There is no substitute for experience ... ...

when it comes to planning, developing and operating a successful Meeting, Conference or Incentive programme. With a track record spanning 25 years, Barton Hill Travel can be relied upon to meet the most exacting specifications - in London, the United Kingdom, Europe and beyond. Original thinking, a real commitment to budgetary requirements and a clear understanding of the expectations of each programme are all part of the Barton Hill ethic.

The Key to Success

We believe that there are a number of key issues to be analysed, discussed and resolved before more detailed incentive and conference planning can begin:

Reality & Expectations
Not everyone can afford, or wishes to use 5 star hotels and resorts, dining and activities, but it is fundamental to the overall programme success, that the expectations of the client company and participants are understood from the start. We like to discuss the programme objectives with the budget, so that a basic structure can be created at the outset which fulfils the company objectives. We can then work on the inclusions and activities to challenge and stimulate the participants. We like to know their age and interests, where they have travelled in the past, and the rationale behind previous motivational programmes. Are they managers, sales people, technicians, are they being rewarded for prior performance, or being motivated to achieve greater things. Are they generally active or passive participants - if the latter, how can we most effectively provide the stimulus to getting the best from them. These questions, and many other, should be discussed and agreed before the next step is taken.

Strategy & Planning
Once the objectives have been set within the agreed parameters we can then look at how we can achieve the targets set by the client. The strategy may be tiered, performance-based rewards, or it may be that a unique destination is the catalyst. Should business meetings be included or should participants be allowed to choose their recreational activities without formal business inclusions? The agreement over key strategic issues can be time consuming but is very necessary to ensure that results and rewards generated by the programme match the requirement of the client company. Every inclusion should have a purpose, which although it may not be obvious to participants, meets the strategic needs of the organisation. Planning in the true sense involves meticulous attention to detail, providing alternatives if things don't go exactly right, be it airport delays, inclement weather, or a whole range of improbables which can derail the best made plans. We expect the unexpected, anticipate change and react positively. And then we fine tune the programme to minimise the possibility of unforeseen circumstances proving detrimental to the success of the programme.

Execution and Communication
We've set up the programme to achieve the required objectives, within budget, and the strategy is agreed. Now it's time for action and you will find that everyone involved in the operation of a Barton Hill Incentive or Conference programme knows precisely what is expected of them. Nothing is left to chance, and, most importantly, the left hand knows what the right hand is doing. Wherever you are in Europe, professional multi-lingual assistance is either on site or a telephone call away. Comprehensive notes are always provided for the Programme Director, down to the last detail. What's more, the notes are provided well in advance so that any questions can be resolved prior to arrival. First class communication starts with the first email or fax. Every question is answered - promptly. Quotations are provided when they are needed and are fully detailed and descriptive. But good communication doesn't stop once the Conference or Incentive begins. On site communication is vitally important and this continues right through to the final billing and accounting details.

Timing
Isn't it time to try a small, personalised company. A company that is large enough to cope with the most prestigious client, but small enough to care about every single programme they operate. You won't be disappointed.