Beyond producing the event, we worked closely with HIMSS to formulate a robust health and safety plan. That included staying in close contact with our Vegas team, which ensured everyone was up to date on all local protocols and requirements. The team also incorporated best practices and key learnings from previous shows such as the importance of early and detailed communication.

HIMSS adopted a “Vaccination Required” approach for all attendees, exhibitors, and staff — a first for shows of this size in Vegas. Organizers announced the mandate more than six months prior to the show so everyone knew to plan accordingly. Transparent communication was also paramount — ongoing correspondence with attendees, exhibitors, and speakers, a Health and Safety Hub on the event site, and an informative video.

This “no exception” policy meant each person had to provide proof of vaccination to enter the HIMSS21 campus — status was validated through a two-step process involving digital apps like the CLEAR Health Pass, on-site validations from Safe Expo, and vaccination cards. HIMSS also provided an on-site Wellness Center where Eden Health offered complimentary COVID-19 rapid tests, biometric screenings, and PCR tests for return travel verification as well as anyone experiencing symptoms on site. One week prior to the show, HIMSS added onsite testing via Safe Expo as another layer of protection and service to attendees.

Another important element to enhance the attendee and exhibitor experience was designing an engaging expo hall in light of last-minute changes due to Delta. Our team managed the floor plan by using wider aisles and organized the flow to be lively yet comfortable for attendees to find and visit exhibitors.