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1 Diamond	A rating of the American Automobile Association (AAA). “These establishments typically appeal to the budget-minded traveler. They provide essential, no-frills accommodations. They meet the basic requirements pertaining to comfort, cleanliness, and hospitality.”
1 Star	A Mobil Travel Guide Rating. “A Mobil One-Star Lodging Establishment is a limited service Hotel/Motel/Inn that is considered a clean, comfortable and reliable establishment.”
1/50	One for Fifty. Facility complimentary room policy: one complimentary room night for every fifty room nights picked up and paid for. While 1/50 was once the standard, the complimentary policies vary per hotel and/or event.
100% Star Billing	Requirement by artist that his/her name appear in a type style and size equal to or greater than other names in advertising and promotional materials and media.
110/60	Common term describing normally available current in North American Continent. The full expression is 110 volt/60 cycle.  Many European and South American areas have 220 volt/50 cycle power only.
2 Diamond	A rating of the American Automobile Association (AAA). “These establishments appeal to the traveler seeking more than the basic accommodations. There are modest enhancements to the overall physical attributes, design elements, and amenities of the facility typically at a moderate price.”
2 Star	A Mobil Travel Guide Rating. “A Mobil Two-Star Lodging Establishment is a Hotel/Resort/Inn that is considered a clean, comfortable and reliable establishment, but also has expanded amenities, such as a full-service restaurant on the property.”
20-Footer	A 20' by (usually) 10' exhibit space.  Similar terminology (a 30 footer, etc.) may be used.
24-Hour Hold	A term used to describe the type of reservation made on function space within a venue (hotel, convention center, etc.). An event organizer who has 24-hour hold on a space has exclusive use and access to that space for a period of 24-hours, usually 12:01 am – 12:00 pm.
24-Hour Power	When an exhibitor orders power to be left on in a booth/stand for 24 hours during run of the event; often required when there are refrigerators, fish tanks, or computers in booth/stand.
2-by-2 Slide	Piece of 35mm photographic film in a 2-by-2 inch (5-by-5 centimeter) cardboard, glass, or plastic mount. See SLIDE. See Also Slide
2-D Bar Code	A larger-than-average bar code that uses the PDF417 standard (the same used for e-stamps). Stores up to 1,800 characters in bar code on standard paper badge, which can then be used by exhibitors to get contact information from registrants.
3 Diamond	A rating of the American Automobile Association (AAA). “These establishments appeal to the traveler with comprehensive needs. Properties are multifaceted with a distinguished style, including marked upgrades in the quality of physical attributes, amenities, and level of comfort provided.”
3 Star	A Mobil Travel Guide Rating. “A Mobil Three-Star Lodging Establishment is a Hotel/Resort/Inn which is well-appointed, with a full-service restaurant and expanded amenities, such as, but not limited to: fitness center, golf course, tennis courts, 24-hour room service, and optional turndown service.”
3-Dimensional	3-D. A flat image having the effect of three dimensions.
3-Phase	Type of alternating current used in high powered electrical applications.
3-Wire	Term describing electrical cable with one continuous ground wire in addition to positive and negative wires.
4 Diamond	A rating of the American Automobile Association (AAA). “These establishments are upscale in all areas. Accommodations are progressively more refined and stylish. The physical attributes reflect an obvious enhanced level of quality throughout. The fundamental hallmarks at this level include an extensive array of amenities combined with a high degree of hospitality, service, and attention to detail.”
4 Star	A Mobil Travel Guide Rating. “Mobil Four-Star Lodging Establishment is a Hotel/Resort/Inn which provides a luxury experience with expanded amenities in a distinctive environment. Services may include, but are not limited to: automatic turndown service, 24 hour room service, and valet parking.”
4-Color Separation	Process of printing a full color image utilizing four colored screened patterns from which printing plates can be engraved.
4-Hour Call	Minimum work period for which union labor must be paid in special circumstances (generally, a minimum call is one hour.). Not to be confused with minimum charges to exhibitors applied by contractors that service events.
5 Diamond	A rating of the American Automobile Association (AAA). “These establishments reflect the characteristics of the ultimate in luxury and sophistication. Accommodations are first class. The physical attributes are extraordinary in every manner. The fundamental hallmarks at this level are to meticulously serve and exceed all guest expectations while maintaining an impeccable standard of excellence. Many personalized services and amenities enhance an unmatched level of comfort.”
5 Star	A Mobil Travel Guide Rating. “A Mobil Five-Star Lodging Establishment provides consistently superlative service in an exceptionally distinctive luxury environment with expanded services. Attention to detail is evident throughout the Hotel/Resort/Inn from the bed linens to staff uniforms.”
501c	A section of the IRS code that defines, and governs the actions of various types of tax-exempt organizations. For example, 501c(3) organizations are non-profit, educational, charitable and scientific organizations.
6 Box	An electrical outlet that will accommodate 6 plugs.  Sometimes called Sex Box. See DOG HOUSE. See Also Dog House
6-by-6 Rule	Audiovisual guidelines by which no transparency of slide should contain more than six words per line of text and no more than six lines of text.
a la Broche	Cooked on a skewer.  Can be beef, chicken or shrimp. See EN BROCHETTE. See Also SHISH KEBOB. See Also en Brochette , Shish Kebob
a la Carte	French term meaning "from the menu." Each item is individually priced. Used in tour literature to indicate a choice of dishes will be available.
a la Grecque	Prepared Greek style with tomatoes, garlic, black olives and parsley.
a la King	Cooked in white cream sauce with vegetables (e.g., Chicken à la King).
a la Meunière	(moonyare) Dredging, a technique that allows flour to form a thin, golden crust on sautéed or fried items, (e.g., Trout Meunière).
a la Mode	1) In the style of. 2) Ice cream on pie. 3) Mashed potatoes on beef.
a la Provencale	Prepared with garlic and olive oil.
a la Vapeur	Steamed.
A List	A catering department's steady, extra employees.  They are the first called to work when temporary help is needed.
A/C	Air Conditioning. See HVAC. See Also HVAC
A/V Contractor	Supplier of technical staff and audiovisual equipment (e.g. projectors, screens, sound systems, video, and staging).
A/V Request Form	Form given to speakers during the planning stages of an event to allow them to request the audiovisual equipment they will need for their presentations.
A/V Technician	An audiovisual professional who is responsible on-site for lighting, sound, video, staging or other similar elements of an event function.
A1	1) First class condition. 2) A name brand steak sauce.
A440	Designated international pitch to which pianos are tuned.
AA	1) Alcoholics Anonymous. 2) American Airlines.
AAA	American Automobile Association.
AAAE	American Association of Airport Executives.
AAF	American Academy of Florists
AAR	Against All Risks. A term often found in insurance policies and contracts.
AATTA	African-American Travel and Tourism Association
Above the Line Advertising	Traditional commission-paying media: press, TV, radio, cinema, outdoor; media handled by full-service agencies.
Absorption	Ability of a material to absorb sound energy and reduce sound intensity.
Absorption Coefficient	Efficiency of a material to absorb sound at a particular frequency (which relates to sound wave length and material thickness).
Abstract	1) Written summaries of speeches or papers, generally between 200-500 words.  See CALL FOR PAPERS. See Also CONFERENCE PAPERS. 2) Laser presentations, graphic designs or patterns that are not representational of concrete objects. 3) A brief statement of content. See Also Call for Papers , Conference Papers
Abstract Board	Usually rolling corkboards used for attaching copies of research papers for authors to discuss with participants.  See POSTER SESSION. See Also Poster Session
AC Cable	Any wire conductor, regardless of size or connection, that carries an alternating current.
AC Hum	Humming sound heard in an audio system, usually the result of a Ground Loop which is being amplified by the system.
Academic Conference/Seminar	See COLLOQUIUM. See Also Colloquium
Acceleration Clause	A provision sometimes used in contracts to accelerate deposit payment schedule or to demand full prepayment of master account in the event of a default or lack of credit by the organization. May also apply in other situations, such as assignments. Sometimes used in a hotel to accelerate deposit payment schedule or to demand full prepayment of master account in the event of a default by organization.
Accent Lighting	Directional lighting used to highlight a particular area or object to draw attention to that portion of the field of view.
Acceptance	A requirement for entering into a binding contract. If a contract proposal (offer) is made, it is accepted if the offeree signs the offer as submitted. If the offeree makes any changes to the offer before signing, it is a counter offer, not acceptance.
Accepted Practices Exchange	APEX. An initiative of the meetings, conventions & exhibitions industry managed by the Convention Industry Council (CIC). APEX develops and manages the implementation of accepted practices (voluntary standards) for the industry.
Access Panel	Removable panel or section of exhibit to permit access to lamps, projectors, mechanisms, etc.
Accessibility	1) Airline lift into and out of a destination. See Also LIFT. 2) Capable of being used by people with physical challenges and disabilities. This is an important aspect of the United States’ Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). See Also Lift
Accessorial Charges	Generally refers to air-freight shipments. Airfreight forwarders can provide many services generally not available from common carriers. In most cases, these charges are not included in the per-pound rate of the carriers. Services include, but are not limited to, inside pickups & deliveries, special pickups & deliveries (specific time of day), waiting time, etc.
Accident Report	A document prepared to record information including time, date, location, parties involved, witnesses, and nature or description of an incident. See INCIDENT REPORT. See Also Incident Report
Accommodation	1) Any seat, berth, room, or service provided and/or sold to a guest, attendee or passenger. 2) Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), a step taken to allow a person with a disability to participate in an event or employment.
Accompanying Person	Guest or spouse of an attendee.
Account Sheet	1) Form used to keep track of number of rooms sold and/or still available. See TALLY SHEET. 2) Designates equipment, materials and teaching aids used in sound and visual presentations. See Also Tally Sheet
Accreditation	Official authorization or approval; to provide with credentials;  to send (an envoy) with letters of authorization; to recognize or vouch for as conforming with a standard; to recognize a college as maintaining academic standards;  to consider or recognize as outstanding; approval given by various trade associations to a travel agency allowing the sale of tickets and other accommodations.
Accrual Accounting	1) An accounting method that enters income and expenses into the books at the time of contract versus when payment is received or expenses incurred (cash accounting). 2) A system in which revenue and expenses are accounted for as soon as they are committed.
Acetate	Film positive or negative from which silk screens are produced. Also, a family of plastics for light transmission and surface protection.
Acetone	Solvent and/or adhesive agent for bonding many plastic materials.
Acknowledgement	Written notice that a room reservation request has been received and is being processed.
ACME	Association for Convention Marketing Executives. A member of the Convention Industry Council.
ACOM	Association for Convention Operation Management. A member of the Convention Industry Council.
ACON	Air conditioned. See A/C. See Also HVAC. See Also A/C , HVAC
Acoustic Baffle	Absorptive board or sound barricade that can be placed around or between acoustic sources to provide sound isolation or deadening and reduce acoustic leakage between multiple microphones (e.g. in a recording studio or live musical performance stage set-up).
Acoustical Tile	Composition board made into squares and placed upon the ceiling or walls to reduce sound.
Acoustician	Specialist in the behavior and control of audio energy within an environment.
Acoustics	Study of the performance of sound energy. Also the way in which sound energy performs in a given space.
ACRA	American Car Rental Association.
Across the Board	Includes everything; inclusive.
Acrylic	The family of clear, color, and translucent thermoplastic resins such as Plexiglas or Lucite.
Acrylic Emulsion	A water-based latex made of acrylic polymer and used for coatings and/or impregnations.
Act of God	An extraordinary natural event such as extreme weather, flood, hurricanes, tornadoes, earthquake or similar natural disaster that cannot be reasonably foreseen or prevented over which a contracting party has no reasonable control, making performance of the contract illegal, impracticable or impossible, thus the parties have no legal responsibility to continue performance of the contract. See FORCE MAJEURE. See Also Force Majeure
Action Station	Chefs prepare foods to order and serve them fresh to guests.  Also called Performance Stations, or Exhibition Cooking.  Popular items for action stations include: pasta, grilled meat or shrimp, carved meats, sushi, crepes, omelets, flaming desserts, Caesar Salad, etc.
Active Crossover	An electronic device which filters and selectively amplifies frequencies, separating the frequencies into sections or bands, and routing them to outputs designed to drive power amplifiers and in turn, speakers. The frequencies filtered depend on the electrical value of the component parts in the circuits of the device, but not on the source or load impedances connected to the device, except in the case where the crossover is actually a passive crossover designed for insertion in the medium-level signal lines of an audio system rather than in speaker lines.
Active Language	The language being used by the speaker.
Actual Cash Value	ACV. Replacement cost of lost or damaged property less depreciation.
Actual Weight	Also known as gross shipping weight. Determined by (1) weighing a vehicle empty, (2) loading a shipment and returning the vehicle to the scale to obtain the weight, and (3) subtracting the two weights. Can also be obtained by individually weighing each piece of freight.
Ad Hoc Committee	Committee formed to deal with a specific issue to be resolved upon making its final report.
Ad Valorem Tax	Tax applied to an item according to the value of an item. See DUTY. See Also Duty
ADA	Americans with Disabilities Act. U.S. legislation passed in 1992 requiring public buildings (offices, hotels, restaurants, etc.) to make adjustments meeting minimum standards to make their facilities accessible to individuals with physical disabilities.
ADA Compliant	Ready to or disposed to perform in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Additional Insured	An individual or organization listed as covered by a primary insurance agreement.
Add-One	Any component of a package tour that is not included in the package price, but may be purchased as an added feature or to extend the length of the package. Tour options are purchased at additional cost.
Adjoining Rooms	Rooms with common walls, which do not have connecting doors.
Adjustable Standard	Vertical support that allows shelf bracket to be affixed at any point in the support.
Adlux	A black and white photo transparency.
ADME	Association of Destination Management Executives. A member of the Convention Industry Council.
Admission Card	Admission card confirming a booking and registration to an event. See CONGRESS CARD. See Also Congress Card
Admission Ticket	Ticket used for admission to an event.
Adult Learner	A student who is independently employed and usually pursuing education to attain a specific, practical goal.
Adult Staff-to-Child Ratio	The ratio of adults to children required during a childcare/youth program. Accepted ratios are 3:1 for infants, 4:1 for toddlers, 6:1 for children up to eight years old.
Advance Deposit	Amount of money paid to secure a room, facility or service in advance.
Advance Order	An order for goods and/or services ordered before the move-in date for an exhibition. Usually less expensive than a FLOOR ORDER. See Also Floor Order
Advance Rate	Fees associated with advance orders, which typically include discounts when paid in advance.
Advance Registration	Booking before an event takes places. Allows attendees to register for an event before it actually takes place. Done through mail, phone, internet or fax. See PRE-REGISTRATION. See Also Pre-Registration
Adventure Tour	A TOUR designed around an adventurous activity such as rafting, hiking or ballooning. See Also Tour
Advertising	Information about an event that the organizer pays to have printed or announced in various forms of media (e.g. press, TV, radio, cinema, outdoor).
Advertising Specialties	Promotional items which include a firm's name and/or marketing message.
Advisory Board	A group that offers advice or counsel to event organizer, event management, or other organization on strategic options such as conference content, exhibitor matters, contracting policies or other issues.
Advisory Capacity	A term indicating that a shipper's agent or representative is not empowered to make definitive decisions or adjustments without approval of the group or individual represented. See WITHOUT RESERVE. See Also Without Reserve
AED	Automated External Defibrillator. Device installed in many large public areas (e.g. airports, hotels, convention centers). Can be used by any individual to administer life-saving care to person experiencing a heart attack.
Affiliation	Union of a society, firm or political party with another, but without loss of identity.
Affinity Group	Group sharing common interest, usually people who are members of an organization.
Affixed Merchandise	Products fastened to a display.
Affreightment (Contract of)	An agreement between a shipping line (or similar carrier) and an importer or exporter in which cargo space is reserved on a vessel for a specified time and at a specified price. The importer/exporter is obligated to make payment whether or not the shipment is made.
Agenda	A list, outline or plan of items to be done or considered at an event or during a specific time block. May include time schedule.
Agent	1) Broadly, one who acts or has the power to act: more usually, one that acts as the representative of another. Most frequently in travel, a specific kind of agent such as a retail travel agent. 2) Person that obtains engagements for entertainers, is paid by the entertainers and has no contract for production responsibilities. 3) Person in a speaker bureau/agency that acts on behalf of the seller (speaker) or on behalf of the buyer (customer).
Agricultural Meeting	An event relating to the production of crops, meat, milk or eggs.
AH&LA	American Hotel and Lodging Association. A member of the Convention Industry Council.
Air Cargo	Any property carried, or to be carried, in an aircraft, excluding passenger baggage.
Air Consignment Note	A bill of lading issued by the airline that covers both domestic and international flights transporting goods to a specified destination. Technically, it is a non-negotiable instrument of air transport that serves as a receipt for the shipper, indicating that the carrier has accepted the goods listed therein and obligates itself to carry the consignment to the airport of destination according to specified conditions. A bill of lading that covers domestic and international flights transporting goods. See AIR WAYBILL. See Also BILL OF LADING, INLAND BILL OF LADING, OCEAN BILL OF LADING, THROUGH BILL OF LADING. See Also Air Waybill , Bill of Lading , Inland Bill of Lading , Ocean Bill of Lading , Through Bill of Lading
Air Express	Expedited airfreight, usually referring to overnight air.
Air Freight	Materials shipped via airplane.
Air Wall	Movable barrier that partitions a large area into smaller areas. May be sound resistant, but not necessarily sound proof. See DIVIDER. See Also MOVABLE WALL, PARTITION. See Also Divider , Movable Wall , Partition
Air Waybill	A bill of lading issued by the airline that covers both domestic and international flights transporting goods to a specified destination. Technically, it is a non-negotiable instrument of air transport that serves as a receipt for the shipper, indicating that the carrier has accepted the goods listed therein and obligates itself to carry the consignment to the airport of destination according to specified conditions. A bill of lading that covers domestic and international flights transporting goods. See AIR CONSIGNMENT NOTE. See Also BILL OF LADING, INLAND BILL OF LADING, OCEAN BILL OF LADING, THROUGH BILL OF LADING. See Also Air Consignment Note , Bill of Lading , Inland Bill of Lading , Ocean Bill of Lading , Through Bill of Lading
Airfreight Forwarder	An airfreight company that transports freight via scheduled airlines. Forwarders do not operate their own planes.
Airport Hotel	Hotel located near a major airport; usually does not have a lot of recreational facilities.
Air-Ride Suspension	Smoothest ride for fragile cargo, made possible by two to four air bags located at the rear axle of the trailer, tractor or fifth-wheel.
Aisle	1) Area between a booth/stand for audience traffic movement. 2) Space between sets of tables, chairs or a booth/stand to allow passage of attendees. See GANGWAY. See Also Gangway
Aisle Carpet	Carpet installed in aisles.
Aisle Sign	A sign, usually suspended, indicating aisle numbers or letters.
All Expense Tour	See INCLUSIVE TOUR. See Also Inclusive Tour
All Suite Hotel	See SUITE HOTEL. See Also Suite Hotel
All-Inclusive Tour	See INCLUSIVE TOUR. See Also Inclusive Tour
All-Risks Insurance	Insurance against loss of or damage to property arising from any fortuitous cause except those that are specifically excluded. An insurance contract which provides All-Risks Insurance is an All-Risks policy.
Alpha List	A list arranged in alphabetical order, such as definitions in a glossary or event attendees.
Alteration	A change made by the client after any part of the production process has begun. Usually billed as an extra charge.
Alternate Media	Alternatives to print materials (e.g. Braille, large print, etc.) provided to assist people with disabilities in achieving full participation.
Alternative Dispute Resolution	Method for resolving disputes without going to court.
Alumni Tour	A TOUR designed for those people who have previously traveled with a particular tour company. Also Called REUNION TOUR. See Also Tour
Amandine	Served with thinly sliced almonds, sautéed in butter.
Ambience	Distinctive acoustical characteristic of a room or acoustic space due to the many sound reflections in the space (e.g., rooms that are said to be acoustically “dead” lack ambience).
Ambient Light	1) Level of illumination from natural lighting sources already existing in an environment. 2) Uncontrolled and unintended illumination.
Amenity	Complimentary items in sleeping rooms such as writing supplies, bathrobes, fruit baskets, shower caps, shampoo and shoe shine mitt provided by facility for guests.
American Breakfast	A meal of fruits and/ or juices, cereal, eggs, meat, bakery goods and hot or cold beverages.
American Plan	AP. A type of hotel rate that includes the price of the room and all meals. Also Called FULL AMERICAN PLAN (FAP). See INCLUSIVE RATE. See Also BERMUDA PLAN, CONTINENTAL PLAN, DEMI-PENSION, EUROPEAN PLAN, MODIFIED AMERICAN PLAN. See Also Inclusive Rate , Bermuda Plan , Continental Plan , Demi-Pension , European Plan , Modified American Plan
American Reception	Stand-up social function with beverage and sufficient food to replace a main meal.
American Service	Food is plated in the kitchen and placed before the guest. Side dishes are used for bread and butter and salad. Food is served from the left, beverages from the right, and all items are removed from the right. This is generally the service used for banquets. See PLATED SERVICE. See Also Plated Service
Americans with Disabilities Act	ADA. U.S. legislation passed in 1992 requiring public buildings (offices, hotels, restaurants, etc.) to make adjustments meeting minimum standards to make their facilities accessible to individuals with physical disabilities.
AMMC	Alliance of Meeting Management Companies. A member of the Convention Industry Council.
Amorphic Lens	Special lens for projectors used to eliminate distortion in abnormally wide throws.
