

A: Current and prospective clients will see our refreshed company “look and feel” – from our proposals and email signatures to our dynamic website and logo. The new website makes it easier for clients to get a feel for who we are, what we stand for and how we can elevate their brand with strategic vision and creativity – Every. Single. Time.

What Goes on “Behind the Screens”

When a client asks us what type of “tech” we have, typically they’re searching for an answer that includes the best and most progressive equipment. Some of these “hot topic” technologies are, of course, AI and VR, and receive a lot of attention in the industry. Our approach at Media West is always to discern and operate the right technology and equipment based on client objectives, budget and scope. Figuring out what to use, when and why are the three most important questions.

In order to engineer a great show, here are our top 5 considerations when evaluating use of technology and equipment:

1. Video Diagrams are the Technology Roadmap

Video Diagrams are essential and efficient tools to map out what technology is being used and the plan for implementing that technology per event. This is the first step that event production companies and technicians need to provide clients to showcase how the pieces will come together. Typically, these diagrams are sent to the lead technicians to give direction but also gather their feedback. While many technicians work as freelancers, our approach at Media West is to maintain excellent relationships with our technicians that become familiar with how we work. They can be a great resource as well, given they often see new technology first.

2. Utilizing the E2 is the Gold Standard

The E2 still remains the gold standard, especially for Corporate Events. Using an E2 can is crucial to managing many media and audio sources and getting to multiple destinations (often with multi-resolutions). Controlled with a console, with a single operator managing the software, this is the true meaning of “behind the screens.” At Media West we often use an E2 with pre-recorded segments that are played back on other devices and “routed” to the desired destination. As an events industry that faced COVID-19, the prevalence of pre-recorded segments hit an all-time high. Despite the return of live events, pre-recorded segments continue to prove successful as a way to boost presenters, impact audience engagement and involve stakeholders despite geography.

3. Hologram’s Offer Intimate Experience

In the category of Virtual Reality, use of holograms have proven to have an immediate impact on event crowds – in particular with a smaller attendance. Some of the most innovative platforms like Proto offer a larger than life, interactive experience that gives audiences the feel like the presenter is in the room or at an exhibit booth. Used correctly with the right knowledge and technicians, it can have a very powerful and long-lasting effect.

4. Moving and “Intelligent” Lights Escalate Event Production

Lighting is arguably the most important element for a Corporate Event to emphasize a specific location or person, bring a new level of entertainment on stage and dramatize a message or theme. Moving lights, or intelligent moving lights or fixtures, can be programmed using a console or even a phone APP to aim a fixture, change color, move to music and set its intensity. When selecting an event production partner, ask about experience and precision in this area and ensure the technicians are fully looped in with event run-of-show to support and escalate the entire experience.

Lighting is arguably the most important element for a Corporate Event to emphasize a specific location or person, bring a new level of entertainment on stage and dramatize a message or theme.

5. Not Every Tech is Right For Every Event

When evaluating what type of technology or technician is needed, you need to understand the complexities of what different types of events require. Corporate meetings and entertainment are two very different entities and your production partner will help evaluate what’s needed such as A1, A2, V1, V2 and LD. All the details such as how many microphones are needed, how large the venue, and evaluating frequency with a venue’s system are all part of considerations. The LD, or Lighting Director, is generally the creative genius behind the console. Depending on the size and budget of the event, it’s their job to help the room come to life whether adding color by utilizing their high end fixtures or adding texture to the light which can make smooth surfaces look as if they have depth.

While there are many more aspects behind the scenes, the key to allowing your clients to shine are planning with video diagrams, choosing the right technologies to meet objectives, conducting thorough rehearsals and using the most experienced technicians. It’s what Media West refers to as what goes on “behind the screens.”

 

5 Ways to Maximize Venue Events

In thinking about why some event memories stick with you, many times it’s because of the venue itself. Venue events elicit an emotional and physical connection with audiences gathered together in a meaningful space, whether an arena, stadium, convention center or campus. To achieve this impact, event production specialists need to know the venue intimately, understand logistical and technical needs and prepare well in advance.

