The explosion in popularity of OpenAI’s ChatGPT (which stands for Generative Pre-trained Transformer) has pushed the AI-based chatbot platform into the mainstream of meeting planning. Though reactions to the program vary, there’s no doubt the technology is at the forefront of the future. Willis Turner is gung ho for the new technology as a tool to streamline business processes and spark creativity. Turner wears many hats, including writer, speaker, instructor, certified planner, founder of Virtual Memorial Gatherings, and president and CEO of the nonprofit association Sales & Marketing Executives International. We spoke with Turner, author of The Power of ChatGPT: How to Put ChatGPT to Work for You, to find out how the platform can save professional planners time, effort, and money.
What was your personal introduction to ChatGPT?
I heard about ChatGPT through a friend on social media, and I was immediately intrigued by the idea of using generative AI to streamline my events process. So, in December 2022, I decided to give ChatGPT a try. My first use was very general. After getting familiar with the platform, I quickly understood its potential to automate processes and free up my time. I was amazed at how quickly it could parse information and generate results.
How do you think the tool will change the meetings and events industry?
I truly believe ChatGPT will revolutionize the meeting and events industry by reducing the need for human intervention in routine tasks. This will allow event personnel to focus on more high-priority opportunities, such as interacting with speakers, attendees, and other staff.
ChatGPT’s AI-driven algorithms are able to quickly identify relevant trends and patterns in large data sets, allowing meeting planners to make more informed decisions on which topics they should focus on. With ChatGPT, users can easily compare different venues and determine which ones offer the best value for their company. Additionally, the platform’s data analysis capabilities allow meeting planners to track changes in the industry over time so they can be proactive in determining which topics and venues will offer the greatest return on investment.
ChatGPT also offers a range of enhanced features, such as automated scheduling, task management, budgeting, and creating interactive surveys for feedback gathering. This helps meeting planners save time and resources by automating mundane tasks while providing them with the data and insights they need to make smarter decisions.
Since its release in November, how have you seen ChatGPT used in the industry?
Since ChatGPT is still relatively new, I’ve seen it used in a variety of ways so far. For example, using it to manage agendas and provide meeting attendees with real-time answers to frequently asked questions. It’s also being utilized to assist attendees at meetings at various venues by providing real-time directions to upcoming sessions.
For those who are tasked with conducting research on the viability of meeting topics or venues, ChatGPT is being tapped for compiling research for feedback on popular destinations and trending topics and to report on online reviews for venues. It is also used to generate original content, such as agendas and summaries of meetings, and for sharing with colleagues who work remotely.
Are there any negatives to using ChatGPT?
While ChatGPT has many great benefits, it does have some drawbacks, as well. For example, if used improperly, miscommunications can occur, or incorrect information can be generated. To ensure the accuracy and efficient use of ChatGPT, human oversight is required to check the results before they are used in any capacity.
Overall, I’m very impressed with what ChatGPT can do and how it has affected the events industry so far. With the right oversight, it has a tremendous ability to streamline processes and optimize management. As more people become aware of its capabilities and learn how to use it properly, I am confident that we will continue to see even more innovation and success.
In the end, ChatGPT has already become an invaluable tool that I rely on for my events. Its convenience and accuracy make it a great addition to any meeting or event planning process. I’m excited to continue watching its development in 2023 and beyond.