Amperage	An International System unit for the amount of electrical current transferred from one component to another.  This specification is often important when considering the amplifier loudspeaker interface. See AMPERE. See Also Ampere
Ampere	The standard measurement of current.
Amphitheater	Outdoor facility with a flat performance area surrounded by rising rows of seats or a grassy slope allowing the audience to view the performance. The seating area is usually a semi-circular shape or adapted to the surrounding landscape.
Amplification	Increase in signal quantity of either amplitude or power level.
Amplifier	Amp. 1) Device which increases the voltage and/or power level of signals fed through it. 2) Device enabling sound to be intensified.
Amplitude	Extreme range of a fluctuating quantity, as an alternating current, swing of a pendulum, etc., generally measured from the average or mean to the extreme. Also used to make reference to the overall volume of a signal.
AMS	Association Management Software
Analog	A method of conveying data electronically in relation to a television, radio or telephone signal by varying its frequency or amplitude.
Anamorphic Lens	Lens adapter designed to produce a wide screen image.
Anchor	An auger-type device used to secure the guy ropes of a tent to the ground, ranging in length from 30-48 inches with a helix of 4-8 inches in diameter.  Anchors hold better than stakes do in bare earth and sand. See STAKES. See Also Stakes
Ancillary Activities	All event-related support services within a facility that generate revenue.
Ancillary Center	Event facility that is typically part of a larger hospitality complex.
Andragogy	The art and science of helping adults learn as opposed to pedagogy, which is the science of helping children learn.
Androgogic Model	Knowles Theory. A theory that proposes that for adults to learn, the following must be addressed: adults need to know why they need to learn something; adults need to learn through experience; adults view learning as problem solving; adults only learn when the material is immediately relevant.
Angels on Horseback	Baked bacon-wrapped oysters.
Animation	A technique that creates an illusion of movement when used in rapid sequence.
Ann.	Announcer.
Anncr.	Announcer.
Anodizing	The process of preserving metal by adding a protective oxide film by an electrolytic process.
ANSI	American National Standards Institute. An organization responsible for fostering the development of and approving technology standards in the United States. www.ansi.org
Answer Print	The first positive print of a movie film made from the rough edited negative.
Anti-Discrimination Laws	Laws that protect individuals or groups from bias and discrimination on the basis of factors such as age, sex, religion, national origin or disability. Anti discrimination laws may be imposed on the local (e.g. city, county), state or federal level. Federal laws prohibit discrimination in any place of public accommodation. Anti-discrimination provisions are sometimes included in contracts to allow a party to the contract to cancel without liability in the event the other party or parties is found guilty of engaging in discriminatory practices.
Antidiversion Clause	See DESTINATION CONTROL STATEMENT. See Also Destination Control Statement
Antipasto	Italian appetizers that include olives, salami, peppers, marinated vegetable salads, sliced meats, cheeses and other similar foods.
Anti-Stat for Carpet	A spray that helps reduce static electricity in carpets.
Antistat Wax	A solution applied to plastics to minimize dust accumulation.
Antitrust Laws	Legislation designed to promote competition and prevent unfair practices that may lead to monopolies or suppression of competition.
Anvil Case	Reinforced molded plastic case, normally with foam cut-outs for transporting fragile materials.
AoD	Audio on Demand. Streaming Audio delivered via a network, available anytime, anywhere.
AP	American Plan. A type of hotel rate that includes the price of the room and all meals. Also Called FULL AMERICAN PLAN (FAP). See INCLUSIVE RATE. See Also BERMUDA PLAN, CONTINENTAL PLAN, DEMI-PENSION, EUROPEAN PLAN, MODIFIED AMERICAN PLAN. See Also Inclusive Rate , Bermuda Plan , Continental Plan , Demi-Pension , European Plan , Modified American Plan
Aperture Width/Height	Actual slide or film frame dimensions.
APEX	Accepted Practices Exchange. An initiative of the meetings, conventions & exhibitions industry managed by the Convention Industry Council (CIC). APEX develops and manages the implementation of accepted practices (voluntary standards) for the industry.
APEX Fare	Advance Purchase Excursion Fare (airline). Special fare at a lower rate.
Appellation	1) Designated wine growing areas governed by the rules and regulations of a country's federal local government body. Rules vary from country to country but are similar in their attempt to stimulate the production of quality wines. Regulations are established by the Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée (AOC) in France, the Denominazione di Origine Controllata (DOC) in Italy, the Denominaçao de Origem Controlada (DOC) in Portugal, the Denominación de Origen (DO) in Spain and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (BATF) in the United States. 2) Synonym for name.
Appetizer	Any small, bite-size food served before a meal to whet and excite the palate. Used synonymously with the term Hors d' Oeuvres, though this term more aptly describes finger food, whereas appetizer can also apply to a first course served at table.
Application Service Provider	ASP. A company that manages and distributes software-based solutions to customers across a wide area network from a central data center.  In essence, ASPs are a way for organizations to outsource some or almost all aspects of their information technology needs.
Application Sharing	A feature of many videoconferencing systems that allows two or more people to use the same software program, even if all do not have it on their computer or conferencing system.
Appliqué	Any item applied to fabric or other surfaces for the purpose of decor.
Appointed Entity	Airline ticket sales outlet, such as a travel agency, accredited by the International Air Transport Association (IATA).
Apprentice	An individual who works in exchange for the learning experience, often unpaid.
Apron	Part of a stage in front of the main curtain.
AQ	Any quantity.
Arbitrage	The process of buying foreign exchange, stocks, bonds, and other commodities in one market and immediately selling them in another market at higher prices.
Arbitration	Private dispute resolution process, often referred to as alternate dispute resolution, in which the parties agree to submit their dispute to an impartial third party for a decision. Depending on the type of arbitration, the arbitrator's decision may or may not be binding. Several organizations, including the American Arbitration Association and JAMS-Endispute, handle arbitration claims. Courts may require some disputes be submitted to arbitration instead of or prior to the formal trial process.
Arc Light	A light source providing high-intensity light utilizing a positive and negative metal rod (instead of a lightbulb) for large screens or long projection distances; also used in follow spotlights; replaced by xenon lamps in the 1980s.
Arch	A curved display ceiling that spans two points, such as a ceiling or entryway.
Architectural Cuisine	Menu items where food is stacked for height, such as endive boats filled with salad greens. See VERTICAL CUISINE. See Also Vertical Cuisine
Area Agreement	A union contract covering companies and unions that bargain on an area-wide basis.
Arena	Facility type featuring a large flat main floor surrounded by fixed seats in a sloping oval or modified oval shape, much steeper that the typical theater. Some are arranged in two or more tiers. Sight lines are nearly always designed for events the size of a hockey floor, circus, ice show, or basketball court.
Argon	An inert, colorless, odorless gas that creates a blue-green color inside a laser tube.
Armorply	A term for plywood or lumber with a metal veneer.
Arranged Environment	A learning environment with planned physical set-up and seating arrangements.
Arrival Manifest	An itemized list of anticipated dates and times of arrival of group members.
Arrival Notice	A document issued by railroads, airlines and maritime services identifying the shipment is sent to the consignee or their agent and informing consignee/agent of cargo’s arrival.
Arrival Pattern	Anticipated dates and times of arrival of group members.
Arrival Time	Time or approximate time guests plan to arrive at a facility.
Arrival/Departure Pattern	A description of arrival and departure activities of an event’s attendees. See MAJOR ARRIVAL. See Also MAJOR DEPARTURE, GROUP ARRIVALS/DEPARTURES. This information should be included in the specifications guide for an event. See Also Major Arrival , Major Departure , Group Arrivals/Departures
Art	Any materials (drawings, photographs, type) used in preparing camera-ready art. Also known as artwork.
Articles and By-laws	Rules adopted by an organization for managing its internal affairs.
As Directed	Based on time and at the direction of the customer.
ASAE	American Society of Association Executives.
ASCAP	American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers. A membership organization that represents individuals who hold the copyrights to music written in the United States and grants licensing agreements for the performance of that music.
ASCII	American Standard Code for Information Interchange. A code that assigns numbers to alphabetic, numeric and certain other characters. ASCII is the most common format for text files in computers and on the Internet.
Ash Stand	Stand which holds ashtrays. A receptacle for tobacco ashes; an ashtray; ash can.
Aside	A dramatic device in which an actor speaks directly to the audience while other individuals onstage supposedly do not hear him or her.
ASM	Assistant stage manager.
ASP	Application Service Provider. See Also Application Service Provider
Aspect Ratio	The ratio of image width to height; pertaining to audiovisual, video and slides.
Assembly	1) The process of erecting display component parts into a complete exhibit. 2) A general or formal meeting of an organization attended by representatives of its members for the purpose of deciding legislative direction, policy matters, the election of internal committees and approval of balance sheets, budgets, etc. Consequently, an assembly usually observes certain rules of procedure for its meetings; mostly prescribed in its Articles & By-laws. See Also Articles and By-laws
Assessment	1) The process used to evaluate a participant's skill level with respect to a set of materials or requirements. 2) A charge to a supplier(s) from a service entity such as Convention Bureau, Housing Bureau, etc. that is for a specific service such as convention center fees, busing, housing or other that is part of an event customer's agreement. This assessment is normally paid to the service provider directly by the supplier. Compare with REBATE. See Also Rebate
Asset	Something of value that is owned.
Assistant Lead Dispatcher	The onsite staff member second in command of the transportation system. Assists the lead dispatcher and fills in when the lead dispatcher is not on site. Normally the assistant lead dispatcher is assigned to the command center.
Association	An organized group of individuals and/or companies who band together to accomplish a common purpose, usually to provide for the needs of its members. Usually nonprofit. See TRADE ASSOCIATION. See Also Trade Association
Association Agreement	1) A union contract covering companies and unions that bargain on an area-wide basis. 2) A union contract negotiated by a group of employers through an employer's association with the union representing their employees.
Association Booth/Stand	An exhibit booth/stand at which an association provides information about its purpose and services to members and prospective members.
Association Meeting	An event initiated by an association. See ASSOCIATION. See Also Association
Association Staff	An individual who works for an association.
ASTA	American Society of Travel Agents.
ASTD	American Society for Training and Development.
Asynchronous Learning	Any learning event that is delivered after the original live event or where the interaction is delayed over time. Typically this is on-demand and can be to video-on-demand (VoD), audio-on-demand (AoD), correspondence courses, email messages, bulletin boards, etc.
At Liberty	Euphemism used by actors, consultants, and others for unemployed or available for work. Those who are unemployed.
At Sight	A phrase indicating that payment on a draft or other negotiable contract is due upon demand.
At Site	Location of event or exhibit.  See ON-SITE. See Also On-Site
ATA	Air Transport Association of America. A member of the Convention Industry Council.
ATA Carnet	An international customs document that permits duty-free and tax-free temporary import of goods for up to one year. It eliminates or reduces VAT charges, customs fees, and bond fees. The initials "ATA" are an acronym of the French and English words "Admission Temporaire/Temporary Admission." ATA Carnets cover commercial samples; professional equipment; and, goods for presentation or use at trade fairs, shows, exhibitions, etc. Items not covered are consumable or disposable goods, which will not be returned home.
At-a-Glance Program	Condensed, quick reference version of an event's program. See POCKET PROGRAM. See Also Pocket Program
ATC	Air Traffic Conference of America (a division of the Air Transport Association (ATA).
Athletic Meeting	An event that involves sports or athletic equipment. Athletes, guests or attendees may be in competition or demonstration.
Atmospheric	A term used to describe a lighting effect created by laser light projected through the air, often enhanced with theatrical fog; also known as aerial beams
Atmospherics	Use of color to create a mood in a room or exhibit.
Attendance	Total number of people at an event.
Attendee	An individual, registered for or participating in an event. Includes delegates, exhibitors, media, speakers, and guests.
Attendee Brochure	Direct mail piece sent to current and prospective attendees that promotes the benefits of attending a specific event.
Attendee Scope	Where attendees come from.  It is directly related to the spending characteristics of attendees who fall into each of these categories: INTERNATIONAL- Draws a national and international event audience; 15% or more of event delegates reside outside of event host country.  NATIONAL-Draws a national event audience; More than 40% of delegates reside outside of a 400 mile (640 km) radius of event city. REGIONAL-60% of delegates reside within a 400 mile (640 km) radius of event city; Delegates may reside in a multi-state area and/or a regionally homogenous international area. STATE/PROVINCE- More than 80% of delegates reside in event state/province (or event-sponsoring state/province when held in state/province other than home state/province; More than 20% of delegates reside outside a 50 mile (80 km) radius of event site; State/provincial audiences are less inclined to use air travel and local auto rental than regional audiences. LOCAL-80% of delegates reside within a 50 mile (80 km) of radius of event site; Local audiences typically do not require overnight accommodations.
Attenuate	To reduce. In audio parlance, to reduce the level of an electrical signal as with a volume control.
Attraction	A natural or man-made facility, location, or activity that offers items of specific interest.  An attraction can be a natural or scenic wonder (e.g. the Grand Canyon), a man-made theme park (e.g. Disneyland) ,a cultural or historic exhibition (e.g. World's Fair), or a wildlife/ecological park (e.g. zoo or aquarium).
Attrition	The difference between the actual number of sleeping rooms picked-up (or food-and-beverage covers or revenue projections) and the number or formulas agreed to in the terms of the facility’s contract. Usually there is an allowable shortfall before damages are assessed.
Attrition Clause	Contract wording that outlines potential damages or fees that a party may be required to pay in the event that it does not fulfill minimum commitments in the contract.
au Gratin	Foods sprinkled with crumbs and/or cheese and baked until browned
au Jus	Served with natural meat juices or gravy without thickening.
au Lait	With milk (e.g. café au lait).
Audience Count	The number of people in an audience. In a controlled situation, this number is most accurately found through ticket sales, turnstile counts, or established seating capacities.  In a non-controlled situation, estimates from law enforcement agencies, park and recreation departments, or other organizations involved in crowd control are usually reliable. See COVER. See Also HEAD COUNT. See Also Cover , Head Count
Audience Left and Right	Stage directions from the audience’s perspective. This is the opposite of STAGE LEFT AND RIGHT. See CAMERA LEFT AND RIGHT. See Also SCREEN LEFT AND RIGHT. See Also Stage Left and Right , Camera Left and Right , Screen Left and Right
Audience Polling	Computer application that enables voting and then collects and displays the results, simplifying decision-making among event participants.
Audio Frequency	Any frequency which humans hear, typically between a lower limit of about 12 hertz and an upper limit of about 20,000 hertz. This range of audio frequencies is also known as the “audio spectrum.”
Audio Monitor	1) Speaker for listening to the playback of tapes or records. 2) A loudspeaker used for listening to the  playback of tapes or records and by musicians to hear themselves or other musicians on stage. 3) Conference call.
Audioconference	A conference using only voice transmissions between two or more sites.
Audiovisual	A/V. Equipment, materials, and teaching aids used in sound and visual presentations, such as television monitors, video, sound equipment, etc.
Audiovisual Aids	Audio and visual support for events, usually taking the form of film, slides, overhead projection, flip charts, sound equipment and blackboards.
Audit	A methodical examination and review of records pertaining to an event. For instance, an independent verification of attendance figures submitted by an exhibition’s producers.
Audition	A tryout performance before producers, directors, casting directors or others for the purpose of obtaining a part in a production or a booking as a speaker.
Auditorium	Room for gathering an audience for speeches, concerts etc. Often used to name entire facilities, though properly applied only to the seated portion of the facility in which the audience is assembled. Typically a building named in this way will be an arena or theater class building.
Auditorium Lens	A projection lens used for long distances.
Auditorium Lights	See HOUSE LIGHTS. See Also House Lights
Auditorium Set-Up	Seating arrangement where chairs are arranged in rows facing head table, stage or speaker. Variations are semicircular and V-shaped. See THEATER SET-UP. See Also Theater Set-Up
Authorized Signatory	A person who is authorized to legally bind an individual or organization to a contract, to sign checks on behalf of an organization, or charge to an organization's master account.
Autograph Table	Traditionally, a table where a speaker autographs books after a speaking engagement. Many speakers currently use the term to mean the table at the back of the room from which they sell their products.
Automatic Advance	Feature on a slide projector which automatically inserts the next slide.
Auxiliary Aids and Services	1) Contracted services (e.g. stewards, technicians, interpreters, tour guides, etc.) that provide support for an event. 2) The use of adaptive equipment or assistance to ensure accessibility for people with disabilities.
Auxiliary Business	Business that is brought to the facility because of, or in conjunction with, an event. See IN CONJUNCTION WITH. See Also In Conjunction With
Auxiliary Supply	System for providing power, lighting, air conditioning, heating, catering and emergency battery systems.
Average Room Rate	1) Mathematical average of a series of sleeping room rates. 2) The total sleeping room revenue for a given period's occupied rooms divided by the number of rooms occupied for the same period. In this instance the average is commonly referred to as a hotel's Average Daily Rate (ADR).
Awards Banquet/Celebration	An event, usually formal, to honor outstanding performance.
Awning	A monopitch tent structure that is supported by a frame and is often foldable.
Axis	Imaginary center point.
B&B	1) Bed and Breakfast. 2) Brandy and Benedictine.
b/g	Background, as in background music.
B/P	Bills Payable.
B2B	Business-to-Business.
Baby Spot	1) Small spotlight in a booth/stand, usually 15 watt. 2) Small spotlight in the ceiling of function rooms used to highlight decor, such as centerpieces.
Babysitting Facilities	Arrangements for care of children during a short absence of the parents.
Back Drape	A drape, curtain or fabric panel that provides a soft, colorful background for a speaker. The audience's attention will be zeroed on the speaker with enhanced concentration and retention.
Back Light	1) A light source that illuminates any transparent or translucent material from behind.  2) A lighting instrument used behind and above a presenter to give more depth and better image when video taping or using image-magnification. 3) Lighting instrument used behind and above a presenter to give more depth and better image when video taping or using image-magnification.
Back of the House	A term used in hotels  to refer to areas for staff only, as opposed to the front of the house.
Back Projection	Image projected on the back surface of a screen, which is placed between the viewer and the projector. See REAR PROJECTION. See Also Rear Projection
Backbone	A permanently installed series of cable comprised of copper wire cable and/or fiber optic cable, utilized as the main thoroughfare in a building to transmit voice and data signals in or out of the facility.
Backdrop	Drapes, curtain, or fabric panels at the back of a stage, speaker’s table, or exhibit booth/stand.
Backline Equipment	Equipment required by musicians that is needed in order to perform at an engagement. This varies from artist to artist and often must be rented by the event organizer. Generally, it is everything a live band needs, such as amplifiers, apart from the musicians and their instruments.
Back-Lit Panels	Three-dimensional structure (or box) with lights placed behind a transparent image.
Backloader	Truck which loads from a rear-opening door.
Back-of-Room Sales	The act and process of selling books, tapes, and other products at the back of the room, usually immediately after a speech.
Backstage	Portion of the theater behind the main curtain including stage, dressing rooms, and wings.
Back-to-Back	Travel or conference programs operating on a continuous or chronologically sequential basis so that one group arrives as another group departs or shortly thereafter.
Back-to-Back Booth/Stand	The standard exhibit configuration where booths/stands are placed in rows, back to back.
Back-Up Facility	Substitute facility that will serve as an as a viable alternative if the original facility become unavailable or inadequate for its intended purpose.
Backwall	1) The back wall (either hardwall or draped) of a perimeter, booth/stand/exhibit, or inline. 2) Panel arrangement at rear of booth/stand area.
Backwall Booth/Stand	An exhibit that is back to back with another exhibit or against a building wall. See PERIMETER BOOTH/STAND. See Also Perimeter Booth/Stand
Badge	Identifying sign, tag or emblem worn by event participants. Sometimes called a nametag.
Baffle	Partition to control light, air, sound, or traffic flow.
Baguette	Long French bread; crunchy crust.
Baked Alaska	Brick ice cream on cake, covered with meringue and browned quickly in the oven. Sometimes served flaming in a waiter parade.
Baklava	Russian, Greek or Turkish pastry made of flaky dough, honey, butter and chopped nuts.
Balance Sheet	A statement that indicates overall financial status by subtracting expenses from income.
Baling Wire	Thin gauged wire often used in display work for fastening or tying objects.
Ball	Formal social gathering for dancing.
Ball Light	Stationary adjustable light found on older model exhibits.
Ballast	A power supply used with arc or discharge lamps to control current through the bulb.
Bananas Foster	Dessert prepared with bananas, brown sugar, liqueur and served over vanilla ice cream. Often prepared flaming at table side.
Band	Portion of the audio frequency spectrum in the same way that green is a portion of the visible frequency spectrum. The audio frequency spectrum covers a range of over 10 octaves.
Band Pass	Set of two filters that attenuate frequencies beyond the frequency limits of a given band of frequencies. The telephone, for example, is a band pass filter that eliminates low frequencies below about 300 hertz and high frequencies above about 5,000 hertz, causing the characteristic telephone sound most people are familiar with.
Banding	Thin, flat wire used to hold cartons or crates together.
Bandwidth	The amount of information that can be transmitted in an information channel such as a telephone line, ISDN, or Ethernet. Higher bandwidth means that images and sound will load more quickly for use in videoconferences or on the Internet.
Banjo	Type of lightweight cloth used for backdrops.
Bank Draft	An order drawn for the payment of a specified sum of money through a bank to a particular person or entity.
Bank Guarantee Cash Deposit	Payable by the exhibitor to the forwarder, Customs agent, or official authorities in place of a temporary import bond to ensure the amount requested is the minimum amount of import duties and taxes that would be paid in case of final import.