“Our job is to produce this emotional response,” said Tricia Schneider, President of Media West Events. “Preparedness, expertise and relationships with venues is the key to success – not just for that one event, but for repeat business.”

Here are Media West Events’ five successful strategies to maximize venue events:

1. 360 Client Review

It’s always good practice to do a full 360 review after every event to ensure the best client service, executional process, custom approach and success metrics. We recommend taking into account the historical relationship, client goals, and review what went well and what can be improved. While the event is fresh, this can help the team capture key learnings to apply to future events.

 

2. Six-Month Rule

Never underestimate the time needed for planning – from checking venue status and technical logistics to coordinating with operations teams. Planning at least six months in advance will save time and money. Make sure to consider specific timely elements such as if rigging is needed (which requires additional time for loading in) and if any extra staff or specialized technical gear is required. Adhering to a comprehensive planning schedule with ample lead-time will keep things running smoothly.

3. Tech Check

Technology is changing constantly year-to-year. For high quality production value, it’s imperative to have the necessary gear to support the audio/visual needs – from sound design, pyrotechnic, HD digital projection, high quality LED digital walls and custom lighting. At Media West, we’re dedicated to evaluating the right technology for the need versus just “selling” new technology that can often cost clients more.

“At Media West, we’re dedicated to evaluating the right technology for the need versus just ‘selling’ new technology that can often cost clients more.”

4. Venue Logistics

Oftentimes venues have multiple teams, and logistics can be complicated with many moving parts. Consistent communication to understand venue updates such as special upgrades, construction or accommodations will help the event production partner meet and exceed expectations. Actively engaging in discussions about the venue is a must for effective staging, lighting, scenic, sound and visual needs. Utilize expertise from companies that have stellar track- records and relationships.

5. Staff-Up Early

As the event calendar starts to bustle over, make sure to have your core team staffed up and your periphery team scheduled for heavy pulses. Establishing great relationships with technical personnel and crew members should be top priority. Having a dedicated extended team can help go the distance, especially considering repeat event opportunities.

Venue events are some of the most exciting events for clients, employees, teams, communities and fans. Look to create customized experiences with event production partners like Media West Events that can take your event to a new level. Every. Single. Time.

What’s Trending in Virtual Events

As live events have resurfaced, it’s created both an exciting return to socialization but also some new reluctance. Companies and employees have adopted new ways of working, and virtual events posed an upside to budget concerns, sustainable business practices and efficient ways of gathering. One thing is for sure, virtual events will remain a high priority in 2023.

Media West works with its clients and partners to provide important event trends and solutions for successful event production, planning and management. Here are some top virtual event trends we see in 2023:

Beyond a “One-Off”

A large event such as a sales meeting that takes place once per year is still a viable and important type of event that marks a milestone in the year. However, we should start to look at these types of events as more than a “one-off.” Expect use of smaller, more targeted mini events as offshoots of a main showcase. These will be more prevalent in planning a comprehensive event that can add more value with one-to-one interaction, catered messaging and unique call-to-action.

Newer Virtual Platforms

In the past, virtual events have done a decent job of connecting with people. Breakout rooms, while helpful, are not unlocking the full potential for human connection. We anticipate virtual capabilities to change in 2023 with improved platforms like vFairs that have made networking not only effortless and effective but also immersive. For example, vFairs offers fluid work spaces, virtual lounges, virtual exhibit halls, chat functions and gamification technology to motivate attendees and bring people together.

New Metric for Success

We work with clients whose goals vary from lead generation and networking to brand building and company engagement strategies. Whatever the case, looking at a new metric – Return on Emotion (ROE) – will be increasingly important for companies to focus on. Prioritize your event attendees. It’s their event. Our job is to host it and/or produce it as event planners and production specialists. When you place emphasis on the outcome of emotion, you’ll do your job of creating memorable and shareable experiences that will have a long-lasting effect.

