CMP Logistics & Operations — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is an event timeline (run of show)?
- A detailed minute-by-minute schedule of all event activities, technical cues, and logistics (Correct answer)
- A historical timeline of the event planning process
- A deadline for event registration
- A chronological list of past events hosted by the organization
Correct answer: A detailed minute-by-minute schedule of all event activities, technical cues, and logistics
A run of show documents every detail of event execution including session times, speaker introductions, AV cues, stage changes, and staff assignments.
Question 2: What is attrition in hotel contracts for meetings?
- A clause penalizing the planner if the actual room block usage falls below the minimum commitment (Correct answer)
- The natural wear and tear on meeting room furniture
- The gradual decrease in attendee engagement during long sessions
- Employee turnover within the planning team
Correct answer: A clause penalizing the planner if the actual room block usage falls below the minimum commitment
Hotel attrition clauses require meeting planners to fill a minimum percentage of their room block (typically 80-90%), with financial penalties for falling short.
Question 3: What is the purpose of a site inspection?
- To evaluate a potential venue's suitability by physically visiting and assessing facilities, services, and accessibility (Correct answer)
- To inspect the venue for building code violations
- To test the venue's fire alarm system
- To review the venue's financial statements
Correct answer: To evaluate a potential venue's suitability by physically visiting and assessing facilities, services, and accessibility
Site inspections allow planners to evaluate meeting spaces, sleeping rooms, food and beverage areas, AV capabilities, accessibility, and overall venue condition before committing.
Question 4: What factors determine meeting room setup capacity?
- Room dimensions, ceiling height, column placement, fire code regulations, and the chosen setup style (Correct answer)
- Only the number of chairs available
- The room's paint color and decor
- The preferences of the keynote speaker
Correct answer: Room dimensions, ceiling height, column placement, fire code regulations, and the chosen setup style
Meeting room capacity depends on physical dimensions, obstructions, fire code occupancy limits, and the chosen arrangement (theater, classroom, banquet, U-shape, etc.).
Question 5: What is force majeure in event contracts?
- A contract clause excusing performance when extraordinary events beyond control (natural disasters, pandemics) prevent fulfillment (Correct answer)
- A type of event entertainment featuring strong performers
- A mandatory security force at large events
- A French cuisine option for event catering
Correct answer: A contract clause excusing performance when extraordinary events beyond control (natural disasters, pandemics) prevent fulfillment
Force majeure clauses protect both parties when unforeseeable events (acts of God, war, pandemic, government actions) make contract performance impossible or impractical.
Question 6: What is a BEO (Banquet Event Order) review?
- A final detailed review of all event specifications with the venue before the event to ensure accuracy (Correct answer)
- A review of the event's entertainment options
- A financial review of banquet department revenue
- A post-event evaluation of food quality
Correct answer: A final detailed review of all event specifications with the venue before the event to ensure accuracy
The BEO review is a critical pre-event step where the planner and venue staff confirm every detail — menu, timing, setup, AV, staffing — to prevent execution errors.
CMP Logistics & Operations
What is an event timeline (run of show)?