Bank Maze	See STANCHIONS. See Also Stanchions
Bank Pin	Pin used for hanging booth/stand ID signs, alternative to S-HOOKS.
Bank Remittance	Money forwarded to a bank; may be by mail or electronic means.
Bank Transfer	Movement of funds between banks or from one bank account to another.
Banner	A suspended decorative or communicative panel, usually a temporary fabric or paper. Can be used as hanging signs.
Banner Advertising	An advertisement on a Web site which allows user to “click through” to the advertiser’s Web site.
Banquet	Formal, often ceremonial, dinner for a select group of people, often in honor of a particular person.
Banquet Captain	Person in charge of banquet service at food functions. For small functions, also serves as maitre d. For larger functions, may be responsible for a specific area of the dining room.
Banquet Event Order	BEO. A form most often used by hotels to provide details to personnel concerned with a specific food and beverage function or event room set-up.
Banquet Manager	A person in charge of banquet service.
Banquet Round	1) Round table used for meal service; depending on the diameter, can comfortably seat up to 12 persons. A round for 8 is usually 60-inches in diameter and is also called a 5-footer. The 66-inch round is a newer table size and seats 8 to 10. A round for 10is usually 72-inches in diameter and is also called 6-footer.
Banquet Set-Up	1) Seating arrangement where typically a grouping of rounds is set in such a way as to facilitate the serving of food, most often a hexagonal or square pattern. 2) Function-room set up and tear down. See HOUSEMAN. See Also Houseman
Banquet Set-Up Manager	In charge of function room set up, over housemen.
Bare Booth/Stand	Booth/stand with no services or facilities, meaning that these all have to be hired at an additional cost.
Bargaining Agent	Union recognized by the employer or designated by a government agency to act as the exclusive representative of employees in a bargaining unit.
Bargaining Unit	A group of employees designated by a government agency or accepted by the employer as constituting an appropriate unit for representation by a union.
Barn Door	Movable hinged flap used on stage lights to control light spill.
Barrier-Free	Absence of obstacles preventing handicapped persons from moving freely to all public areas within a building.
Barriers to Entry	Conditions that create difficulty for competitors to enter the market. For example, monopolies, cartels, copyrights, trademarks, patents, dedicated distribution channels and high initial investment requirements.
Barter	Trade in which merchandise or service is exchanged directly for other merchandise or service without the use of money.  Barter can be an important means of trade with countries using currency that is not readily convertible.
Base	1) Steel floor support piece for upright post. 2) A stand on which something rests or is supported.
Base Currency	Currency in which all official business transactions will take place.
Base Plate	Empty dinner plate used as a base for several courses and removed prior to the main course. Also called Set Plate. See Also UNDERLINER. Compare With SHOW PLATE. See Also Underliner , Show Plate
Base Rate	The hourly rate or salary paid for a job performed. It does not include payments of overtime, incentives or other differentials.
Base Salary	The fixed amount paid to an employee on a regular basis, not including any gratuities, commissions, benefits or bonuses.
Batten	BATS. Lengths of pipe from which scenery, curtains, and lights can be hung.
Baud	Bits a modem can send or receive per second
BDI	Both Dates Inclusive.
Bead	Metal edge of lath or framing that finishes corners or openings and gives plaster finish continuous, smooth corners.
Bead Board	A circuit board, which is most often carrying less than 24 volts of electricity.
Beaded Screen	Type of screen with highly reflective surface used for front protection.
Beam	The size, shape and sharpness of the image of the light as projected on a surface.
Béarnaise Sauce	A derivative of the hollandaise mother sauce.  It is prepared by adding a tarragon reduction to hollandaise.  Béarnaise must be kept on or near heat or it will separate and break down.  Often served on Filet Mignon.
Bed and Breakfast	1) A guesthouse, small hotel or private home that offers overnight accommodations and breakfast for paying guests. 2) Sleeping room rate includes breakfast. See CONTINENTAL PLAN (CP). See Also Continental Plan
Bed Hook	The size, shape and sharpness of the image of the light as projected on a surface.
Bed Tax	See TRANSIENT OCCUPANCY TAX. See Also Transient Occupancy Tax
Beef Wellington	Tenderloin coated with liver pate and baked en Croute (flaky crust).
Beep	Audio signal used for cueing and editing.
Beeper	Small radio receiver that emits a beeping noise when signaled to alert the person carrying it.
Beignet	(ben yay) 1) French doughnut, square shaped, minus the hole, lavishly sprinkled with powdered sugar. 2) Foods dipped in batter and deep-fried.
Bell Captain	A hotel employee who supervises the work of staff whose primary responsibility is to carry luggage, run errands, etc. at a hotel or club. Not to be confused with Concierge.
Below-the-Line Expenses	Expenses for general business purposes not related directly to an event, common referred to as general overhead expenses such as office rent, health insurance, etc.
Benefits	1) Entitlements made available in accordance with employment, such as a medical insurance policy, vacation, sick leave, etc. 2) Compensation or coverage from an insurance policy.
BEO	Banquet Event Order. A form most often used by hotels to provide details to personnel concerned with a specific food and beverage function or event room set-up.
Bermuda Plan	Hotel accommodations with full American-style breakfast included in the rate. See BED AND BREAKFAST. See Also AMERICAN PLAN, CONTINENTAL PLAN, DEMI-PENSION, EUROPEAN PLAN, MODIFIED AMERICAN PLAN. See Also Bed and Breakfast , American Plan , Continental Plan , Demi-Pension , European Plan , Modified American Plan
Betacam/BetaSP	Common video format for presentation graphics, not compatible with VHS format.  Commercial beta is used for broadcast quality video.  See VHS Format. See Also VHS Format
Bible	See SPECIFICATIONS GUIDE. See Also Specifications Guide
Bid	1) A statement of what one will give or take in return for something else (a price); proposal. 2) Proposal submitted by a convention & visitors bureau and/or hotel(s) to an event organizer that includes defined dates and room blocks.
Bid Document	The proposal, usually prepared in response to a request for proposals or sales lead, submitted by a destination or a facility, inviting an organization to hold its event n their venue. See REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS See Also Request for Proposals
Bid Manual/Specifications	Written document issued by an organization which contains requirements and conditions for future events, and solicits proposals for needed services from venues and other service providers. Often also includes primary selection and decision procedures. Same as REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL (RFP). See Also Request for Proposals
Bien Cuit	(ben kwee) Well done, as in steak cooked well done.
Bill of Lading	B/L. A document that establishes the terms of a contract between a shipper and a transportation company under which freight is to be moved between specified points for a specified charge. Usually prepared by the shipper on forms issued by the carrier, it serves as a document of title, a contract of carriage, and a receipt of goods. See AIR WAYBILL. See Also INLAND BILL OF LADING, OCEAN BILL OF LADING, THROUGH BILL OF LADING. See Also Air Waybill , Inland Bill of Lading , Ocean Bill of Lading , Through Bill of Lading
Billing Instructions	Notice as to how charges for an event should be handled and to whom invoices should be addressed.
Billing Weight	Generally refers to airfreight and van line shipments. The billing weight is the number upon which freight charges are based. The billing weight will be the actual weight or the dimensional weight, whichever is greater.
Binding	Process of fastening pages of books, brochures, magazines together. See PERFECT BINDING. See Also SADDLE STITCH, SIDE-STITCH BINDING. See Also Perfect Binding , Saddle-Stitch Binding , Side-Stitch Binding
Bio	A slang term for biography.
Biographical Sheet	A profile, one-sheet or a short document that lists a speakers’ major credits and gives a brief history of his or her career. A biographical sheet is not a job resume or a vital. To remain true to its singular limit, a biographical sheet should be no longer than one page.
Bisque	(bisk) Soup thickened with a vegetable puree; usually a shellfish soup.
Bit	A unit of measurement that represents one figure or character of data. A bit is the smallest unit of storage in a computer. Bit multiples are called bytes.
Bitmap	A set of bits that defines a graphic image.
Black Light	Ultraviolet lighting that when applied causes phosphorescent paints to glow.
Black Tie	Required dress: dinner jacket, bow tie and cummerbund for the men and formal evening dress for the women. May include national dress. In the U.S. and Canada, Black Tie indicates Tuxedo. “Black tie optional” indicates that formal dress is preferred but not required. See FORMAL DRESS. See Also WHITE TIE. See Also Formal Dress , White Tie
Black Tie Optional	Men can wear a tuxedo or dark business suit; for women a long, formal gown or a shorter, elegant dress or suit.
Black-and-White	A black-and-white photograph of a speaker, sometimes referred to as a B&W. See GLOSSY. See Also Glossy
Blackboard	Hard, smooth, usually dark surface used for drawing or writing with chalk. See CHALKBOARD. See Also MARKER BOARD. See Also Chalkboard , Marker Board
Blanket License	Used particularly in regard to music licensing, a blanket license allows the music user unlimited access to the collectives' licensed repertory, for a contractual period of time, in exchange for a profit participation in the music user's economic growth. See Also ASCAP, BMI, & SESAC. See Also ASCAP , BMI , SESAC
Blanket Wrap	Non-crated freight shipped via van line covered with  protective blankets or padding.
Bleachers	Stand of tiered planks providing seating space for spectators. Can be permanent or temporary.
Bleed	Ink that extends beyond edges of printed page. Area beyond usable section of blowup or copy block that allows for trimming or wrapping.
Bleeding Edge	A level of technology more advanced than cutting edge or state-of-the-art.  Bleeding edge equipment should be given extra attention, being careful to test and retest and not make adjustments between the rehearsal and the event.
Blind Commission	A commission that is paid by a hotel to a third party that reimburses for services and comes out of the hotel sleeping room rate, but is not disclosed to the guests or the event organizer. Such commissions may fall within commercial bribery laws and if involve use of interstate commerce may also be federal law violation. See KICKBACK. See Also Kickback
Blind Fastening	Method of using nails or screws to secure tongue and groove flooring into the edge of the board just above the tongue thus concealing the fastener.
Blintze	Thin pancake rolled around a filling of cream cheese and chopped meat or fruit.
Blister Pack	Vacuum formed transparent plastic wrap.
Block	1) Total number of sleeping rooms reserved for an event. 2) A number of rooms, seats, or space reserved in advance for a group. 3) To assign space. See ROOM BLOCK. See Also Room Block
Block	1) Number of rooms reserved for one group. 2) To assign space.
Blocked Space	Sleeping rooms, exhibit, event, or other function space reserved for future use by an individual or organization.
Blocking	1) First stand-up rehearsal during which the director sets up all the action for the scene. 2) The act of reserving or assigning sleeping rooms, exhibit, event, or other function space.
Block-Out	Usually refers to painting out portions of photo or negative on screen.
Blower	General term for device to circulate or remove warm air from restricted areas (i.e., projector housings).
Blow-Up	Enlargement of photo, art, or typography.
Blue Laws	State or local laws that regulate the types of businesses that must be closed, or the types of products that may not be sold on Sundays.
Blue Sky	Term for extreme design, thinking or abstract value.
Blueline	Final proof copy for client's approval before printing. Also referred to as a proof.
Blueprint	A mechanical drawing of booth/stand layout, construction and specifications.  See FLOOR PLAN. See Also Floor Plan
Bluetooth	The process for the wireless convergence of cell phones, computers, personal digital assistants (PDA), etc.
BMI	Broadcast Music Incorporated. A music licensing organization that represents individuals who hold the copyrights to music written in the United States. It grants licensing agreements for the performance of music.
BO	1) Bad Order. 2) Buyers Option.
Board	Body appointed by the governing board or general assembly to manage the affairs of a society, association, etc., on a day-to-day basis.
Board Meeting	A meeting of the governing body of an organization.
Board of Trustees	An official body which manages the affairs and administers the funds of an institution or organization.
Boarding Pass	Permit to board a ship, train, plane, or other form of transportation.
Boardroom	A room set permanently with a fixed table and suitable seating.
Boardroom Set-Up	Seating arrangement in which rectangle or oval shaped tables are set up with chairs on both sides and ends. Often confused with HOLLOW SQUARE SET-UP. See Also Hollow Square Set-Up
Body Type	Type size used for main text.
Boeuf à la Bourguignonne	(boff a la borg in yone) Traditional beef stew with vegetables in burgundy wine sauce.
Boldface	Darker type distinguished from lighter type faces.
Bomb Threat	A claim of knowledge or belief that an explosive or incendiary bomb has been or will be placed.
Bombé	Molded dessert of ice cream, whipped cream and fruit.
Bonbon	Any sweet candy.
Bonded Warehouse	A warehouse authorized by customs authorities for storage of goods on which payment of duties is deferred until the goods are removed.
Bonding	The purchase, for a premium, of a guarantee of protection for a supplier or a customer. In the hospitality industry, certain bonding programs are mandatory.
Bone Yard	Storage area where equipment is stored during an exhibition. This area may be located within the exhibition hall in an unused portion of the floor. Alternate spelling is Boneyard. See DUMP. See Also Dump
Boneyard	Storage area where equipment is stored during an exhibition. This area may be located within the exhibition hall in an unused portion of the floor. Alternate spelling is Bone Yard. See DUMP. See Also Dump
Bonus	A sum given to an individual in addition to the individuals base compensation, generally as a reward for accomplishing a goal.
Book	To reserve flights or accommodations for a passenger or guest.
Book of Abstracts	Collection of abstracts being presented during an event which are made available to event participants for use in selecting which sessions to attend.
Booking	1) An arrangement with a company for use of facilities, goods or services. 2) For a Hotel Event, a future event contracted in writing by an event organizer with a hotel. According to guidelines from the International Association of Convention & Visitor Bureaus, the local CVB should receive a copy of the contract, or a written communication from an authorized agent of the hotel that a contract has been signed. The communication should detail dates, space requirements and estimated room block. The CVB should track estimated attendance and attendee spending for the event. 3) For a Citywide or Convention Center event, according to guidelines from the International Association of Convention & Visitor Bureaus, given the long-time frame often involved in such an event, the booking process generally takes two steps. The first is a “Confirmed Booking” where a future event is confirmed in writing (letter, booking notice), signed by an authorized agent of the event organizer and the convention center (if applicable). The written communication should detail dates, space requirements and estimated room block. The local CVB should track estimated attendance and attendee spending. The second step is a “Contracted Booking” where a future event is contracted in writing by the event organizer with the event facility (e.g., convention center). The local CVB should receive communication of this stage in writing from an authorized agent of the convention center.
Booking Policy	Guidelines by which a convention center (or other venue) prioritizes reservations; may correspond to hotel rooms the event will use in the area.
Book-on-Payment	BOP. Payment guaranteed by travel agency for a package reserved within cancellation period.
Boom	Adjustable support for positioning microphones or lighting fixtures.
Boom Arm	Attachment placed on a standard straight microphone stand which extends the reach of the stand to the side. Often used to place a microphone in front of a singer seated at a piano.
Boom Lift	A motorized platform used to lift people to a given height. See SCISSOR LIFT. See Also Scissor Lift
Booth	One or more standard units of exhibit space.  In the US, a standard unit is generally known to be a 10' x 10' space (one standard booth/stand unit, equaling 100 nsf). However, if an exhibitor purchases multiple units side-by-side or back-to-back, the combined space is also still referred to as a BOOTH or a STAND.  Specific area assigned by management to exhibitor under contractual agreement. See STAND. See Also Stand
Booth/Stand Area	Amount of floor space occupied by exhibitor. Also Called EXHIBITION AREA. See Also Exhibition Area
Booth/Stand Contractor	Company which constructs or assembles exhibit booths/stands under contract with the organizing committee. See GENERAL SERVICE CONTRACTOR. See Also General Service Contractor
Booth/Stand Number	Number assigned by the event's management to designate each exhibitor's space.
Booth/Stand Package	When an exhibitor receives a variety of services for one single price (e.g. each booth/stand receives carpet 1-6’ draped table, a 500-watt outlet and 500 lbs of drayage).
Booth/Stand Personnel	An individual assigned to represent the exhibitor in an assigned space.
Booth/Stand Sign	1) Identification sign indicating name, city, state and booth/stand number for each exhibitor. 2) Sign behind desk indicating service provided at that point. See FASCIA. See Also Fascia
Booth/Stand Size	Dimensions of assigned exhibit space.
Boothmanship	See EXHIBITORSHIP. See Also Exhibitorship
Bootleg Wages	The wages above those at the prevailing rate or the union scale which an employer may pay in a tight labor market to hold or attract employees.  May also refer to wages at rate below the prevailing or union rate which an employee may accept in order to obtain employment.
Bordeaux Wines	Wines from the Bordeaux region in southwest France known for richness and fragrance. Red wines (also known as Clarets) include Médoc, Margaux Saint-Emilion, Pauillac and Pomerol; fine white Bordeaux include Sauternes, Barsac and Graves. A Château is a wine estate in Bordeaux; some of the best are Château Latour, Château Mouton-Rothschild, Château Lafite-Rothschild, and Château Margaux.
Border Chaser	Border of lights placed around a sign or other object whose lights can be turned on and off in a sequence that make them appear to chase around the border.
Border Light	Rows of lights mounted above the acting area.
Borscht	Chilled soup made of chopped beets, onions, lemon juice or vinegar, salt and pepper, water or soup stock, topped with sour cream.  Sometimes cabbage is added.
Bouillabaisse	Wine-flavored mixed seafood stew.
Bouquetière	Mix of fresh vegetables, in season.
Box Lunch	Light lunch to go, in a box.
Brad Gun	A nail gun. A pneumatic device which installs fasteners of various types and sizes.
Brains Trust	A group of expert advisors assembled especially to answer questions of immediate or current interest.
Brainstorming	Group sessions in which all participants contribute creative ideas which are not initially judged for merit.
Break	Short interval between sessions at which time coffee, tea and/or other refreshments are served. See COFFEE BREAK. See Also ENERGY BREAK, REFRESHMENT BREAK. See Also Coffee Break , Energy Break , Refreshment Break
Break Terminal	Location at which common carriers separate consolidated freight.
Breakage	Expenses budgeted for a tour but not used or extended, thus resulting in additional profit to the operator.
Break-Bulk Center	Regional distribution center that consolidates and distributes multiple less than truckload (LTL) shipments headed in the same direction.
Breakdown	1) Time required to dismantle a function area. 2) To itemize estimates, invoices, and the like.
Break-Even Point	The point at which revenues are equal to expenses.
Break-Out Rooms	Small function rooms set up for a group within an event as opposed to a plenary or general session.
Break-Out Sessions	Small group sessions, panels, workshops or presentations, offered concurrently within the event, formed to focus on specific subjects.  The event is apart from the general session, but within the event format, formed to focus on specific subjects.  These sessions can be arranged by basic, intermediate or advanced; or divided by interest areas or industry segment.
Breakpoint	Level at which quantity discounts are allowed for volumes of freight, number of items printed, etc.
Break-Up	Image or audio distortion, such as losing signal on cell phone.
Bridge	Device allowing multiple outputs from the same input. Most often used to allow electronic media to take a feed of the program for use in broadcast programming.
Bridgeway	1) Area between booths/stands for audience traffic movement. 2) Space between sets of tables, chairs or booths/stands to allow passage of attendees. See GANGWAY. See Also Gangway
Brilliance	Degree of intensity of colors.
Broadband	Ability to transmit huge volumes of voice and video over a network or the internet, without jumpy images.
Broadcast Fax	A service that transmits a fax to a large number or people, such as an entire association membership or company.
Broadcast Music, Inc.	BMI. A music licensing organization that represents individuals who hold the copyrights to music written in the United States. It grants licensing agreements for the performance of music.
Brochure	Printed marketing folder describing and promoting the advantages of a particular hotel, event, destination, etc.
Broker	A non-asset based transportation provider that sells transportation services for commercial shippers. Brokers commonly use freight forwarders.
Brokering	Bureau with customer who wants a speaker goes to an agent representing an exclusive speaker, to buy said speaker. Commission is determined by the exclusive agent.
Brushed Finish	Finish primarily on aluminum or steel achieved by rubbing with wire brush or steel wool to achieve a matte quality.
Brussels Tariff Nomenclature	An international system of classification for goods that was once widely used for specifying tariffs. It was changed, in name only, to the Customs Cooperation Council Nomenclature (CCCN) in 1976 and was later superceded by the Harmonized System of Tariff Nomenclature. See HARMONIZED SYSTEM OF TARIFF NOMENCLATURE. See Also Harmonized System of Tariff Nomenclature
Brut	Dry, as in wine. Not sweet.
Buck-Boost Transformer	A transformer used to convert electrical voltage either up or down (such as 208v to 220v, or 240v to 220v).
Budget	A statement of estimated revenues and expenditures for a specified period of time; divided into subject categories and arranged by principal areas of revenue and expense. See BUDGET CHART. See Also CASH FLOW CHART, PHASED BUDGET. See Also Budget Chart , Cash Flow Chart , Phased Budget
Budget Chart	Estimated total of revenue and expenditure; divided into subject categories projecting cash needed to meet expenses over a specific time frame. See BUDGET. See Also CASH FLOW CHART, PHASED BUDGET. See Also Budget , Cash Flow Chart , Phased Budget
Budget Philosophy	Financial goal of the event (break even, profit or lose money).
Buffer Zone	1) Block of seats on plane located between smoking and nonsmoking sections allowing for variance in the smoking and nonsmoking boundary on international flights. 2) Zone in Canada, 225 miles from the U. S. border, dividing the two tax structures applied to Y class fare. (First class, business class excluded.)
Buffet	Assortment of foods, offered on a table, self-served.
Building Rules	Regulations set by building management outlining procedures for their property.