“When you place emphasis on the outcome of emotion, you’ll do your job of creating memorable and shareable experiences that will have a long-lasting effect.”

Content Beyond the Stage

Events are big investments. Some take weeks, months, and even years to plan. It will be critical for event professionals to work together to understand the desired impact and create content opportunities long past the event is over. Some call this “content confetti” – a great descriptor to remind us all that our job is to extend and amplify our client’s message. For event production specialists like Media West, we look to curate, record and produce content that can be used beyond the stage and in other formats such as blog posts, audio clips, YouTube videos, and highlight reels, etc. When creative is used along with data capture (such as polls, networking, post recap data, etc.), this will keep the conversation and momentum going.

New & Emerging Technologies

We’ve been anxiously awaiting technologies like 3D, AR, and VR to open up more possibilities in event production. We expect to see more engaging product introductions, demos, immersive virtual tours, and a whole host of exciting interactive and experiential elements woven throughout corporate events. Event planners and production crews must align strategies to integrate new technology to stay ahead of the game. This will play a huge factor in audience engagement and response for virtual events.

Needless to say, virtual events are a vital component to the current marketing mix. Our main focus at Media West is guiding our clients through goal-setting with technology at the forefront to meet audience needs. Hoping for an outcome is not enough. Putting audience emotions first will set you up for success.

Corporate Sales Meetings Continue to Thrive

For many companies, the annual sales meeting remains the pinnacle event of the year from celebrating success and introducing news to providing professional development tools and creating access for networking opportunities.

While the pandemic has changed the game for the events industry as a whole, sales meetings have continued to thrive. “Sales meetings are so highly regarded because they ignite human connection and reinforce company values,” said Michael Kuntz, CEO of Media West Events. “Regardless of the event being virtual, in-person or hybrid, companies need highly experienced event production partners who can support these hallmark events.”

Here are Media West Events’ five considerations for producing the most effective and engaging corporate sales meetings:

1. Event Planning

The essential first stage in planning is to delve into goal setting. Understanding company culture, creative thematic and presenter ability is a good place to start. Having transparency where shortfalls exist can guide training and ideation. Collaborating and consulting on the client’s agenda, which is often already set, is critical to ensuring the right technology and tools can support the event and heighten engagement (i.e, allowing time for transitions and incorporating two-way communications).

2. Thematic Content

Without dynamic content, the audience can feel disconnected. Your event partner should be your strategic brand ambassador weaving key thematic elements and messages throughout every aspect of the production including all audio, visual and design elements. Using humor such as company “bloopers,” custom songs, video “shorts” and creative product launch ideas are a few ways to reinforce your message. Visual content is the most memorable and captivating.

“Your event partner should be your strategic brand ambassador weaving key thematic elements and messages throughout every aspect of the production including all audio, visual and design elements.”

 

3. Design Elements Bring Content to Life

Stage design, stage heights, color choice, lighting and sound brings the company’s message to life. Your event partner should walk you through what works best on the big screen, what technology works to broadcast out to virtual and hybrid audiences, what backgrounds and audio/visual technology will enhance the event. Presentation/graphic design custom content such as “show “openers” and unique networking spaces – help strengthen the event theme.

4. Production Value

Never underestimate the need for high quality production. Companies that want to “do it on their own,” can certainly manage. But, if you can’t see or hear the content, the meeting will not achieve its outcome. The goal should be “production quality” content that can be enjoyed in person or broadcasted out with the same success. The event can have the right elements, but if quality is poor, so will be the takeaway. Leave the audience with a long-lasting impression.

5. Surprise & Delight

Sometimes capturing attention has everything to do with the right meeting emcee, entertainment and/or keynote speaker. Finding presenters who can light up a room, keep the momentum and make content relatable are necessary for our hybrid world. Presentations should be shorter and more dynamic to keep the audience fully engaged. When incorporating virtual audiences, integration of “surprise and delight” elements go a long way – whether it’s a delivered gift box from the company or small rewards for participation. Live performances and outside experts will also inspire the audience and raise the bar.

Sales meetings have always been a much anticipated event for sales teams to come together. Event production partners can help you take your event to a new level. Look for expertise that can utilize newer technologies to help amplify your event and produce a stellar event experience.

Why Event Technology is Now a Non-Negotiable for In-Person Events

Michael Kuntz, CEO of Media West, Inc. was a featured panelist in vFairs DiscoverNext’s 2022 virtual conference exploring industry insights on the role of technology in the new era of events post-pandemic.

The session was designed to hear from panelists from leading corporations, universities and agencies on the shift in expectations for in-person events and demand for more tools to gain efficiencies, boost engagement and provide real-time analytics.

Despite different expertise areas, general consensus from the panel was that technology is not only helping with event management and production, but is also paving the way for new engagement strategies and outcomes. Kuntz pointed out that “hybrid events are here to stay,” and preparing for both virtual and live events concurrently will increase chances of success.

Among the top strategies for technology integration:

  1. User-friendly mobile and digital technology are imperative for networking, collaboration, polling, tracking metrics, and event flow (such as digital concierge boards for breakout rooms, floor plans and general sessions). Whether in-person or virtual, the technology makes it easier to customize experiences and push out on-demand content.
  2. Production can “make or break an event” to make attendees feel immersed, commented Kuntz. He stressed that understanding a client’s vision of what they want attendees to “feel” is the critical first step. Next step is pre-planning to ensure clients understand the process of how virtual and live events coincide and what technologies are needed to support their vision and objectives.
  3. Using a “2-shows-in-1” approach is critical to merging live and virtual events. Kuntz recommends having two separate crews to deliver the production value needed for that specific platform. Having an AV partner to help translate the process, “lingo” and equipment needed to integrate both audiences is essential.
  4. Production and use of audio visual technology has upped its game in attracting attendee interest, including high tech entry treatments, use of dynamic content, gamification, high touch pieces and LED installations.
  5. Panelists agreed that technology does, in fact, come at a cost. An experienced team that supports the technology is what is often overlooked when allocating budget and should be non-negotiable.
  6. Utilizing pre-production was universally agreed as one of the best uses of technology. “This allows clients to involve a national or global audience while integrating seamlessly into dynamic content of a live event,” said Kuntz. “Investing in AR and VR technology has also added a compelling experience for both virtual and live audiences.”

When asked by vFairs, the virtual event platform, what Media West sees as trending post-pandemic, Kuntz replied that live events are back but high-touch environments, shorter general sessions and hybrid models supported by separate crews are what’s working. “There’s expertise for the virtual side of things, and expertise for in-person. Having the capabilities to offer clients both within one offering [agency] and educating them on the process is where we’ve lent the most value.”

“There’s expertise for the virtual side of things, and expertise for in-person. Having the capabilities to offer clients both within one offering [agency] and educating them on the process is where we’ve lent the most value.”

 

The pandemic has changed the events industry in so many ways, and while many event planners and production companies had the capabilities, they’re now executing in more efficient, productive and engaging ways with the use of technology. One thing that’s for sure is that the events industry will continue to evolve along with the progression and advancement of technology.

Event Success Comes from Knowing Your Venue

The events industry is back in full force as restrictions have lifted from the Covid-19 pandemic and live events have returned. Venues ranging from hotels and convention centers to sports and entertainment stadiums are managing the influx of business and require event partners to be at their best.

With over 35 years in the event production and planning industry with key venue relationships and over 20+ years as the official partner to the Dallas Cowboys Football club (with nearly 250 events produced annually at AT&T Stadium and The Star in Frisco), Media West Events addresses five key areas essential to successful venue management:

Relationships

Understanding the unique business of your venue can make your business invaluable and secure its place as a preferred partner. This requires the ability to form trusted relationships with multi-faceted departments – from executive teams and event presentation teams to sponsorship teams and venue operations teams. With strong interpersonal connections and knowledge comes repeat business and mutual success!