Build-Up	System of programming flasher to light lamps in cumulative sequence with time intervals between.
Bulk Carrier	A bulk carrier is a vessel engaged in the carriage of such bulk commodities as petroleum, grain, or ores which are not yet packaged, bundled, bottled, or otherwise packed.
Bulk Fare	Rate/fare available only to tour organizers or operators who purchase a specified block of seats, passes or tickets at a low, non-commissionable price and then have the responsibility of selling the block, including a commission in their marked up price for the block.
Bulkhead	Seats at the front of an airline cabin facing a wall.
Bullet Catch	Device for holding hinged door closed.
Bullets	Large, heavy dots or symbols used in written text for emphasis or to separate points used for emphasis.
Bullnose	Technique for finishing raw edge with half round molding, or shaping to half round.
Bumping	1) Removing a confirmed passenger from a full flight to make room for a passenger with higher priority.
Bunching	Linen gathered together in loose folds on top of a table to provide a decorative ‘bed’.
Bungee Cord	An elastic type cord used for hanging drape around columns.
Bunting	Flags used collectively, or swagged strips of cloth hung as festive decorations from walls or tables.
Bureau	A booking or sales company that sells the services of multiple speakers. See SPEAKERS BUREAU.
Bureau Listing	A speaker grants the right to a speakers bureau to list the speaker as available. See LISTING. See Also Listing
Burgundy Wine	Wine from the Burgundy region in eastern France which produces both red and white wines. The white wines, made from Chardonnay grapes, and the red wines, made from Pinot Noir or Gamay grapes, are considered the world’s best examples of these wines. Some of the better known Burgundy wines include those from Beaujolis, Pommard, Beaune, Meursault, Chablis, Pouilly-Fuissé, Chambertin, Corton, Romanée Conti and Echézeaux.
Burned In Copy	Written copy appearing on photographs.
Bus	1) Vehicle for transporting people. See SHUTTLE. See Also MOTOR COACH. 2) Connector panel which allows passage of signals. 3) To clear trash from an area where food and beverage are being served. See Also Shuttle , Motor Coach
Bus Duct	Metal raceway enclosing high-voltage power feeds, suspended from overhead or in the floor, from which high-voltage power over 100 amps must be fed.
Bus Schedule	Designated time locations where motor coaches will pick up and discharge passengers.
Bus Staff	Personnel who remove dirty dishes and reset tables in a restaurant or hotel.
Business Agent	Political, elected position within a union. Salary is not paid by service contractor, but by the union itself.  See FOREMAN. See Also SHOP STEWARD, UNION STEWARD. See Also Foreman , Shop Steward , Union Steward
Business Attire	Business suits or jackets with shirts and ties for men and day dresses or suits for women; usually taken to mean office and not recreational wear. Can include informal forms of national dress.
Business Casual	A style of dress that is less formal than the standard office attire of suit and tie or dress.
Business Center	Area in hotel or event venue offering various office facilities and services.
Business Center Services	Services that will allow attendees to keep in touch with their office (phone, fax, message, etc.)
Business Class	Class of airline service between first class and economy class with special amenities for business travelers.
Business Exchange	A Web site that serves as a year-round online marketplace for buyers and sellers within a given marketplace. Such sites are also referred to as business-to-business (B2B) marketplaces, business-to-consumer (B2C) marketplaces or consumer-to-consumer (C2C), depending upon the target audience.
Business Occurring	Referring to the number of groups and attendees meeting in a city during a specific time frame.
Buss	Like a bus that may carry many passengers, an audio buss is a wire or circuit that may carry more than one audio signal at a time.
Busy	Cluttered image on the screen.
Butler Service	1) Servers offer a variety of both hot and cold hors d’oeuvres on platters to guests at receptions. 2) A style of table service where guests serve themselves from platters presented by the server. 3) Specialized in-room service offered by a hotel.
Butt Joint	Joint in carpentry achieved by nailing and gluing square ends of lumber together.
Buyer	The person or group representative who signs the contract and pays for the speaker.
Buying Agent	See PURCHASING AGENT. See Also Purchasing Agent
Buying Team	Two or more people from the same company who jointly evaluate a product or service and either make, or influence, the buying decision.
Buzz Session	Method to increase audience participation by dividing all participants in discussion groups each of which reports the group’s findings and opinions during a following plenary session.
Buzz Set-Up	See CRESCENT-ROUND SET-UP. See Also Crescent-Round Set-Up
BX Cable	BX is no longer manufactured, but the term is still common in the field. See MC CABLE. See Also MC Cable
By the Bottle	Liquor served and charged for by the full bottle.
By the Drink	Liquor served and charged for by the number of drinks served.
By the Person	A fixed price per attendee; covers all consumption of food and beverage at a function, within a given time frame; usually includes beverages, snacks or hors d’oeuvres. In some cases, beverages are purchased by the person, while food is ordered by the piece.
By the Piece	Food purchased by the individual piece, usually for a reception.
By-Laws	See ARTICLES AND BY-LAWS. See Also Articles and By-laws
Byte	The amount of memory needed to store one character such as a letter or a number.
C&F	Cost and Freight. A pricing term indicating that these costs are included in the quoted price.
C&I	Cost and Insurance.  A pricing term indicating that these costs are included in the quoted price.
Cabana	Room adjacent to pool area, with or without sleeping facilities.
Cabaret Set-up	Room arrangement with cocktail tables with chairs and a stage.
Cabaret Table	Small round table, 15- 30 inches in diameter (38-76 centimeters) used for cocktail type parties. Also Called COCKTAIL TABLE. See Also TUXEDO TABLE. See Also Tuxedo Table
Cable	Used for suspending objects and is much stronger than wire. Its thickness ranges from 1/8” to ½”.
Cable Modem	Allows you to connect your computer to a local cable television line and receive data at high speed. Cable modems attach to a coaxial cable line to communicate with a cable modem termination system at the cable television company.
Cable Pick	Rigging point or working line used to lift overhead equipment above an exhibit space or exhibit.
CAD/CAM	Computer Assisted Drawing/Computer Assisted Manufacturing.
CADD	Computer Aided Design and Drafting.
CAE	Certified Association Executive.
CAEM	Canadian Association of Exposition Managers.
Cafeteria Service	A food service operation in which customers carry their own trays and select food from a display counter or counters. It is similar to a buffet, but food is served by attendants.
Calamari	Italian fried squid.
Call	1) Method of securing union employees. 2) Time specified for labor to report (e.g. an 8:00 a.m. call). 3) Minimum amount for which union labor must be paid.  See LABOR CALL. See Also Labor Call
Call Board	Theater bulletin board with announcements of rehearsals, work calls and other general theater announcements.
Call Brand	Brand of liquor, distinguished from HOUSE BRAND, selected by a customer according to personal preference. Usually a higher quality than house brands. See Also House Brand
Call for Papers	An invitation to submit topic ideas for the conference program. Document containing detailed instructions for submission of papers for assessment and selection by a review committee; often referred to as “Abstract Forms.” See ABSTRACT. See Also CONFERENCE PAPERS. See Also Abstract , Conference Papers
Call Pay	See REPORTING PAY. See Also Reporting Pay
Call-Out	Notations on drawings or exhibits of special significance, i.e. finish, edge, color, detail or features.
Cam	Metal disc, either eccentric or notched, commonly used to open and close flash switches and other mechanical devices.
Camera Card	Cue card which displays script to performers on stage in order to prompt lines. See CUE CARD. See Also IDIOT CARD. See Also Cue Card , Idiot Card
Camera Chain	The combination of television cameras, cables, video controls and power supply.
Camera Left and Right	Directions from camera’s perspective, as opposed to STAGE LEFT AND RIGHT. See AUDIENCE LEFT AND RIGHT. See Also SCREEN LEFT AND RIGHT. See Also Stage Left and Right , Audience Left and Right , Screen Left and Right
Camera-Ready Art	Materials ready for photographic reproduction.
Cam-Lock Connectors	Means of connecting electrical cabling to electrical equipment.
Campus Housing	Dormitory or other university/college sleeping accommodations.
Can Service	Foods are prepared tableside and an assembled plate is served by the attendant.
Canadian Customs Invoice	Document required by Canadian Customs identifying shipper, seller, consignee, terms, date of shipment, material being sold/shipped, classification code, quantity, unit and total prices. Additional information required on the invoice depends on shipper and consignee arrangements.
Canapé	(can a pay) Hot or cold appetizer with a bread or cracker base.
Cancellation Clause	Provision in a contract which outlines damages to be paid to the non-canceling party if cancellation occurs, due the canceling party's breach of the contract.
Cancellation or Interruption Insurance	Insurance that protects a event organizer against financial loss or expenses incurred when contractually specified perils necessitate canceling or relocating a event, or cause a reduction in attendance.
Cancellation/No-Show Percentage	A factor included in WASH. The number of rooms that did not materialize (either canceled or no-showed on the planner date of arrival). See also WASH. See Also Wash
Cancelled Business	A booking that subsequently did not take place, either because the event itself was cancelled or left the destination or facility before taking place. According to the International Association of Convention & Visitor Bureaus, the local CVB should track the estimated number of room nights, attendance and attendee spending and the reason associated with the cancellation.
Candelabra	Ornamental branched holder for more than one candle.
Canned	A slang term for a standard ”off the shelf” speech or presentation. Often, the term “ canned” is used in a negative context to refer to material that a speaker uses too often, without changes, in presentations.
Canopy	1) Drapery, awning or other roof-like covering.  2) An overhead projecting cover.
Cantilever	A horizontal beam or piece supported on one end and extending beyond its vertical support.
Canvas	Material used for outdoor banners.
Cap Nut	A piece of hardware with an internal screw thread that is used on the end of a bolt when a finished appearance is desired.
Cap Strip	Piece of finished material used to cover end framing.
Capacitor	Electronic circuit component part designed to store electricity.
Capacity	Maximum number of people allowed in any given area.
Capacity Control	Restriction on the number of seats available at a particular fare.
Cappuccino	A hot beverage of 1/3 espresso, 1/3 steamed milk, 1/3 foamed milk.
Captain	Person in charge of banquet service at food functions; supervisor of the servers.
Caption	See CUTLINE. See Also Cutline
Carbon Neutral Travel	Carbon Neutral is the point at which enough trees are planted to offset completely emissions from a manufacturing process, distribution, product usage, building or individual.
Cargo Insurance	Additional coverage protecting the owner of goods for loss or damage while goods are in a carrier's possession. Recommended for all international shipments.
Carnet	(carnay) A customs document permitting the holder to carry or send merchandise temporarily into certain foreign countries (for display, demonstration or similar purposes) without paying duties or posting bonds.
Carnival	Mobile enterprise principally devoted to offering amusement or entertainment to the public in, upon or by means of portable amusement rides or devices or temporary structures in any number or combination, whether with other structures or forms of public attraction.
Carousel Tray	Circular holder used for projecting 35mm slides.
Carpaccio	An appetizer of thin shavings of raw beef fillet, often drizzled with olive oil and lemon juice or served with a mayonnaise or mustard sauce and often topped with capers and/or onions. Sometimes tuna, or other meat, is used in place of the beef.
Carpenter	Skilled person used for fabrication and installation of displays; labor to perform display uncrating, installation, dismantling, recrating. (Note: this type of labor is performed by individuals with a variety of job titles throughout the world).
Carpet Knife	Knife used for cutting carpet.
Carpet Tape	Double-faced tape used to adhere edge of carpet to floor or to repair carpet tears. See DUCT TAPE. See Also Duct Tape
Carriage Bolt	A bolt with a square shank next to the head to allow tightening in wood without tools.
Carrier	1) Exclusive use of all or some space on an airplane, bus, ship, or other vehicle for a special period of time and for a specific itinerary. 2) Transportation contractor moving passengers or freight (van line, common carrier, rail car, airplane).
Cartage	1) Fee charged for transporting freight between destinations. 2) Short distance hauling of exhibit properties.
Cartage Agent	Ground service operator who provides pickup and delivery in areas not served directly by air carrier.
Cartons	Small shipping containers made of cardboard.
Case Study	An intensive analysis of an individual unit or situation.
Cases	Shipping containers usually made of plastic or fiberglass.
Cash Accounting	A system in which revenue and expenses are counted as they are actually received.
Cash Against Documents	CAD. Payment for goods in which a commission house or other intermediary transfers title documents to the buyer upon payment in cash.
Cash Bar	Private room bar set up where guests pay for drinks individually.
Cash Based Accounting	An accounting method that enters income and expenses into the books at the time when payment is received or expenses incurred.
Cash Flow	The transfer of monies into and out of an enterprise.
Cash Flow Chart	Estimate total of revenue and expenditure; divided into subject categories projecting cash needed to meet expenses over a specific time frame. See BUDGET CHART. See Also PHASED BUDGET. See Also Budget Chart , Phased Budget
Cash in Advance	CIA. Payment for goods in which the price is paid in full before shipment is made.  This method is usually used only for small purchases, for poor credit risks or when the goods are built to order.
Cash Registration	Full payment for anticipated room and tax charges at registration; credit for incidentals not extended.
Cash Reservation	Payment with reservation for full or part of stay.
Cash with Order	CWO. Payment for goods in which the buyer pays when ordering and in which the transaction is binding on both parties.
Cassette	Self-enclosed two-reel tape module — video or audio.
Casual Attire	Sports shirt (possibly with jacket) for men; resort wear for women.
Casualty	Rooms that were reserved by attendees but not used; often refers to “no shows” or last minute cancellations.
Casualty Insurance	A type of insurance that is primarily concerned with the legal liability for losses caused by injury to persons or damage to the property of others.
Category Cable	(Unshielded Twisted Pair Cable or UTP) Usually referred to as Cat 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5 cable. Cat 5 transmits data the fastest. Fast Ethernet requires enhanced Cat 5 cable or Cat 5 to operate at its full potential. See BACKBONE. See Also Backbone
Caterer	1) A food service vendor, often used to describe a vendor who specializes in banquets and theme parties. 2) An exclusive food & beverage contractor within a facility.
Catering	The provision of food and beverages.
Catering Sales Manager	Staff person responsible for selling and servicing group and local food and beverage functions.
Catwalk	Walkway above auditorium used for hanging lights and sound equipment.
Caviar	Sturgeon roe (eggs); lightly salted.  The lighter the color, the better quality and the more expensive.
CBT	Computer-Based Training.
CC	Current Cost.
CDME	Certified Destination Marketing Executive. A certification of the International Association of Convention and Visitor Bureaus. www.iacvb.org
CD-ROM	Compact Disk-Read Only Memory. A disk that can hold many times the data of a traditional floppy disk.
CDX	Blemish-free wood surface.
CEC	Continuing Education Credit. Requirement of many professional groups by which members must certify participation in formal educational programs designed to maintain their level of ability beyond their original certification date.  See CONTINUING EDUCATION UNIT (CEU). See Also Continuing Education Unit
Ceiling Decor	Suspended decorations to enhance appearance of hall, or create a more intimate environment by 'lowering' the ceiling.
Ceiling Height	Maximum height of ceiling of an exhibition hall or event room. Dimensions quoted by halls and hotels often do not take into account any light fixtures hanging from the ceiling.
CEIR	Center for Exhibition Industry Research. A member of the Convention Industry Council.
Celastic	Material formed to shape by using treated fabrics, resins, and adhesives.
Celebrity Speaker	A speaker who is booked for his/her name value.
Celotex	Material composed of compressed paper and adhesives.
Celsius	A temperature scale (Also Called CENTIGRADE) where 0° is freezing and 100° is the boiling point.  To convert Celsius temperatures to Fahrenheit, multiply the Celsius figure by 9, divide by 5, and add 32.
Centerpiece	Decoration for the center of a banquet table.
Centigrade	See CELSIUS. See Also Celsius
Central Console	The desk from which technicians operate microphones and audiovisual equipment.
Century Weight	CWT. A measurement for exhibit freight, usually 100 pounds.
Certificate in Meeting Management	CMM. Certification program offered by Meeting Professionals International; global certification in meeting management that focuses on strategic thinking and actions for senior level meeting professionals.
Certificate of Inspection	A document certifying that merchandise (such as perishable goods) was in good condition immediately prior to its shipment.
Certificate of Insurance	A document provided by an insurance company as proof that a policy has been issued and coverage is in effect.
Certificate of Manufacture	A statement (often notarized) in which a producer of goods certifies that the manufacturing has been completed and the goods are now at the disposal of the buyer.
Certificate of Origin	A document, required by certain countries for tariff purposes, certifying as to the country of origin of specified goods.
Certification	Program and process by which a participant completes proscribed training and passes an assessment.
Certified Association Executive	CAE. Certification program offered by the American Society of Association Executives. Certification designed to elevate professional standards, enhance individual performance and designate those who demonstrate knowledge essential to the practice of association management.
Certified Destination Marketing Executive	CDME. A certification of the International Association of Convention and Visitor Bureaus. www.iacvb.org
Certified Exhibition Manager	CEM. An exhibition management professional, as officially designated by the International Association of Exhibition Management.
Certified Hospitality Marketing Executive	CHME. A certification program offered by the Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International. www.hsmai.org
Certified Hospitality Sales Professional	CHSP. A certification program offered by the American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute.
Certified Hotel Administrator	CHA. A certification program offered by the American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute.
Certified Incentive Travel Executive	CITE. A designation offered by the Society of Incentive & Travel Executives (SITE).
Certified Manager of Exhibits	CME. An exhibit industry professional, as officially designated by the Trade Show Exhibitors Association.
Certified Meeting Professional	CMP. Certification program offered by the Convention Industry Council. This designation certifies competency in 27 areas of meeting management through application and examination.
Certified Speaking Professional	CSP. Accredited designation offered by the National Speakers Association. This designation is earned for extensive, documented speaking experience and client satisfaction.
Certified Special Events Professional	CSEP. Accredited designation offered by the International Special Event Society. This designation is earned for professional achievement in event management.
Certified Weight	An official weight issued from a Certified Weight Master. This individual certifies a shipment's weight as the only acceptable weight for transportation and drayage at a tradeshow. Weights can be determined by weighing the vehicle heavy (full) and light (empty), or by weighing each piece.
CESSE	Council of Engineering and Scientific Society Executives. A member of the Convention Industry Council.
CEU	See CONTINUING EDUCATION UNIT. See Also Continuing Education Unit
CHA	Certified Hotel Administrator. A certification program offered by the American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute.
Chafing Dish	Used to warm or cook food, it consists of a container (usually metal) with a heat source directly beneath it, which can come from a candle, electricity or solid fuel (e.g. Sterno). There's often a larger dish that is used as a water basin (like the bottom of a double boiler) into which the dish containing the food is placed to prevent food from burning.
Chai	Spiced tea with cream and sweetener.
Chain Drive	Power transmission via chain for the movement of an object.
Chain Hoist Motor	Motor that pulls a chain through itself in order to lift a load.
Chain Lock	Protective or security device which connects by a chain a closed and ajar door to doorjamb. Also Called SECURITY LOCK.
Chair	A person selected to preside over a committee, a conference session or entire an conference.
Chalkboard	See BLACKBOARD. See Also MARKER BOARD. See Also Blackboard , Marker Board
Chamfer	Technique of reducing sharp corner of lumber by sanding or machining edge.
Change Order	Facility form to advise departments of changes in reservations or functions.
Channel	1) Individual signal path through a system which has more than one such path. A special line reserved to a specific usage (e.g. speech on walkie talkies, etc.). 2) Generally, any material milled or extruded in a continuous U-shape.
Character Generator	Electronic device that allows words or characters to be displayed on a television image.
Charger	Another name for a larger plate, used as a base plate or platter.
Charrette	The binding together of designers, planners, and business professionals to discuss development concepts and plans. Freely sharing ideas in a relaxed, yet intense atmosphere — a brainstorming session is at the heart of a successful Charrette. It is a planning process, ideal for entertainment and recreational projects.
Chart of Accounts	A detailed list of the individual line items that make up the revenue and expense categories in a budget. A numbering system used to identify every line item in a budget, so income and expenses are posted to the correct accounts.
Charter	1) Exclusive use of all or some space on an airplane, bus, ship, or other vehicle for a special period of time and for a specific itinerary. 2) To create a new association, organization or chapter of an association or organization.
Charter Operations	1) In terms of motor carrier certificates, the transportation of groups organized by someone other than the carrier, and which are sold the exclusive use of the vehicle. 2) An operator authorized to arrange transportation in charter operations.
Charter Party	A written contract, usually on a special form, between the owner of a vessel and a charterer who rents use of the vessel or a part of its freight space. The contract generally includes the freight rates and the ports involved in the transportation.
Charts	Diagrams, music books, sheets, or scores.
Chaser	Mild drink taken after hard liquor.
Chaser Flasher/Lights	Electronic device to accomplish rapid sequential lighting.
Chat	A real time synchronous electronic discussion forum where participants can communicate with instructors, mentors and peers to simulate the classroom environment.
Chateaubriand	Thick tenderloin steak, cut from the center or 'barrel' of the loin.
Chaud	(show) Hot.
Chaud Froid	(show fwah) Hot/cold jellied sauce used to decorate buffet show pieces, such as hams or turkeys.
Cheat	Varying the positions of actors to achieve a better TV picture.
Check-In	Procedure for hotel guest arrival and registration.
Check-In Time	Time at which hotel guests may check in and occupy sleeping rooms.
Check-Out	Procedure for hotel guest departure of their sleeping room including account settlement.
Check-Out Time	Time set by facility when hotel guests are required to vacate sleeping rooms.
Chef’s Choice	Selection of food items to best complement the entrée. The selection is being left up to the chef.
Chef’s Table	The opportunity to sample a menu in advance of the event, usually in the company of the chef. Also refers to a food event held in the kitchen where the attendees interact with the chef and kitchen staff.
Chemise	With skins, as in boiled potatoes in their skins.
Cherries Jubilee	Flaming dessert served over vanilla ice cream.
Cherry Picker	Equipment capable of lifting a person or persons to a given height. See HIGH JACKER. See Also MAN LIFT, JLG, SCISSOR LIFT, GENIE LIFT, HI LOW, FORKLIFT. See Also High Jacker , Man Lift , JLG , Scissor Lift , Genie Lift , HI LOW , Forklift/Forktruck
Chevron	Type of cloth used for backdrops.
Chevron Set-Up	Seating arrangement in which chairs are arranged in rows slanted in a V shape and separated by a center aisle. They face the head table or speaker. See HERRINGBONE SET-UP. See Also V-SHAPE SET-UP. See Also Herringbone Set-Up , V-Shape Set-Up
Chief Executive Officer	CEO. The principal officer responsible for overall administration of an organization.
Chief Financial Officer	CFO. Executive responsible for financial affairs of an organization.
Chief Operating Officer	COO. Executive responsible for day-to-day operations of an organization.
Chiffonade	Foods served with shredded vegetables, such as lettuce salads with shredded carrots and/or red cabbage.
Chinoise	French word for Chinese.
Chipping	Distortion of audio signals caused by input signal peaks or voltage amplitudes which cause a circuit to attempt to exceed its own maximum voltage capabilities.
CHME	Certified Hospitality Marketing Executive. A certification program offered by the Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International. www.hsmai.org
Chop Suey	Chinese stew, with meat or fish, plus bamboo sprouts, onions, rice and water chestnuts.
Chow Mein	Chinese dish of bean sprouts, celery, mushrooms, and a meat or fish served over crispy or pan-fried soft noodles.
CIC	Convention Industry Council (formerly the Convention Liaison Council). A federation of national and international organizations representing individuals, firms or properties involved in the meetings, conventions, exhibitions and travel and tourism industries.
CIF	Cost, Insurance, Freight. A pricing term indicating that these costs are included in the quoted price.
CIF&C	Cost, Insurance, Freight, and Commission. A pricing term indicating that these costs are included in the quoted price.
CIF&E	Cost, Insurance, Freight, and Exchange. A pricing term indicating that these costs are included in the quoted price.
Cioppino	An Italian fish stew made from tomatoes, white wine, and clams, shrimp, crab, calamari, swordfish, fresh basil and garnished with a garlic crouton.
Circle Trip	A journey with stopovers that returns to the point of departure without retracting its route.
Circline	Circular fluorescent fixture.
CITE	Certified Incentive Travel Executive. A designation offered by the Society of Incentive & Travel Executives (SITE).
City Central	Association of American Federation of Labor - Congress of Industrial Organizations (AFL-CIO) local unions in a city or metropolitan area.
City Guide	A freelance guide who comes aboard a motorcoach to give an informed overview of the city or attraction to be toured.
City Tour	A sightseeing trip through a city, usually lasting a half-day or full day, during which a guide points out that city’s highlights. See TOUR. See Also Tour
Citywide Event	An event that requires the use of a convention center or event complex, as well as multiple hotels in the host city.
Clamp-On Fixture	Electrical fixture with C-clamp device for attaching to display.
Clamp-On Lights	A light fixture that has a clamping device that allows it to attach to a wall or pole. They are 150 watts to 250 watts.
Classification	Commodity tariff used to classify shipments. Shipments are evaluated by their density, sensitivity, packaging and other criteria. Rates are assessed on a shipment after a commodity classification is established.
Classroom Set-Up	Seating arrangement in which rows of tables with chairs face the front of a room and each person has a space for writing. Also Called SCHOOLROOM SET-UP.
Classroom Table	Rectangular table, often narrower than regular tables and 30-inches high. Can be 6' or 8' long and 18- or 24-inches wide.
Clause	A detailed section of a contract pertaining to a specific issue.
Clean Bill of Lading	A receipt for goods issued by a carrier with an indication that the goods were received in apparent good order and condition, without damages or other irregularities.  See FOUL BILL OF LADING. See Also Foul Bill of Lading
Clean Draft	A draft to which no documents have been attached.
Clear Date/Time	Generally the last point in time at which an exhibitor-appointed carrier must be in line or at the dock in order to be loaded after the close of the show.
Clearance	Clear space between the passing object and sides or roof of a passageway.
Cleats	Wood strips on sides of shipping container for sliding and handling purposes. Also wood strips on a structure for attaching another fixture or structure.
Climate Neutral	Climate Neutral products or services reduce and offset the greenhouse gases generated at each stage of their life-cycle on a cradle-to-cradle basis: the sourcing of their materials, their manufacturing or production, their distribution, use, and ultimate end-of-life disposition.
Clinic	Workshop-type educational experience where participants learn by doing.
Clogged Head	Buildup of oxide on the video recorder head causing noise, breakup, or loss of picture.
Closed	See FULL HOUSE. See Also Full House
Closed Circuit Video	A video distribution system which limits reception of an image to those receivers which are directly connected to the origination point by coaxial cable or microwave link.
Closed-End	(Incentive travel) Number of winners are limited by a predetermined amount.
Closing Ceremony	Final activities at an event which occur during the closing/last session.
Closing Session	The final session of an event in which the subjects which have been discussed are summarized and possible conclusions reached and announced.
Cluster	1) Enclosed lights used to illuminate the top of film and stage sets. 2) Group of speakers mounted in auditoriums, arenas, and theaters.
CMAA	Club Managers Association of America.
CMP	1) Certified Meeting Professional. 2) Complete Meeting Package at conference centers; includes lodging, all food and beverage, support services, including audio visual equipment, room rental, etc.
Coach	1) Individual who helps develop presentation skills. 2) Class of airline service.
Coach Fare	Economy airline fare.
Coat Rack	Frame to hold wearing apparel, usually on hangers.  See GARMENT RACK. See Also Costumer. See Also Garment Rack , Costumer
Coated Stock	Paper manufactured with coatings of clay or other materials to give the base paper a smooth, often glossy, surface.
Coaxial Cable	Cable used to transmit audio and television signals.
Cobra Head Extension Cord	A two-wire extension cord that has the capability of having two of more items plugged into the end. These cords are not allowed in some convention facilities (e.g. Las Vegas) due to the possible overload and tripping of breakers. They are also considered a fire hazard.
Cocktail Attire	Men should wear nothing less formal than a blazer and slacks; for women, dressy pantsuits or short, dressier dresses.
Cocktail Table	Small round table, 15- 30 inches in diameter (38-76 centimeters) used for cocktail type parties. Also Called CABARET TABLE. See Also TUXEDO TABLE. See Also Tuxedo Table
COD	Cash on Delivery, Collection on Delivery.
CODEC	Compression/Decompression or Coder/Decoder. Videoconferencing standard, included in hardware and/or software, used to compress or code video, audio, and data signals for transmission and decompress or decode the signal at the other end of the transmission.
Coeur	(coor) Heart (e.g. 'hearts of lettuce' ).
Coffee Break	See BREAK. See Also ENERGY BREAK, REFRESHMENT BREAK. See Also Break , Energy Break , Refreshment Break
Cold Call	Sales call made without an appointment.
Collaborative Tools	Email, bulletin boards, live chat, instant messaging and other technologies that allow participants to communicate electronically with other participants.
Collateral	Assets that can be pledged to guarantee a loan. The promotional material used by the salespeople to support or corroborate the features and benefits of the item being sold.
Collection and Consolidation Service	Service performed for a shipper in which a number of LTL shipments are picked up or received and forwarded as one truckload shipment.
Collective Agreement	Written agreement between an employer and a union specifying the terms and conditions of employment for workers, the status of the union, and the procedure for settling disputes arising during the contract term.  See UNION CONTRACT. See Also Union Contract
Collective Bargaining	The process of negotiation between an employer or employers and an employee organization, union or unions to reach agreement on the terms and conditions of employment for a specified period.
Colloquium	An informal meeting for the purpose of discussion; usually of an academic or research nature and in order to ascertain areas of mutual interest through exchange of ideas. Conducted as and when convenient, but with little regularity.
Co-Location	To hold two related events at the same time and in the same place.
Color Key Proof	Proof copy for approval of color positioning.
Color Separation	See FOUR-COLOR SEPARATION. See Also Four-Color Separation
Column	A pillar in a facility which supports the roof or other structures. Usually refers to pillars in function space and exhibition halls and is typically denoted on floor plan as a solid square.
Combo	Small group of musicians such as a small jazz or dance band.
Commando Cloth	A woven fabric with a nap, similar to Duvetyne, but heavier, completely light blocking and with a coarser nap. A substitute for velour, most often used for masking drapes. See DUVETYNE. See Also Duvetyne
Commercial Invoice	An itemized statement furnished to a purchaser by a seller and usually specifying the price of goods or services and the terms of sale.
Commission	A payment to a sales representative for meeting or exceeding a sales revenue goal. Or a payment made to an individual or organization for bringing business to another individual or organization.
Commissionable Rate Commitment	A contract in which the room rate to be charged to attendees includes a commission to be paid to either the sponsoring group or a third party such as a travel agent or independent event planning or site selection organization.
Commitment	Agreement between buyer and seller to purchase/sell the particular product. See CONTRACT. See Also LETTER OF AGREEMENT. See Also Letter of Agreement , Letter of Agreement
Committee	A group of people appointed for a specific purpose.
Committee of Honor	Committee of individuals eminent in the related field whose names are lent to an event by way of endorsement.
Common Carrier	Transportation company which handles crated materials; an agency or business that is available to the public for transportation of persons, goods, or messages; usually referring to freight transportation on regularly scheduled trucks or airplanes.
Communication Center	Area in a venue for telephone, fax, Internet, telex or teleconferencing facilities.
Commuter Airline	Airline connecting small communities with large airports.
Compensation	1) Payment for a thing of value tendered or a service rendered, usually refers to base salary plus benefits, bonus and/or commission. 2) Something, usually in the form of a monetary payment, that makes up for a loss.
Complete Meeting Package	An all-inclusive plan offered by conference centers; includes lodging, all meals and support services.
Complimentary	Comp. Service, space or item provided at no charge.
Complimentary Ratio	The number of rooms provided at no cost based on the number of occupied rooms.
Complimentary Registration	Waiver of registration fees.
Complimentary Room	A sleeping room or function room provided to an individual or organization at no cost. See COMPLIMENTARY RATIO. See Also Complimentary Ratio
Comprehensive Layout	Artist’s precise rendering of proposed piece showing paper and color selection, size and placement of type, illustrations and photographs.
Computer Card	See REGISTRATION CARD KEY. See Also Key Card
Computer Data Projection	The projection of a computer signal from a personal computer, laptop or other computer device onto a screen from a LCD or equivalent projector for viewing by audience. See Also LCD
Computer-Based Training	CBT. Any instructional event that can be accessed by a stand alone computer - usually CD-ROM based.
Computerized Registration	Automated registration records.
Con Carne	With meat, (e.g. 'chili con carne').
Concert Rider	See RIDER. See Also Rider
Concessions	1) Merchandise or refreshments sold on site, to individuals, in conjunction with an event. 2) Contractual agreement where one party provides something of value to the other party in exchange for something else, pending certain conditions.
Concierge	1) Facility staff which provides special services such as tickets to local events, transportation, and tour arrangements. 2) Designated area in facility providing special amenities and services to guests.
Conclave	Gathering of a group with shared or special interests.
Concurrent Sessions	Multiple sessions scheduled at the same time.  Programs on different themes or subjects offered simultaneously.
Condensed Type	Narrow or slender type permitting greater number of characters per line.
Conference	1) Participatory meeting designed for discussion, fact-finding, problem solving and consultation. 2) An event used by any organization to meet and exchange views, convey a message, open a debate or give publicity to some area of opinion on a specific issue. No tradition, continuity or periodicity is required to convene a conference. Although not generally limited in time, conferences are usually of short duration with specific objectives. Conferences are generally on a smaller scale than congresses. See CONGRESS. See Also CONVENTION. See Also Congress , Convention
Conference Call	Telephone or video connection between three or more persons.
Conference Center	A facility that provides a dedicated environment for events, especially small events. May be certified by the International Association of Conference Centers.
Conference Handbook	A manual which provides information about a conference. Contents would include descriptions of programs, information on participants, agendas, schedules of events, speaker notes, and logistical information.
Conference Officer/Organizer	Title generally conferred upon the chief administrator of the entire event.
Conference Pack/Kit	Generally a comprehensive collection of conference documentation and/or event materials within a bag, binder, envelope or folder. Also called information kit. See REGISTRATION KIT. Also CALLED REGISTRATION PACKET. See Also Registration Kit
Conference Papers	Abstracts of lectures to be presented during a conference compiled in the book of abstracts. See ABSTRACT. See Also CALL FOR PAPERS. See Also Abstract , Call for Papers
Conference Reminder	An email, bulk fax, or bulk mail broadcast that provides attendees and prospects with the latest news and information about an upcoming event. Such reminders are usually distributed on an opt-in basis. See EMAIL ALERT. See Also Email Alert
Conference Report	An official summary of conference events.
Conference Service Coordinator	Primary contact person assigned to an event in a convention center.
Conference Set-Up	Seating arrangement in which rectangular or oval tables are set up with chairs placed around all sides. It is often confused with Hollow Square Set-up. The preferred industry term is BOARDROOM SET-UP.
Configuration	1) Arrangement of seats within an aircraft. See PITCH. 2) The layout of tables, chairs and other equipment in a function room. See FLOOR PLAN. 3) Sleeping berth in a day/night compartment on a European train. See Also Pitch , Floor Plan
Confirmation	Oral or written agreement by a facility to accept a request for accommodation; to be binding the agreement must state the intent of the parties, the particular date, the rate, type of accommodations, and the number to be accommodated; oral agreement may require a credit card number. See CONFIRMED RESERVATION. See Also Confirmed Reservation
Confirmation Letter	Letter to speakers, acknowledging that a commitment has been made between the speaker and the organization, outlining information about the event.
Confirmation Number	Proof of Registration, i.e., a reservation number that will be accepted by the hotel holding the room.
Confirmed Letter of Credit	A letter of credit, issued by a foreign bank, whose validity has been confirmed by an American bank. An exporter whose payment terms are a confirmed letter of credit is assured of payment even if the foreign buyer or the foreign bank defaults. See LETTER OF CREDIT. See Also Letter of Credit
Confirmed Reservation	Oral or written agreement by a facility to accept a request for an accommodation; to be binding the agreement must state the intent of the parties, the particular date, the rate, type of accommodations, and the number to be accommodated; oral agreement may require guest credit card number. See CONFIRMATION. See Also Confirmation
Conflict of Interest Statement	Written document requiring individuals to disclose any conflicts of interest that may be created by their involvement with an organization.
Confrontation	Efforts of a dissident group to obstruct the conduct of an event.
Congress	1) The regular coming together of large groups of individuals, generally to discuss a particular subject. A congress will often last several days and have several simultaneous sessions. The length of time between congresses is usually established in advance of the implementation stage, and can be either pluri-annual or annual. Most international or world congresses are of the former type while national congresses are more frequently held annually. 2) Meeting of an association of delegates or representatives from constituent organizations. 3) European term for convention. See CONFERENCE. See Also CONVENTION. See Also Conference , Convention
Congress Auxiliaries	Those persons who work in the congress’ auxiliary services and have been identified by the organizer and the contracted firm (if any) whose names are clearly stated in a previously prepared register.
Congress Card	Admission card confirming a booking and registration to an event. See ADMISSION CARD. See Also Admission Card
Congress Travel Agent	Travel agent specializing in handling incoming or outgoing event participants and additional travel arrangements including pre- and post-tours.
Connecting Rooms	Two or more guestrooms with private connecting doors permitting access between rooms without having to go into the corridor.
Consecutive Interpretation	Oral translation of several phrases or entire speeches from one language to another. Speaker pauses between phrases to allow for interpretation. See INTERPRETATION, INTERPRETATION IN RELAY, SIMULTANEOUS INTERPRETATION, TRANSLATION, WHISPERED INTERPRETATION, WIRELESS INFRARED INTERPRETING SYSTEM. See Also Interpretation , Interpretation in Relay , Simultaneous Interpretation , Translation , Whispered Interpretation , Wireless Infrared Interpreting System
Consideration	The inducement to a contract. The cause, motive, price, or impelling influence which induces a contracting party to enter a contract.
Consignee	Recipient. The person, people, or organization to whom something is delivered or addressed. Compare with CONSIGNOR. See Also Consignor
Consignment	Delivery of merchandise from a seller (the consignor) to an agent (the consignee) under agreement that the agent sell the merchandise for the account of the seller. The consignor retains title to the goods until the consignee has sold them. The consignee sells the goods for commission and remits the net proceeds to the consignor.
Consignor	A person who sends freight. Compare with CONSIGNEE. See Also Consignee
Consolidate	1) Shipping freight to a central depot where several loads bound for the same destination are put together before being shipped to that destination. 2) Merging events, jobs, tasks, etc.
Consortium	A loosely knit group of independently owned and managed companies, e.g. destination management companies (DMCs), tour operators, hotels, etc., with a joint marketing and distribution process.
Construction Drawing	A drawing that gives detailed diagrams and instructions for building an exhibit.
Consular Declaration	A formal statement, made to the consul of a country, describing goods to be shipped.
Consular Invoice	A document, required by some countries, describing a shipment of goods and showing information such as the consignor, consignee, and value of the shipment. Certified by a consular official of the foreign country, it is used by that country’s customs officials to verify the value, quantity, and nature of the shipment.
Consultant	Individual who provides counsel and assistance to a client on specific assignments. For very large projects, a consulting firm may be retained rather than a individual.
Consumer Show	Exhibition that is open to the public, usually requiring an entrance fee. See EXHIBITION. See Also GATE SHOW, PUBLIC SHOW. Compare With TRADE SHOW. See Also Exhibition , Gate Show , Public Show , Trade Show
Consummé	(con sue may) Clear soup, served hot or chilled.
Contact Cement	Bonding agent usually used for cementing plastic laminates to wood.
Contact Management System	A software program that matches contacts with prospects.
Container Detention	A charge that is assessed when the container is removed from the carrier’s control but is not returned within the allowable free time. See PIER DEMURRAGE. See Also Pier Demurrage
Content	The educational component of an event. See CONFERENCE. See Also Conference
Continental Breakfast	Light morning meal consisting of pastries, juices, and hot beverages. Usually served buffet style.
Continental Buffet	Buffet consisting of pastries, juices, and hot beverages.
Continental Plan	A room rate that includes a continental breakfast. See Also AMERICAN PLAN, BERMUDA PLAN, DEMI-PENSION, EUROPEAN PLAN, MODIFIED AMERICAN PLAN. See Also American Plan , Bermuda Plan , Demi-Pension , European Plan , Modified American Plan
Continental U.S.	The contiguous 48 states, not including Alaska, Hawaii or any US Territories.
Contingency Plan	An alternative plan that may replace the original plan when circumstances change.
Continuing Education	Structured educational and training experiences for personal or professional development.
Continuing Education Unit	CEU. Requirement of many professional groups by which members must certify participation in formal educational programs designed to maintain their level of ability beyond their original certification date.  CEUs are non-academic credit.  One CEU is awarded for each 10 contact hours in an accredited program.
Continuity	Smooth flow of action and narration from scene to scene.
Contract	An agreement between two or more parties that creates in each party a duty to do or not do something and a right to performance of the other's duty or a remedy for the breach of the other's duty. See COMMITMENT. See Also LETTER OF AGREEMENT. See Also Commitment , Letter of Agreement
Contract Carrier	Trucking company that enters into a specific contract with a shipper to transport goods for an agreed-upon price. Contained within the contract are all the terms and conditions, liability, transit times, etc. The contract carrier is required to secure authorization from the DOT for such operations.
Contracting	A system in which all or part of the product or the work to be done is sublet to contractors.
Contractor	An individual or organization providing services to a trade show and/or its exhibitors. May be Official (appointed by show management) or Independent (appointed by exhibitor). Typically refers to either a general service contractor or specialty contractor. See DECORATOR. See Also A/V CONTRACTOR, DRAYAGE CONTRACTOR, EXCLUSIVE CONTRACTOR, EXHIBITION SERVICE CONTRACTOR, GENERAL SERVICE CONTRACTOR (GSC), IN-HOUSE CONTRACTOR. See Also Decorator , A/V Contractor , Drayage Contractor , Exclusive Contractor , Exhibition Service Contractor , General Service Contractor
Contractor Logistics Services	This is the transportation service division of the general show contractor. They handle/arrange for all modes of transportation (air, motor and van line), but the services are still executed by the traditional motor, van line and air carriers.
Contrast	Difference of intensity of color between light and dark areas of a picture, fabric, etc.
Contributed Paper	Written transcript provided after acceptance of the submitted abstract and usually the basis for a speech or demonstration.
Contributor	One who presents a paper, either verbally or in a visual form (e.g. a poster).
Control Track	Section of video tape which controls the speed of the tape.
Controlled Economy Countries	Countries whose governments strictly regulate the national economy.
Controversy Panel	To stimulate interest and debate, arrange for two or three views of a controversial issue to be presented.
Convener	Member of committee in charge of convening participants.