Strong Internal Network

As a preferred vendor to any venue, it is likely you will also have your own network to call on for specialty services. For small to midsize companies, it is critical to form a network of partners you trust and share reciprocal opportunities. From gear, rigging, scenic, signage, creative backdrops, decor, furniture and staging, pull together the best team to support client objectives. Accountability is everything to forming a trusted network.

Labor Management

The events industry has changed in this post-pandemic era, and therefore, so has the labor management pool in staffing events. There has been a huge increase in business now that restrictions have been lifted on large gatherings and events, but also shortfalls in both finding and retaining labor. It is more important than ever to attract and secure “regulars” for ongoing work who can get to know your business, expectations and contribute to reaching your goals. Offering competitive pay helps in securing good people.

Provide Added-Value

Turn your knowledge of your venue into added value by offering new perspectives and the most current technologies. Whether it is an area you are in charge of or not, offer insight to your venue to aid in the success of the client – no matter if it positively impacts your business or the business of others. Who better to generate ideas than those who live and breathe the space.

Turn your knowledge of your venue into added value by offering new perspectives and the most current technologies.

Shared Business

The event production business relies on a lot of moving parts. Ensure your expertise area is 100% but make sure to look at the bigger picture of success for the client (and for the venue) which could mean sharing business or relinquishing business. This approach will take your business further with your clients as well as establish goodwill with partners. It is almost guaranteed for business to come back around (and then some) with a shared business mindset and practice.

At the end of the day, knowing your venue is how you successfully harness your team, talent, knowledge, and expertise to produce the best and long-lasting impact for the venue fans, guests and attendees.

Planning Starts Early for Graduation Ceremonies

While most people think of graduations starting in Springtime, those in the event planning and production industry have been planning as far out as several years to a few months lead time. At Media West, we’re gearing up for graduation season NOW. From RFPs and CAD drawings to customizing content and design, here’s our top five key considerations for graduation/convocation planning:

Wearing Your Client Hat (or Cap)

There are usually many participants involved in planning graduation ceremonies – from special events coordinators to faculty or departmental heads. We often hear that above all, school spirit and uniting the school community is a top priority. Therefore, it’s critical to be a brand ambassador for your client and bring their brand to life in all aspects from creative design, logo creation and staging to live web streaming. The goal is bringing students, family, friends, faculty, alumni and the community together.

Managing Your Timeline

The first step is to plot all elements required, allocate budgets, and prepare for custom elements needed – from design and staging to technology format. Knowing if you need to prep a speaker in a remote location for a pre-taped segment or a live, two-way communication for audience interaction is critical to save efficiencies in the long run and increase engagement from attendees.

Know Your Venue

A huge advantage as an event producer is knowing your venue – relationships and experience go a long way in managing vendors, staff hiring, set-up/strike, seating, and staging logistics. With Covid-19, a whole new set of requirements forced the industry to incorporate social distancing and improved safety protocols. Understanding the venue’s ins-and-outs can help spark creative production ideas and special touches to enhance the graduation.

The Right Team

Make sure you get what you need versus a one-size-fits-all approach. You don’t want to pay for manpower you don’t need, or technology you don’t use. Look for the right tailored proposal that fits your budget and objectives. Seek out recommendations to ensure the experience in graduation or large-scale events speak to your needs. Look for companies that specialize in not only planning, but also high-quality production.

Make sure you get what you need versus a one-size-fits-all approach.

Elevate Experiences

Make sure that every detail. Consider natural light, sunsets and fireworks displays in an outdoor location. Look for stunning additions like laser shows, band concerts or even a virtual pledge allegiance in an indoor venue or stadium. Sound, lighting, live-feeds switching, and visual elevates the graduation effects can amplify that school spirit and leave a lasting impression.

Remember, events that celebrate such important milestones are revered in our hearts and minds forever. Every detail counts in planning such a meaningful event.