Convention	An event where the primary activity of the attendees is to attend educational sessions, participate in meetings/discussions, socialize, or attend other organized events. There is a secondary exhibit component. Compare With MEETING, EXHIBITION, TRADE SHOW, CONSUMER SHOW. See Also Meeting , Exhibition , Trade Show , Consumer Show
Convention and Visitors Bureau	CVB. Convention and visitor bureaus are not-for-profit organizations charged with representing a specific destination and helping the long-term development of communities through a travel and tourism strategy. Convention and visitor bureaus are usually membership organizations bringing together businesses that rely on tourism and events for revenue. For visitors, CVBs are like a key to the city. As an unbiased resource, CVBs can serve as a broker or an official point of contact for convention and event planners, tour operators and visitors. They assist planners with event preparation and encourage business travelers and visitors alike to visit local historic, cultural and recreational sites.
Convention Center	Facility that combines an exhibition space with a substantial number of smaller event spaces. The purpose of these buildings is to host trade shows, public shows, conventions, large food functions and other functions related to the convention industry. They may be purpose built or converted and municipally or privately owned. See EXHIBITION CENTER. See Also FACILITY, HALL. See Also Exhibition Center , Facility , Hall
Convention Rate	Rates assigned for a particular group.  This is usually a discounted rate.
Convention Services Manager	CSM. Professional at a hotel, convention center or convention bureau who is responsible for event operations management on all levels.
Convertibility	A currency is usually described as convertible if the holder can exchange it freely for another currency.
Cookie	A file sent to a Web browser by a Web server that is used to record one's activities.
Coordinating Committee	Committee in charge of coordinating the organization of the event.
Coordination Fee	A charge for professional services.
Co-President	One of two or more persons appointed as president on an equal footing with the official president.
Co-Promotion	Joint participation in the costs and profits from an event.
Copy	1) All original material being prepared for reproduction. 2) Reproduction of original material.
Copyfitting	Determining space required and type size for copy to fit allotted space.
Copyright	Federal laws that allow for the ownership of intellectual property (writings, art, music). Copy-written material cannot be used without the owner’s permission or the payment of royalty fees.
Coquilles St. Jacques	(co keel san jock) Scallops prepared in butter; served in a scalloped, shell-shaped ramekin.
Cordial	A liqueur usually served after dinner, e.g. Amaretto, Chambourd, Frangelica, etc., or a shell-shaped ramekin. See LIQUEUR. See Also Liqueur
Corkage	The charge placed on beer, liquor, and wine brought into the facility but purchased elsewhere. The charge sometimes includes glassware, ice, and mixers.
Corner Booth/Stand	An exhibit space with exposure on at least two aisles. Some organizations charge premiums for corner booths/stands.
Cornucopia	1) Pastry roll shaped like a horn, filled with whipped cream and nuts. 2) A large paper or plastic horn filled with fresh fruits spilling over onto the table. Also called a horn of plenty.
Corporate Exhibit	An institutional exhibit telling the story of the company without intentionally marketing the product or service.
Corporate Meeting	Gathering of employees or representatives of a commercial organization. Usually, attendance is required and travel, room and most meal expenses are paid for by the organization.
Corporate Planner	Meeting planner who works for a corporation.
Corporate Rate	Special rate for sleeping rooms or other goods and services that is made available to business travelers. These rates may vary by corporation, depending on the negotiated agreement.
Corporate Show	An exhibition produced by a corporation where exhibits are limited to products and services of that corporation or its marketing partners; no competitors participate. See EXHIBITION. Compare With TRADE SHOW. See Also Exhibition , Trade Show
Corporate Travel	The market segment comprised of groups or individuals that work for a given company and are traveling for business reasons at the company’s expense.
COS	Cash on Shipment.
Cost Center	An account (usually a number) to which expenses for a function or activity are charged.
Cost Charge per Square Meter/Foot	Basic charge for a particular unit of measurement.
Cost Control	Process of maintaining levels of expenditure within the budget.
Cost of Goods	The direct costs involved in producing a product or service which usually includes labor and materials.
Cost of Sales	The cost of goods plus the expenses involved in selling and delivering the product or service.
Cost Plus	Basic charges for a service plus the markup or margin to ensure margin and profit for service provider.
Costing	Process of itemizing and calculating all costs the tour operator will pay on a given tour. Usually the function of the operations manager.
Costumer	1) Hat and coat rack. 2) A person or organization that makes, sells, or rents costumes.
Couchette	Sleeping berth in a day/night compartment on a European train.
Council	Group of members responsible for establishing and enforcing the rules and regulations.
Count	1) Total number of individuals in attendance at a function or event for a given period. 2) Total number of exhibitors for a given period.
Counter	A working cabinet for display, demonstration, or registration.
Countermount	Technique for mounting material to rear of panel equal to weight and consistency to face mounted material. This prevents warping.
Countersink	Technique of recessing heads of screws and nails below the surface.
Countervailing Duty	An extra duty imposed by the U.S. Secretary of the Treasury to offset export grants, bounties, or subsidies paid to foreign suppliers in certain countries by the governments of those countries as an incentive to exports.
Country of Origin	Denotes country of parental nationality.
Coupon	Ticket which travelers exchange for prepaid services such as accommodations, meals and tours. SEE VOUCHER. See Also Voucher
Courier	European term for a travel professional who supervises arrival details and escorts tours.
Cover	1) Table setting for one person. 2) Actual number of meals, or servings, served at a food function. 3) Dome placed over a plate, used to keep food warm/cold and measure the number of meals served at a food function.
Cover Charge	A fee, usually a flat amount per person, charged to patrons to cover the cost of music and entertainment.
Cover Plate	A protective, removable panel used with self-contained exhibits in transit.
Cover Stock	Heavy-weight paper used for covers of brochures.
Covered Area	Any area that covers an exhibit space and prevents the building fire sprinkler from discharging water unobstructed to the floor. This includes single story exhibits with ceilings, upper deck exhibits, roofs, overhead lighting installations and any material hanging or installed overhead that is not recognized as acceptable under fire sprinkler systems fire codes.
Covers	Actual number of meals served at a catered meal function or in a restaurant. See AUDIENCE COUNT. See Also HEAD COUNT. See Also Audience Count , Head Count
CPAE	Council of Peers Award for Excellence; inductee into the CPAE Speaker Hall of Fame.
CPCE	Certified Professional Catering Executive. A certification program offered by the National Association of Catering Executives (NACE).
CR	Carrier's Risk.
Craft Union	A labor organization, the membership in which is restricted to individuals possessing or working at a specific skill or trade (e.g. diemaking, carpentry, or plumbing).
Crafting List	Names the content of what is enclosed inside a crate (e.g. exhibit pieces, carpet, etc.).
Craftsperson	A skilled individual who provides actual services on the show floor. Usually a unionized worker.
Crate	Wooden box for packing and shipping exhibits.
Crated Exhibit	An exhibit that is transported from event to event in crates (small to huge wooden boxes). Crates make handling the exhibit easier, and minimize damage during material handling. In most cases, individual pieces are jigged in place within the crates.
Crating List	Names the contents of what is enclosed inside a crate (e.g. exhibit pieces, carpet, etc.).
Crawl	Text moving horizontally across the bottom of a video screen.
Credentials Committee	Committee formed to verify that individuals have the necessary qualifications to attend a meeting or become a member of an association.
Credit	1) An item entered on creditor side of an account (opposite of “debit”). 2) To add one sum to another.
Credit Card Badge	A lead retrieval method using embossed plastic cards similar to credit cards.
Credit Risk Insurance	Insurance designed to cover risks of nonpayment for delivered goods.
Credits	Names of persons who either created or performed in a program.
Crème Brûlée	Pudding of cornstarch, eggs, milk, sugar and whipped cream served in a ramekin.
Crêpe	(crayp) Very thin pancake, used to roll up anything from meat to dessert.
Crescent-Round Set-Up	Uses 60-, 66- or 72-inch (152-, 168- and 183-centimeter) diameter rounds with seating on two thirds to three quarters of the table and no seating with its back to the speaker. Used for banquet-to-meeting or meeting-to-banquet quick set. See BUZZ SET-UP. See Also HALF SET-UP. See Also Buzz Set-Up , Half Moon Set-Up
Crew	Stagehands, technicians, truck loaders, etc.; responsible for the technical set-up of an event.
Croissant	(kwa sant) Crescent shaped French bread that is very tender, due to a lot of butter.
Crop	To use less than the full frame area of a photograph or less than the full area of art work.
Crop Mark	Indication on original art or photo defining area that is to be reproduced.
Crosby	A clamp connector used with cables.
Cross Aisle	An aisle at a right angle, or perpendicular, to a main aisle.
Cross Bar	Rod used in draping or as a support brace.
Cross Dissolve	Gradual changing of one picture or sound or color to another.
Cross Face	Smooth change from one color or image to another.
Cross Fade	Change from one scene to another in which visual images are blended together and one image fades out as another fades in. See DISSOLVE. See Also Dissolve
Crosstalk	Undesired sound from radio devices infringing upon the sound system, typically heard as bleed-over between left and right stereo speakers, or as leakage of high-frequency sound between busses or circuits in audio mixers, microphone cable snakes and multiple circuit audio signal wiring.
Cru	Raw, uncooked.
Crudités	1) Pieces of raw vegetables served as hor d’oeuvres, often with dip. 2) Raw vegetable salad, usually julienne cut.
Crumber	An implement used to clean the crumbs from in front of the guest between dinner and dessert.
CSEP	Certified Special Event Professional; an earned designation from the International Special Events Society (ISES).
CSM	Convention Services Manager. Professional at a hotel, convention center or convention bureau who is responsible for event operations management on all levels.
CSP	Certified Speaking Professional; an earned designation from the National Speakers Association (NSA).
CTC	Certified Travel Counselor.
CTLO	Constructive Total Loss Only.
CTP	Certified Travel Professional.
CTSM	Certified Trade Show Marketer.
Cube	Area occupied by an exhibit within a trailer, determined by multiplying the exhibit’s length, times width, times height.
Cube Taps	Three way plugs for combining electrical cords. (Note: cube taps are illegal by fire code in some facilities.)
Cubic Content	The use of exhibit properties in the airspace over the entire leased area above a height of eight feet or more.
Cue	Visual or aural signal to elicit response or action.
Cue Card	Off-stage card that displays script to performers on stage in order to prompt lines. See CAMERA CARD. See Also IDIOT CARD. See Also Camera Card , Idiot Card
Cue Channel	Portion of the audio signal-carrying channels in a system that is used to allow musicians to hear other performers or portion of the ensemble sound in order to match pitch or tempo.
Cueing	1) Assigning cue numbers to various elements of a production. 2) Setting audio tape or video film at a specific point.
Cultural Services	A service concerned with organizing activities which are mainly related to the artistic and intellectual side of civilization.
Currant	Small piquant berry used for jellies, or dried and used like raisins.
Current Assets	Assets that can be converted quickly to cash. e.g. marketable securities, notes, inventories, account receivables.
Current Liabilities	All debts incurred in the normal day-to-day business and due within one calendar year.
Curriculum Vita	A document similar to a resume and is often referred to as a “vita.” It highlights a speaker’s education and key jobs held. A speaker in the academic community usually uses a curriculum vita.
Custom Exhibit	An exhibit which is unique to the specific requirements of the user.
Custom Fabricated Exhibit	An exhibit that is individually designed and built with a wide range of materials.
Custom House	An individual or firm licensed to enter and clear goods through customs.
Custom Menu	Menu specifically created for a client.
Customized Tour	A TOUR designed to fit the specific needs of a particular target audience. See Also Tour
Customs	1) The governmental authorities designated to collect duties levied by a country on imports and exports. The term also applies to the procedures involved in such collection. 2) Practices common to many of a particular group.
Customs Broker	An individual or company which provides customs clearing services to shippers of goods to and from another country. Licensing and requirements vary from country to country. In the United States, a customs broker must be licensed by the Treasury Department and pass a government examination covering a broad range of knowledge, including all phases of import regulations, rates of duties, and customs law.
Customs Cooperation Council, Nomenclature of	See BRUSSELS TARIFF NOMENCLATURE. See Also Brussels Tariff Nomenclature
Cut	1) Instantaneous change from one scene to another without a fade-in or fade-out. 2) Signal to interrupt or cancel.
Cut & Lay	Installation of carpet other than normal booth/stand or aisle size.
Cut Out	Profile cut display item (e.g. letters, photos, etc.).
Cut Rate	Cost per hundred weight.
Cutline	Text identifying a photograph; caption.
Cut-Off Date	Designated date when the facility will release a block of sleeping rooms to the general public.   The date is typically three to four weeks before the event. See RESERVATION REVIEW DATE. See Also Reservation Review Date
Cut-Off Time	Hour when a non-guaranteed reservation must be filled or it may be cancelled.
Cut-Off Time	A specific point in time at which the exhibition contractor will cease (for the day) all unloading or loading activities. In transportation environment this refers to the specific time a shipment must be tendered to a carrier in order to receive service that day. For example, a flight that departs at 10:00 p.m. may have a cargo cut-off time of 7:00 p.m.
Cutting Sheet	Drawings made by carpentry shops, detailing size and shape of raw material to be cut. See TEMPLATE. See Also Template
CVA	Convention & Visitors Authority. See also CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU. See Also Convention and Visitors Bureau
CVB	Convention and Visitors Bureau. Convention and visitor bureaus are not-for-profit organizations charged with representing a specific destination and helping the long-term development of communities through a travel and tourism strategy. Convention and visitor bureaus are usually membership organizations bringing together businesses that rely on tourism and events for revenue. For visitors, CVBs are like a key to the city. As an unbiased resource, CVBs can serve as a broker or an official point of contact for convention and event planners, tour operators and visitors. They assist planners with event preparation and encourage business travelers and visitors alike to visit local historic, cultural and recreational sites.
CWT	Abbreviation for "hundred weight." This is the unit of measure used in drayage and freight shipments.
CYC	See CYCLORAMA. See Also Cyclorama
Cycles	The amount of "movement" in electrical current. International standard is 50 cycles; in U.S., 60 cycles.
Cyclorama	1) Platforms of varying heights used together to create a stage, such as the rows of steps a choral group would use during a performance. See DAIS. See Also RISER, PODIUM. 2) Stage background scene giving illusion or depth. Also called CYC. See Also Dais , Riser , Podium
D/B/A	Doing Business As
DA	Distribution Amplifier. Amplifier which increases the amplitude of a signal in a line in order to distribute it to multiple points of use.
Daily Newsletter	Daily information sheet for participants during event. See SHOW DAILY. See Also Show Daily
Dais	Raised platform usually above the floor of a hall or large room. See PODIUM. See Also RISER. See Also Podium , Riser
Damage Clause	Part of a contract dealing with procedures, penalties, and rights of the party causing damages.
Damask	Woven silk or linen fabric used for napery (napkins and tablecloths).
Dance Floor	Area for dancing, can be carpeted when not used for dancing. Portable dance floors come in 3 foot x 3 foot sections.
Dark	A day on which a facility or hall has no events or performances booked. Monday is the traditional dark day for theaters.
DAT	Digital Audio Tape
Data Projection	See COMPUTER DATA PROJECTION. See Also Computer Data Projection
Data Projector	A self-contained unit with a LCD panel, light source and lens that works with both PC and Mac computers and duplicates the image being shown on the monitor without any need for special software or complex setting up. See LCD PROJECTOR. See Also LCD
Database	A collection of all information on all prospects (attendees and exhibitors).
Date Draft	A draft document, such as a contract, which matures a specified number of days after the date it is issued, without regard to the date of acceptance.
Date Protection	A guarantee that the dates an event organizer has selected for an event in a specific facility are reserved for that organizer.
Day Glo	Trademarked name for iridescent paints or inks that glow.
Dead Areas	Areas where sound is muted or absent.
Dead End Flight	Last leg of a flight.
Dead Time	Time during which an employee is unable to work due to factors beyond his or her control and for which he is paid.
Debate	A discussion which takes place within a meeting, a public or private sitting or in one of the various types of assembly or meeting.
Debt Service	Regular payments required to keep a loan current.
Declared Value	Shipper's stated value of entire shipment in terms of dollars.
Décor	Props, lighting, and other elements used to create a theme or ambiance. Décor is used to enhance an event with elements including but not limited to carpet, pipe and drape, stage props, customized lighting, linens, tablescapes, skirting, ceiling treatments, stage sets, projection images, special effects or sound effects.
Decorating	Dressing up an area with carpet, draping, plants, etc.
Decorator	An individual or company providing installation & dismantle and booth/stand and hall dressing services for a trade show and/or its exhibitors.  Decorator services may be provided by carpenters, sign painters or others depending upon union jurisdiction.  Term applies to both contractor and skilled craftsperson. See Also I&D
Deferred Air Freight	Long haul air freight that waits for available cargo space (usually 1 to 2 days) at a reduced rate.
Deferred Airfreight/Deferred Service	Airfreight that can wait for available cargo space because of low delivery priority. Usually a three- to five-day service that moves at a reduced cost.
Deferred Rebate	A deferred rebate is the return of a portion of the freight charges by a carrier to a shipper, in exchange for the shipper giving all or most of his shipments to the carrier over a specified period of time (usually 6 months). Payment of the rebate is deferred for a further similar period during which the shipper must continue to give all or most of his shipments to the rebating carrier. The shipper thus earns a further rebate which will not, however, be paid without an additional period of exclusive or almost exclusive patronage with the carrier. In this way, the shipper becomes tied to the rebating carrier.
Definite Booking	Space reservations confirmed in writing.
Delegate	1) Person who attends an event primarily to visit exhibits or attend meetings and/or conference sessions. This excludes exhibitors, media, speakers, and companions. 2) Registered meeting participant. 3) Voting representative at a meeting.
Delegate Card	Admission card confirming a booking and registration.
Demi	Half.
Demi Tasse	Small cup of coffee, used for espresso.
Demi-Pension	A rate inclusive of breakfast and dinner, in addition to the room. In the U.S. and Canada it is called MODIFIED AMERICAN PLAN (MAP), which means breakfast and one other meal (usually dinner). See Also AMERICAN PLAN, BERMUDA PLAN, CONTINENTAL PLAN, EUROPEAN PLAN. See Also Modified American Plan , American Plan , Bermuda Plan , Continental Plan , European Plan
Demographics	Characteristics that help create a profile of exhibitors and attendees. May include company location, job function, purchase budget, purchase intentions.
Demonstration	1) The act of showing how to do something.  2) A group of individuals organized to picket or protest against a group using placards, literature, songs, shouts and, sometimes, marches or sit-ins.
Demonstrator	Person hired to work in a booth/stand demonstrating or explaining products.
Denied Boarding  Compensation	Refund of airfare or payment to passenger when airline fails to honor a confirmed reservation within two hours of scheduled departure.
Density	Pounds per cubic foot, determined by mathematical formula where the weight of an article or shipment is divided by the cubic feet it occupies.
Departure Date	Date when majority of event participants check out of a facility.
Departure Tax	Fee collected from traveler by host country at time of departure.
Deposit	An advanced partial payment to secure product or service.
Depreciation	The gradual erosion of the usability and value (possibly due to obsolescence) of an organization's fixed assets. In some cases depreciation can be declared as a tax deduction.
Design	Artist’s concept or visualization of how a printed piece should look.
Desktop Publishing	Using a personal computer to prepare materials for printing.
Desktop  Videoconferencing	DVD. Videoconferencing on a personal computer.
Destination	A city, area or country which can be marketed to groups or individuals as a place to visit or hold an event.
Destination City	A city which in and of itself is an attraction, e.g. Orlando or San Francisco.
Destination Control Statement	Any of various statements which the U.S. Government requires to be displayed on export shipments and which specify the destinations for which the shipment has been authorized. Also Called ANTIDIVERSION CLAUSE.
Destination Management  Company	DMC. A professional services company possessing extensive local knowledge, expertise and resources, specializing in the design and implementation of events, activities, tours, transportation and program logistics. Depending on the company and the staff specialists in the company, they offer, but are not limited to, the following: creative proposals for special events within the meeting; guest tours; VIP amenities and transportation; shuttle services; staffing within convention centers and hotels; teambuilding, golf outings and other activities; entertainment, including sound and lighting; décor and theme development; ancillary meetings and management professionals; and, advance meetings and onsite registration services and housing. See Also Professional Congress Organizer , Ground Operator
Destination Manager	Local on-site coordinator.
Detail Drawing	Drawing showing method of construction, plan views, elevations, floor ports, drains, etc.
Dialogue	Discussion of ideas and opinions.
Die Cut	Method of producing repetitive cutout shapes in quantity.
Diffuser	An open grid or a solid translucent plastic to soften or conceal light sources.
Digital Subscriber Line	DSL. Provides high-speed access to the Internet via telephone lines. DSL service requires a DSL modem.
Digital Video	Capture, manipulation and storage of video in digital format on a computer. Can be displayed on a computer as part of a graphic presentation.
Dimensional Weight	Generally refers to air-freight and van line shipments. Invoices are calculated with two weights, actual and dimensional. The dimensional weight is based upon the volume of the shipment. The billing weight is the larger of the two.
Dimmer	A device to control light intensity. See RHEOSTAT. See Also Rheostat
Dimmer Board	A combination of switches, dimmer plates and fuses for controlling light. See SWITCHBOARD. See Also Switchboard
Dine Around	Use of a number of restaurants in a destination with reservations and billing arrangements to one particular client.
Dinner	Evening meal for a group; not usually ceremonial.
Direct Billing	Accounts receivable made available to individuals or firms with established credit.
Direct Flight	Flight between two points on the same aircraft. There may be stops, but no plane changes.
Direct Lighting	The aiming of a fixture directly at the object/area to be illuminated.
Direct Mail	A marketing technique in which material is mailed directly to individuals in a target audience.
Direct Sales Method	Selling direct to the end user with promotional efforts using advertising, direct mail or telephone sales.
Direct Spending	All expenditures associated with an event that flow into the host destination’s local economy. Direct spending includes attendee spending, exhibitor spending and event organizer spending. See Also ECONOMIC IMPACT, INDIRECT SPENDING, & INDUCED SPENDING. See Also Economic Impact (Total) , Indirect Spending , Induced Spending
Directional Signs	Signs directing attendees to an exhibit, event or special area.
Directory	1) The printed document passed out to event attendees that includes a list of conference sessions, exhibitor descriptions, a floor plan and other information. 2) An alphabetized list of members with contact information.
Disability	A physical or mental impairment that limits normal life functions.
Discussion Form	Paper containing an application to put a question during a conference session to a particular speaker on a specific subject; usually submitted in advance of the session.
Discussion Group	1) A group of participants in a separate debate within some types of meetings. Similar to a working group but with no expectation of reports or papers. 2) A threaded bulletin board where participants can post messages under the heading of a particular topic and responses are grouped by topic or thread.  Groups are asynchronous, not occurring in real-time.
Discussion Leader	Person who introduces topic of discussion and controls the discussion in the group. Moderator.
Dishonored Reservation	If a hotel accepts a reservation but can't provide a room, the hotel has breached the contract and the injured guest is owed damages. The usual term is for the guest to be compensated for the first night to stay at the second hotel and usually reimbursement for transportation between the hotel and the second hotel. See HOTEL RESERVATION. See Also Hotel Reservation
Dismantle	1) Take-down and removal of exhibits. 2) To take apart.
Dismantling Deadline	The time and day by which booths/stands have to be dismantled and removed from an exhibition area.
Dispatcher	Person responsible for scheduling and routing freight, labor, shuttle busses, etc.
Display	An arrangement of products or informational material.
Display Builder	Company or person that fabricates displays.
Display Case	See SHOWCASE. See Also Showcase
Display Material	The material exhibited by the various exhibitors. Such material is usually insured or has its value stated in writing for insurance purposes.
Display Place	Exhibit booth/stand.
Display Rules & Regulations	A set of specifications for exhibit construction endorsed by all major exhibit industry associations. Also refers to the individual additional rules which may be adopted by event management.
Dispute	A conflict or difference of opinion between an employer and a union or between an employer and employees over some phase of their relationship. Usually refers to a serious controversy that threatens or causes a work stoppage or that is submitted to an arbitrator or government agency for settlement.
Dissolve	See CROSS FADE. See Also Cross Fade
Dissolve Unit	Device that activates fade-out and fade-in of slides from one projector to another.
Distance Learning	A type of education where students work on their own at home or from an office, and communicate with faculty and other students via email, electronic forums, chat, webconferencing and other forms of online communication.  Includes correspondence courses, audio, video and internet delivery. Meeting and event Web sites can facilitate distance learning by offering online educational programs.
Distribution Channel	The path a product follows to be delivered to the end user. This may be through distributors, retail outlets, self service outlets, vending machines, telephone sales, direct mail sales, etc.
Distributor	An enterprise that purchases products for resale to their customers who are usually retail outlets. The distributor expects to receive a significant price discount for providing the distribution service.
Distributor Show	An exhibition produced by a distributor at which exhibitors are the manufacturers of products sold by the distributor and attendees are the distributor's customers. See EXHIBITION. See Also TRADE SHOW. See Also Exhibition , Trade Show
Divider	Movable barrier that partitions a large area into smaller areas. May be sound resistant, but not necessarily sound proof. See AIR WALL. See Also MOVABLE WALL, PARTITION. See Also Air Wall , Movable Wall , Partition
DMC	Destination Management Company. See Also DESTINATION MANAGEMENT COMPANY. See Also Destination Management  Company
DMC Consortium	National and/or international alliances of destination management companies who form select communities for the purpose of sharing collective efforts for business sharing, education, ethics and destination management industry monitoring.
DMCP	Destination Management Certified Professional. An accreditation offered by the Association of Destination Management Executives (ADME).
Docent	Tour guide in a museum, educational facility or art gallery.
Dock	A place where freight is loaded onto, and taken from, vessels or vehicles.
Dock Receipt	A receipt issued by an ocean carrier to acknowledge receipt of a shipment at the carrier's dock or warehouse facilities. When delivery of a foreign shipment is completed, the dock receipt is surrendered to the vessel operator or his agent and serves as the basis for the preparation of the OCEAN BILL OF LADING. See WAREHOUSE RECEIPT. See Also Ocean Bill of Lading , Warehouse Receipt
Dock Usage	Instructions on the allotment of a loading dock’s space and time required for loading and unloading of trucks for an event. This information should be included in the specifications guide for an event.
Document Sharing	A feature of many videoconference systems that allows participants at each conference site to view and edit the same document.
Dog Bone	A 1’ five wire cord that is used to help transfer high voltage power to 120 volt power on the BCP.
Dog House	An electrical outlet that will accommodate 6 plugs.  See SEX (SIX) BOX. See Also Sex Box
Dolly	Any of several kinds of low, flat, wheeled frames for transporting heavy objects.
Dolma	Stuffed grape leaves.
Domestic Beer/Wine	Beer or wine produced in the country where it is served.
Donation	Sum of money or item of value received as a gift or contribution.
Donkey Dick	A metal pole placed on the front of a forklift for carrying rolls of carpet.
DOS	Director of Sales.
DOT	Department of Transportation. In the United States, on the national level, the Federal Department of Transportation is a government agency responsible for safety, interstate highways and interstate commerce matters.
DOT	Department of Transportation.
Double	A guestroom assigned to two people.
Double Bed	Bed measuring 53-by-75 inches (135-by-191 centimeters).
Double Booking	1) Reserving space for two groups to use the same space at the same time and neither can be fully accommodated as contracted. 2) An organization reserving space in more than one venue for the same event. 3) Two or more reservations made for the same traveler for the same dates. Can be canceled by the airlines if discovered as they consider this a violation of their ticketing rules.
Double Cloth	Use of two tablecloths on a banquet table for decorative purposes, to muffle sound, or to attach skirting to.  Usually two different colors are used.  See OVERLAY. See Also Overlay
Double Decker	Two-storied exhibit. See MULTI-STORY EXHIBIT. See Also Multi-Story Exhibit
Double Lock	Two locks, one a dead bolt, on a door for extra security.
Double Room	A sleeping room occupied by two persons. The room may have one or more beds of any type in it. The symbol used by APEX to denote it is:
Double Room Rate	The price per person for a sleeping room to be shared with another person.
Double Width	Two tables placed together, allowing extra room in a BOARDROOM SET-UP. See Also Boardroom Set-Up
Double-Double Room	A sleeping room with two beds that is occupied by two persons. The symbol used by APEX to denote it is:
Double-Faced Panel	A panel of wood or other material that is finished, or not rough, on both sides.
Double-Faced Tape	Tape used to adhere carpet to floor, signs, or panels.
Doubletime	Premium pay, which is double the base rate of hourly wage.
Doubling	Playing, by musicians, of more than one instrument during an engagement.
Downgrade	To move to a lesser accommodation or class of service.
Downlighting	The use of lighting instruments to light down onto objects below.
Downline Space	On a multi-leg itinerary, the flights following first flight.
Downlink	The station which receives data transmissions from a communications satellite.
Download	Transfer a file from a host computer to your computer.
Downstage	Front of the stage, closest to the audience.
Draft	Bill of Exchange. An unconditional order in writing from one person (the drawer) to another (the drawee), directing the drawee to pay a specified amount to a named payee at a fixed or determinable future date.
Drain Line	Pipe that drains water. Usually used on the exhibit floor for displays that require water.
Dram Shop Laws	In the United States, a legal term for laws covering the liability of people serving alcoholic beverages. Under dram shop laws, a party injured by an intoxicated person can sue establishments contributing to that person’s intoxication. Many dram shop laws also cover serving alcohol to a minor.
Draped Booth/Stand	A booth/stand made up of back wall and sidewall of pipe and drape (typically provided by management).
Draper	Person who installs drapes, pleats, and special decor.
Drapery	Decoratively arranged tablecloths or skirting on the front of head tables and around reception and buffet tables.
Drapes	Decorative material, usually hung on pipe frames to partition an area, adorn a room, or provide privacy.
Draping	Decorating with drapes.
Drawback	A refund of duties paid on imported goods that is provided at the time of their re-exportation.
Drayage	Delivery of exhibit materials from the dock to an assigned exhibit space, removing empty crates, returning crates at the end of the event for recrating, and delivering materials back to dock for carrier loading.
Drayage Charge	The cost of moving exhibit materials within the confines of the exhibit hall, based on weight. This charge is calculated in 100-pound units, or hundredweight, abbreviated cwt. (There is usually a minimum charge for all drayage.)
Drayage Contractor	Company responsible for handling exhibit materials.
Drayage Form	Form for exhibitor requesting handling of materials.
Drayer	Official event handler designated to move exhibits from truck to dock to booth space. Usually handled by general service contractor.
Dress	1) Clothing worn by talent. 2) Dress rehearsal; final camera rehearsal. 3) Set dressing; necessary set properties. 4) To neatly arrange cables lying on the floor.
Dress Casual	Collared shirts, sweaters, turtlenecks, blazers and slacks, such as khakis or corduroys for men; casual dresses or slacks, sweaters and blouses for women.  No shorts, jeans, t-shirts, flip flops, etc. See FRIDAY CASUAL. See Also Friday Casual
Dress Code	Required or suggested acceptable manner or style of dress for an occasion or event.
Dressed Lumber	Term referring to lumber that has been sanded or smoothed down to less than its rough dimensions.
Dressing	1) Sauce for salads; stuffing in poultry. 2) Decor, costumes.
Dressing the Exhibit	Placing graphics, plants, literature and applying any finishing touches to the display.
Drive-In Instructions	Directions informing a venue or facility of the number of event participants expected to travel by automobile an event, in order to ensure adequate parking and bell staffing. This information should be included in the specifications guide for an event.
Driver	Another name for loudspeaker; the word “driver” is used by non-engineers to designate a compression driver like those used to drive horns for acoustic amplification and directional control of sound.
Drop	Large, painted piece of material used for stage background.
Drop Slot	Opening in countertop to receive cards.
Drop Time	The time at which passengers have been dropped off and vehicle service ends.
Drop-Off Food	Self-service hot and/or cold foods are prepared at one location and then delivered to the event site at a different location.
Dropout	Momentary loss of recorded audio or video signal during playback, due to imperfections in the tape.
Dry	Audio signal or sound without reverberation. An audio signal or sound with reverb is called “wet.” See Also Wet
Dry Lease	Rental of a plane without crew, supplies, fuel, and maintenance service.
Dry Run	Rehearsal or trial run-through of program.
Dry Snacks	Finger foods, such as peanuts, pretzels, potato chips, and corn chips, usually served at receptions.
DSL	Digital subscriber line. Brings high bandwidth via copper phone lines.
DSM	District Sales Manager.
DT Labor	Work performed on overtime and charged at twice the published rate.
du Jour	Of the day, e.g. soup du jour or vegetable du jour.
Dual Podiums	Placing two identical podiums at stage right and stage left, so that they can be used with multiple speakers or presenters. See PODIUM. See Also LECTERN. See Also Podium , Lectern
Dual Projection	The projection of two images at a time using two separate projectors and two screens.
Dual Set-Up	Arrangement of duplicate set-ups in two or more different locations.
Dualing Menus	Split (dual) entrées, e.g. Surf & Turf.
Dub	1) To transfer recorded sound from one unit to another. 2) Copy of a recording or Tape.
Duchess Potatoes	Potatoes mashed with eggs and squeezed through a pastry tube.  Can be served as a side dish, or used to pipe decoration around a serving platter.
Duct Tape	Tape used to adhere carpet edges to floor or to cover wires and cables on a carpet. See CARPET TAPE. See Also GAFFER'S TAPE. See Also Carpet Tape , Gaffer’s Tape
Dummy	Mock-up of printed pieces as they should appear in the final form, made up of the correct size and number of pages, showing the position of the various text elements and illustrations.
Dump	See BONEYARD. See Also Boneyard
Duo	Two performers or musicians.
Duoserve Property	A hotel property in which logistics are handled by the convention services manager (CSM), with catering handled by a separate manager.
Duotone	Photograph prepared for two-color reproduction.
Dupe	Duplicate. Copy of film or tape which has been printed from the original copy.
Duplex Outlet	Double electrical outlet.
Duty	1) Fee levied on imported and exported goods. Duties are generally based on the value of the goods (ad valorem duties), some other factors such as weight or quantity (specific duties), or a combination of value and other factors (compound duties). 2) Actions required by one's occupation. See AD VALOREM TAX. See Also Ad Valorem Tax
Duty Roster	List outlining hourly schedules and responsibilities of all event staff members.
Duty-Free Imports	Item amounts and categories specified by a government that are free of tax or duty charges when brought into the country.
Duvetyne	A woven fabric with a nap, similar to Commando Cloth, but lighter and with a finer nap. A substitute for velour, most often used for masking drapes. Often misspelled as duvatyne, duventyne, and duvetine.
DVC	Desktop videoconferencing.
DVD	Digital Video Disk - holds more data than a CD Disk.
Dye Transfer	Technique of producing full color, accurate color prints.
Dynamic Range	Difference, in decibels, between the loudest and the quietest passages in a musical or audio program. Also, the difference between the maximum signal level that can be produced under nominal operating distortion levels by an electronic circuit, and that circuit’s obnoxious noise level (called the “noise floor”).
E&O Insurance	Errors and Omissions Insurance. See ERRORS AND OMISSIONS INSURANCE. See Also Errors and Omissions Insurance
E&OK	Errors and Omissions Excepted.
EAC	Exhibitor-Appointed Carrier. See EXHIBITOR-APPOINTED CARRIER. See Also Exhibitor-Appointed Carrier
EAC	Exhibitor Appointed Contractor. Any company other than the designated "official" contractor providing a service to an exhibitor.
EAON	Except As Otherwise Noted.
Early Arrival	1) To reach your destination before the appointed date or time. 2) When a hotel guest with a confirmed reservation requests to check in to his/her room prior to the scheduled date and/or check-in time. 3) Arrival prior to arrival of the majority of the group.
Early Registration	Registration received before a pre-definite date, usually offering a lower fee.
Early-Out	A guest who checks out of a housing facility (hotel, motel, etc.) one or more days earlier than his or her scheduled departure date. Also Called UNDER-STAY, UNEXPECTED DEPARTURE. Compare With OVERSTAY. See Also Overstay
Easel	Three-or four-legged stand with a rack used to display cork board, magnetic board, posters, signs, charts, or other objects.
EBITDA	Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation and Amortization.  A measure of an enterprise’s net income.
EC	European Community.
ECB	Event-Contracted Block. See also EVENT-CONTRACTED BLOCK. See Also Event-Contracted Block
Echo	Any or all audibly discrete delayed sound images. In contrast, reverberation produces a wash of sound, with no discrete echoes.
Echo Buss	Typically, a dedicated audio channel within an audio mixing console, through which a signal intended to be sent or received to or from an echo or reverberation device (e.g. an echo chamber) is routed.
Éclair	(ee clare) Oblong puff pastry filled with custard or whipped cream and topped with chocolate.
e-Commerce	1) Electronic commerce. 2) Buying and selling products and services while online over the internet.
Economic Impact (Total)	The total value of an event. Events generate secondary spending (indirect and induced) on the host destination’s local economy over and above the original direct spending. These secondary impacts, when combined with the original direct spending, result in the total economic impact of an event. See Also DIRECT SPENDING, INDIRECT SPENDING, & INDUCED SPENDING. See Also Direct Spending , Indirect Spending , Induced Spending
Economic Multiplier	Total economic impact divided by direct spending. See Also ECONOMIC IMPACT, DIRECT SPENDING. See Also Economic Impact (Total) , Direct Spending
ECU	European Currency Unit. Currency unit of the European Community.
EDAC	Exhibit Display Association of Canada.
EDC	Exhibitor Designated Contractor. See EAC. See Also EAC
Edge Light	Technique of illuminating engraved lines in glass or plastic by transmitting light through edge of material.
Editing	Correcting and/or improving final copy before typesetting.
EDPA	Exhibit Designers and Producers Association. A member of the Convention Industry Council.
Educational Conference Center	Facility that is affiliated with a campus or university.
Educational Meeting	An event held for the purpose of teaching information.
Educational Program	Substantive instructional content at an event.
Educational Session	Time period during which information or instruction is presented.
Educational Visit	Tour of place or location by a group of individuals with a common interest in the subject matter visited ( i.e., work place or manufacturing plant). See STUDY MISSION. See Also Study Mission
EE	Errors Excepted.
Effects	Effects devices can be broadly classified as anything that changes the sound of signals passing through them.
Effects Projector	Device combining theatrical projector with variable throw, and rotating decorated lens; used to project ripples, waves, clouds, etc.
Efficiency	1) Sleeping room at a housing facility with food preparation amenities. 2) The ratio of input and output usually expressed in a percent. For example, a loudspeaker, which produces 8 acoustic watts when fed 100 electrical watts, is 8% efficient.
EFX	Special Effects.
Egg Foo Yung	Chinese pancake which includes eggs, bean sprouts, subgum (mushrooms) and often either pork, shrimp or chicken.
Eggcrate	Construction technique of joining two materials by notching both and inserting slots into each other.
Eggplant	A member of the nightshade family, related to the potato and tomato, actually a berry. There are many varieties and colors from dark purple to white, and range from 2 to 12 inches and from oblong to round. The most common in the U.S. is the large, pear-shape variety with a smooth, glossy, dark purple skin.  Japanese or Asian eggplants are very narrow and range in color from solid purple to striated shade. Italian or baby eggplant looks like a miniature version of the common large variety, is more delicate skin and flesh.
Eggs Benedict	Poached eggs on an English muffin, with Canadian bacon (or ham) and hollandaise sauce.  This item holds well in hot boxes.
e-Key	Key used to prevent a guest from entering his/her room.
e-Learning	The use of an electronically based network or Internet technology to design, deliver, select and extend learning. Included in this category are TV and satellite broadcasts, Internet delivered video-on-demand, audio-on demand, and any other computer-based form of learning and training.
Electric Eye	A device that creates a light beam, the interruption of which will activate a relay switch for control of a desired animation.
Electric Pointer	Laser device which a speaker uses to cast an illuminated spot on the wall, blackboard, screen, etc., to draw attention to a particular feature.
Electrical Contractor	Person or company contracted by event management to provide electrical services to exhibitors.
Electrician	A technician trained in the installation, operation and dismantling of all electrical equipment.
Electronic Blackboard	System for sending handwriting, and hand-drawn graphics, over a telephone line. The sender may use either a light pen or a digitizing tablet, and the appropriate image will appear on a television monitor at the remote location.
Electronic Crossover	See ACTIVE CROSSOVER. See Also Active Crossover
Electronic Editing	Process by which program elements are inserted and assembled on medium without physically altering the medium, e.g. video tape, CD Roms.
Electronic Payment	Payment by means of electronic funds transfer, e.g. using a credit card at a point-of-sale terminal.
Electronic Pour	System of dispensing exact amounts of liquor per drink.
Electronic Whiteboard	A system of controlling multimedia presentations by displaying computer generated images onto a white board. The board copies all information written or taped onto it, and saves, publishes or prints out the notes.
Elevated Table	Table raised to counter height. See TUXEDO TABLE. See Also COCKTAIL TABLE. See Also Cocktail Table , Tuxedo Table
Elevation	1) Height. 2) Front and side views of a scaled drawing.
Ellipsoidal Spotlight	Type of adjustable spotlight formerly known as a klieg light. It is used to light lecterns, signs and areas that need a tightly focused pool of light. See LEKO. See Also LECTERN. See Also Leko , Lectern
Email Alert	See CONFERENCE REMINDER. See Also Conference Reminder
Email Newsletter	A newsletter distributed to a subscriber list via email. Often referred to as “opt-in” or permission marketing because subscribers choose to receive the information.
Embedding	Technique of capturing object in Lucite or other materials.
Embedment	Casting in plastic. Can be done with photos and translites, or transparencies.
Embossing	Impressing letters or artwork in relief. Blind embossing is an inkless impression on blank paper.
Emcee	The master of ceremonies at a banquet or similar event. Sometimes spelled MC.
Emergency Action Plan	Procedures about how to react and respond to an emergency situation, such as medical emergencies, fire and bomb threats.
Emergency Exit	Door, clear of obstructions, designed for egress in the event of fire or panic.
Emergency Medical Plan	A formalized plan of action for handling on-site emergencies from basic first aid to fire or serious injury.
Emotional Factors	Emotions brought to class by adult learners that may help or hinder their learning.
Employer's Association	Organization of employers who band together mainly to deal with labor unions as a unified group.
Empty Sticker	The tag indicating a crate may be moved into storage. The sticker identifies the exhibitor and the return location for the crate.
en Brochette	Broiled and served on a skewer. See À LA BROCHE. See Also SHISH KEBOB. See Also a la Broche , Shish Kebob
en Casserole	Food served in the same dish in which it was baked.
en Coquille	Cooked and served in shell or shell-shaped ramekin.
en Croûte	Baked in a flaky crust (e.g. Beef Wellington).
Encryption	The translation of data into code. One of the most effective ways to achieve data security.
End Cap	An exhibit space with aisles on three sides. See PENINSULA. See Also Peninsula
Endorsement	1) To give approval or agreement to a certain subject matter or event. 2) To inscribe, as a signature or notation, on a document. 3) A provision added to an insurance policy that alters or explains its coverage. 4) The authority to reissue a ticket for travel on airlines other than the issuing carrier (the carrier on which the ticket was originally written).
Energy Break	Refreshment break where nutritious foods and beverages are served, occasionally including some form of exercise. See BREAK. See Also Break
Engagement	Used as a noun to describe a set booking or date when a buyer has secured the services of, or employed, a speaker.
Engineering	Department in a facility (hotel, convention center, etc.) responsible for operating and maintaining a building’s services systems, such as climate control, electrical, and water.
English Breakfast	A large, hearty breakfast that can include juice, hot cereal, eggs, meat (often fish), pastries with jellies and preserves, and hot beverages.
English Service	Food is brought to the table on a tray, presented to the host, who either cuts the food him/herself or chooses to have it done by the server away from the table. Vegetables are placed in bowls on the table for guests to serve themselves. See FAMILY-STYLE SERVICE. See Also Family-Style Service
Entertainment	Activity performed for the amusement and enjoyment of others.
Entertainment Program	Program of events organized for the entertainment of participants.
Entrecôte	Sirloin steak.
Entrée	Main meal course.  (In Europe, it is the term used to describe the appetizer.) With the increase in international business, it is recommended that the word entree no longer be used, in favor of main course.
Environmental Considerations	Those conditions in an event facility surrounding and affecting projection and audio quality (i.e., doors, ceiling height, etc.).
EOR	Exhibitor of Record.
Épice	Highly spiced.
EPO	Each pays own. See PAY OWN. See Also Pay Own
Equalization	The intentional alteration of levels of portions of the audio frequency spectrum to fit the requirements of frequency response defined by a listener. Traditionally, the term equalization was used to describe the replacement (always a boost) of energy lost as a result of long telephone line runs of wire, but today the term is used to describe any change in frequency response or spectral balance done intentionally by using any device, which includes circuits that can produce these changes.
Equalizer	Device used to compensate for undesired sound system characteristics or room acoustics.
Equipment Manager	A person assigned to issue and maintain accountability of equipment such as radios, uniforms, flashlights, signage, umbrellas, traffic cones, and stanchions.
Erase	1) Permanently remove information from a magnetic medium such as a videotape. 2) Delete from a computer storage device.
Erection	The set up and teardown of exhibits. See I&D. See Also I&D
Errors and Omissions Insurance	Errors and Omissions Insurance – Often referred to as E&O insurance. A form of insurance that indemnifies the insured for any loss sustained because of an error or oversight on his part.
ESCA	Exhibition Services & Contractors Association. A member of the Convention Industry Council.
Escargots	Snails cooked in broth.
Escoffier Dish	Serving containers for chafing dishes.
Escort	A person, usually employed or subcontracted (or independently contracted) by a DMC, who accompanies a tour from departure to return, as a guide. 2) A person who performs such functions only at the destination. See Also DMC
Escorted Tour	1) A prearranged travel program, usually for a group escorted. In a fully conducted tour, escort and/or guide service is provided throughout. 2) A sightseeing program conducted by a guide (e.g. a city tour). See TOUR. See Also ESCORT. See Also Tour , Escort
ESG	Event Specifications Guide is the industry's official term for the document used by an event organizer to convey information clearly and accurately to appropriate venue(s) and/or suppliers regarding all requirements for an event. See Also Event Specifications Guide
Espresso	A very thick, strong coffee, served in a demi tasse cup.
Est. Wt.	Estimated Weight.
Estimate	1) Critiquing and rating the overall success of an event. 2) Developing an event profile from accurate event statistics. 3) Approximate calculation of exhibit costs.
ETA	Estimated time of arrival.
Etching	Inscribing lines of textures on the surface of rigid materials using acids or tools.
ETD	Estimated time of departure.
Ethernet Internet Service	Local area network of computers and associated devices that share a global information system.
Étouffée	Succulent, tangy, tomato-based sauce, usually used with crawfish or shrimp.
Étouffée	A Cajun dish of crawfish or shrimp with vegetable, usually served over rice.
European Community	EC. The block of Western European countries formerly knows as the European Economic Community (EEC).
European Currency Unit	ECU. Currency unit of the European Community, called the “Euro.”
European Plan	EP. A room rate that does not include meals. See Also AMERICAN PLAN, BERMUDA PLAN, CONTINENTAL PLAN, DEMI-PENSION, MODIFIED AMERICAN PLAN. See Also American Plan , Bermuda Plan , Continental Plan , Demi-Pension , Modified American Plan
Evaluation	1) Critiquing and rating the overall success of an event. 2) Developing an event profile from accurate event statistics.
Evaluation Learning Method	Tests whether attendees learned what was expected, and if they can use the information effectively.
Event	An organized occasion such as a meeting, convention, exhibition, special event, gala dinner, etc. An event is often composed of several different yet related FUNCTIONS.
Event Organizer	Person whose job it is to oversee and arrange every aspect of an event. Person can be an employee or hired ad hoc to plan, organize, implement, and control meetings, conventions, and other events.
Event Site	Premises where an event will be held. See SITE. See Also Site
Event Specifications Guide	Event Specifications Guide is the industry's official term for the document used by an event organizer to convey information clearly and accurately to appropriate venue(s) and/or suppliers regarding all requirements for an event. See Also ESG
Event-Contracted Block	ECB. The rooms that are contracted for by an event organizer with a hotel(s) or housing facility(s) for a particular event.
Ex	From. When used in pricing terms such as "Ex Factory" or "Ex Dock," it signifies that the price quoted applies only at the point of origin (in the two examples, at the seller’s factory or a dock at the import point). In practice, this kind of price quote indicates that the seller agrees to place the goods at the disposal of the buyer at the specified place within a fixed period of time.
Excess Baggage	Baggage which exceeds the free allowance set by the airline.
Exchange Rate	The relative value of two different currencies at a specific time.
Exciter Lamp	Lamp which projects illumination through optical sound track on 16mm film. Light patterns are read by the projector sound head converted to electronic signals fed to an audio amplifier.
Exclusion	A contractual provision that denies coverage for certain perils, persons, property, or locations.
Exclusive	Any agreement which limits who may provide specific products or services under certain conditions to only one party. A general service contractor, for instance, may have an "exclusive" in a particular facility, meaning that no other contractor is allowed to provide the same services or products in that facility.
Exclusive Contract	Contract between a facility and a service provider designating that provider as the only provider of a specific service or products in that facility.
Exclusive Contractor	Contractor appointed by event or building management as the sole agent to provide specific services or products.
Exclusive Right to Sell	When a speakers bureau/agency has a contract with a speaker and is the sole and exclusive representative of the speaker.
Exclusive Use	Rental of entire truck or van by one shipper.
Excursion	A tour. A recreational trip or activity provided to event participants and/or accompanying persons as a scheduled portion of the event program. See TOUR. See Also Tour
Executive Coach	A luxury motorcoach with seating of 25 or less which can include such amenities as TV, galley, wet bar, card tables, etc.
Executive Committee	A committee of the Board of Directors that acts between meetings of the board to determine organizational policy.
Executive Conference Center	A first class conference facility that caters to executive level events.
Executive Director	Person appointed or hired to handle or direct day-to-day organizational functions.
Exhibit	Individual display area constructed to showcase products, services or convey a message.
Exhibit Booth/Stand	Individual display area constructed to showcase products or convey a message.
Exhibit Designer/Producer	Person or company responsible for designing and constructing an exhibit booth/stand.
Exhibit Directory	Program or catalog for attendees listing exhibitors and exhibit booth/stand location. See DIRECTORY. See Also Directory
Exhibit Hall	Area within facility where exhibition is located.
Exhibit House	Company that fabricates displays. See SHOP. See Also DISPLAY BUILDER. See Also Shop , Display Builder
Exhibit Manager	1) Person in charge of individual exhibit booth/stand.  2) Event management staff member in charge of entire exhibit area.
Exhibit Producer	An individual or company that designs and/or builds exhibits. May also provide other services. See DISPLAY BUILDER. See Also Display Builder
Exhibition	1) An event at which products and services are displayed. The primary activity of attendees is visiting exhibits on the show floor. These events focus primarily on business-to-business (B2B) relationships. 2) Display of products or promotional material for the purposes of public relations, sales and/or marketing. See TRADE SHOW. See Also CONSUMER SHOW, GATE SHOW, PUBLIC SHOW. See Also Trade Show , Consumer Show , Gate Show , Public Show
Exhibition Area	Amount of floor space occupied by exhibitor. Also Called BOOTH/STAND AREA. See Also Booth/Stand Area
Exhibition Center	Venue at which exhibitions are held.
Exhibition Contractor	The organizer or promoter of an exhibition; responsible for the letting of space, financial control and management of the exhibition; sometimes an agent acting in this capacity.
Exhibition Manager	Preferred term for the specific person responsible for all aspects of planning, promoting, and producing an exhibition. Also Called SHOW MANAGER, SHOW ORGANIZER. See SHOW MANAGEMENT. See Also Show Management
Exhibition Occupancy	Total square feet of space used for exhibits times the number of use days divided by the total exhibit space in the building multiplied by 365. Expressed as a percentage.
Exhibition Plan	Plan showing space to be occupied by the exhibition; the areas intended for booths/stands and those for passageways and services etc. See FLOOR PLAN. See Also Floor Plan
Exhibition Service Contractor	Supplier of booth/stand equipment, rental furnishings, floor coverings, labor, drayage and signs for exhibitions and trade shows. See GENERAL SERVICE CONTRACTOR. See Also General Service Contractor
Exhibitor	1) Person or firm that displays its products or services at an event. 2) Event attendee whose primary purpose for attending the event is to staff a booth/stand.
Exhibitor Advisory Committee	Representatives of an event's exhibiting companies who act as advisers to show management on rules and procedures, and also update show management on industry trends and issues.
Exhibitor Appointed Contractor	EAC. Any company other than the designated "official" contractor providing a service to an exhibitor. Can refer to an Install & Dismantle Company (I&D House), photographer, florist or any other type of contractor. See Also I&D
Exhibitor Kit	See EXHIBITOR MANUAL. See Also Exhibitor Manual
Exhibitor Lounge	An area either on or adjacent to the exhibit floor where exhibitors may relax or meet with customers.
Exhibitor Manual	Manual or kit, usually developed by the service contractor for an event, containing general event information, labor/service order forms, rules and regulations and other information pertinent to an exhibitor's participation in an exhibition.
Exhibitor Move-In	The time period allowed for exhibitors to prepare their exhibit space for show opening. It generally begins after the exposition contractor to receive/unload show-site deliveries.
Exhibitor Newsletter	A newsletter sent by event management to exhibitors prior to a event. It includes updates on deadlines, event rules and regulations, events, and marketing opportunities offered by event management, plus educational articles to improve exhibitors' effectiveness.
Exhibitor Prospectus	Direct mail promotional materials sent to current and prospective exhibitors to encourage participation and promote the benefits of exhibiting in a specific show. Contains information about technical points, cost of exhibition space, floor plan of the exhibition and application for participation.
Exhibitor Retention	Persuading current exhibitors to participate in subsequent events. Exhibitor retention rate is the percentage of exhibitors that renew.
Exhibitor-Appointed Carrier	EAC. For freight shipped to (inbound) or from (out-bound) a show, exhibitors are free to choose the carrier of their choice. This choice is predicated upon the exhibitor making necessary pick-up/delivery arrangements. When doing so, the exhibitor is said to have designated an EAC. Selecting a particular carrier is commonly associated with receiving preferred service and/or rates.
Exhibitorship	Skills to effectively present an exhibiting company's message. Includes body language, opening line and message presentation. Also Called BOOTHMANSHIP. See Also Boothmanship
Exhibits-Only	The right to attend the exhibit-based portion of an event, not the paid conference or other fee events.
Exit Visa	An endorsement made on a passport denoting that a person may leave the country.
Expanded Metal	Sheets of metal cut and expanded to form an open mesh, usually used as decorative grill.
Expected Attendance	Total number of people anticipated to attend an event prior to the event taking place.
Expedited Service	Service offered by a transportation company to assure prompt delivery.
Expenses	All contracted out-of-pocket business costs. These normally include airfare, taxi-fare, car rental costs, lodging, gratuities, special phone calls having to do with the event, meals, and last-minute presentational materials. Expenses charged to the client should not include anything of personal nature (i.e. movies, alcohol).
Explainer	Personnel hired at an exhibition who have technical knowledge of a product; they may or may not be bilingual.
Export	To send or transport goods out of one country for sale or display in another country. The exporter is usually the seller or the seller's agent. See IMPORT. See Also Import
Export Broker	An individual or firm that brings together buyers and sellers for a fee, but does not take part in actual sales transactions.
Export Declaration	Required for shipments valued at more than $2500; used by the U.S. government to monitor the dollar volume of export shipments.
Export License	A government document which permits the “licensee” to engage in the export of designated goods to certain destinations.
Export Management Company	A private firm that serves as the export department for several manufacturers, soliciting and transacting export business on behalf of its clients in return for compensation. i.e. a commission, salary, or retainer plus commission.
Exposition	See EXHIBITION. See Also Exhibition
Exposition Manager	See EXHIBITION MANAGER. See Also Exhibition Manager
Expository Learning	The instructor presents to the learners and the learners remain passive and watch or listen.
Extended Type	Type that is wider than standard, allowing fewer characters per line.
Extra Overnight Stays	All extra nights spent by the participant other than overnight event stays.
Extra Section	Added aircraft or bus to accommodate a group too large for one aircraft or bus.
Extraordinary Session	A special session for activities, needs, or situations that are different from those normally and originally scheduled.
Extruded	To form metal or plastic, push out.
Eye Bolts	Eye bolts or eye screws have a looped head or an opening in the head.
F&B	Food and Beverage.
F&B Guarantee	See GUARANTEE. See Also Guarantee
F&B Service Time	Specific time at which a food and beverage function, or segment of a function (e.g., appetizer, entrée, dessert), should be served.
FAA	Federal Aviation Administration.
Fabrication	Construction of an exhibit or display.
Facilitator	An individual who guides discussion and/or decision making.
Facility	A structure that is built, installed or established to serve a particular purpose. See CONVENTION CENTER, HALL. See Also Convention Center , Hall
Facility Manager	The manager of a convention center, exhibition hall or other venue.
Fade	Progressive lessening or dimming of an image from the screen. See DISSOLVE. See Also Dissolve
Fade-In	Gradual fade from a dark screen to a visual image. See CROSS FADE. See Also DISSOLVE. See Also Cross Fade , Dissolve
Fade-Out	Room lights are turned off or video screen becomes black. See GO TO BLACK. See Also Go to Black
Fader	Device used to control all dimming circuits.
Fahrenheit	A temperature scale in which 32° is freezing and 212° is the steam point. To convert Fahrenheit temperatures to Celsius, subtract 32 from the Fahrenheit reading, multiply by 5 and divide by 9.  (A simple way to calculate is to subtract 10% of Fahrenheit, then double the result, which may be off a degree, but is generally close enough.)
Fair	1) Enterprise principally devoted to the exhibition of products of agriculture or industry. Typically, fairs also provide entertainment activities such as rides, games and food concessions. 2) Exhibition of products or services in a specific area of activity held with the objective of promoting business.
Fair trade	Small farmers are paid a fair market price that enables them to improve their standard of living.
Fajitas	Marinated meat prepared Mexican-style.
False Bow	Staged bow and exit by the artist, with a planned return pending audience response.
Fam Trip	Familiarization Trip. Offered to potential buyers of a venue, a program designed to acquaint participants with specific destinations or services and to stimulate the booking of an event. Often offered in groups, but sometimes on an individual basis. See SITE INSPECTION. See Also Site Inspection
Familiarization Trip	Fam Trip. Offered to potential buyers of a venue, a program designed to acquaint participants with specific destinations or services and to stimulate the booking of an event. Often offered in groups, but sometimes on an individual basis. See SITE INSPECTION. See Also Site Inspection
Family Name	Preferred term for use on event housing and registration forms to indicate the name by which all immediate family members are known. Same as LAST NAME, SURNAME. Compare with GIVEN NAME. See Also Given Name
Family Plan	A discount price offered by companies to second and successive members of families.
Family-Style Service	Platters and bowls of foods are set on the dining tables, from which guests serve themselves.  Usually involves guests passing the containers to each other. See ENGLISH SERVICE. See Also English Service
FAP	Full American Plan. See AMERICAN PLAN (AP). See Also American Plan
Farci	Stuffed, e.g. stuffed meat.
Fascia	Placard or sign at top of exhibit usually with company name.
Fashion Goods	Goods where style is important and price is secondary. These products could include clothing, jewelry, furniture, draperies, and dishes, but can sometimes be stretched into other areas such as umbrellas, walking canes, cigarette holders, etc.
Fashion Show	Choreographed display of garments and/or accessories by models.
Fast Fold Screen	Brand name for a large screen with a frame which folds down into a small case for storage. The legs of this screen are attached at the sides of the screen, or the screen may be flown from above.
Featherbedding	1) Unfair labor practice of causing an employer to pay for services which are not performed, or requiring more people than necessary to do a job, or requiring the performance of superfluous work. 2) Making oneself comfortable through the receipt of excessive or unjustified compensation for little or no work. See MAKE WORK PRACTICES. See Also Make Work Practices
Featherrock	Material cut from volcanic lava in rough and varying sizes, or synthetic materials that looks exactly like heavy rock but is lightweight; useful for decorative stone, venues and dioramas.
Fee	1) A fixed amount or percentage charged. 2) The cost of participating in a meeting or event, paid to the organization conducting the meeting.
Fee for Service	The amount charged for providing a service.
Feedback	1) Regeneration of sound from audio speakers back through a microphone causing a squealing sound. 2) Response about an activity, policy, or idea.
Feeder Space	Reservations for passenger from home city to gateway city for international or Hawaii flights.
Fête	A party or celebration.
Fettuccine Alfredo	Fettuccine noodles in a white cheese sauce.
FHC	Notation on floor plans indicating the location of fire hose cabinets.
Fiber Optic Cable	A cable that is made up of tiny glass strands that are wrapped and bundled together to make up a cable. Fiber can transmit voice, data and video at gigabyte speed, or 1 billion bytes per second, with less signal loss than copper wire because the signal is carried by light rather than electricity. See BACKBONE. See Also Backbone
Fiber Optics	1) In displays, the use of cut glass fibers to display colored light. 2) In telephony, material used for carrying voice and data signals.
Fiberglass	A material fabricated from plastic resins and glass fiber. Available in rigid forms, translucent and opaque. Can also be custom fabricated in intricate shapes.
Field Services	Handling installation and dismantling, including freight, drayage, carpentry, electrical, plumbing, iron workers, riggers and maintenance.
File Server	A computer that shares its resources, such as printers and files, with other computers on a network.
Filet Mignon	Cut of the beef tenderloin.
Fill Light	Light used to fill in shadows created by key light.
Fillet	'Almost' boneless cut of fish.
Film	A flexible strip of chemically treated material used in taking still or moving pictures.
Film Chain	Projectors and video equipment transmitting projected materials through a television system.
Film Clip	Brief filmed piece.
Filmstrip	Series of slides reproduced on one continuous strip of film.
Filter	1) A transparent material that is over a light that can affect the intensity, color, and focus of the light. 2) Circuit that selectively attenuates portions of the audio frequency spectrum. A filter is the opposite of the traditional equalizer, which selectively boosts, but for the purpose of modern convenient control of sound on mixes and equalizer units, the circuits of tone-altering controls usually incorporate the dual abilities to equalize and filter by simply rotating a knob one way or another.
Final Program	Document containing the definitive conference and social program, circulated immediately prior to a conference or distributed at the commencement of the event.
Final Report	Conclusive summary of conference events.
Financial Procedures	An outline of accounting and banking techniques.
Financial Report	Document incorporating the statement of income and expenses and the budget at a given date.
Financial Responsibility Law	A law that requires a person or organization to furnish evidence of ability to respond to claims for harm from a specified type of activity. The most common financial responsibility requirement applies to motor vehicle operators, who must have evidence of ability to pay for automobile-related injuries or damage. An auto liability policy is the main form of financial responsibility.
Finger Bowl	Hot water, sometimes scented, and fresh linen served to a guest after the meal so that the hands and face can be cleansed.
Finger Food	Food at a reception that does not require a knife, fork or spoon.
Finger Pull	Hinged finger grip usually mounted in recess on hinged doors.
Finished	Wooden articles that have passed the state of manufacture "in the white" (refers to wood that has been primed).
Fire Aisle	Interior aisle in an exhibition floor plan used for emergency egress that must be kept clear of obstructions.
Fire Exit	Door or passageway, clear of obstructions, designed by local authorities for egress from a building or structure.
Fire Extinguisher	Any agent used to extinguish fires such as water, sand, CO2, Halon, etc.
Fire Insurance	This insurance usually covers loss or damage attributable to fire, smoke, explosion, or forces of nature. It can also cover water damage.
Fire Lane	An external vehicle lane that must be kept clear of obstruction to allow emergency egress.
Fire Marshal	In the United States, Fire Marshals' responsibilities vary from state to state, but they tend to be responsible for fire safety code adoption and enforcement, fire and arson investigation, fire incident data reporting and analysis, public education and advising Governors and State Legislatures on fire protection.
Fire Retardant	Term used to describe a finish (usually liquid) which coats materials with a fire resistant cover. This does not render the material fire-proof.
Firm Offer	A speaking engagement that is definitely confirmed as in, "I've got a firm offer for Baltimore on that date." A firm offer is one that becomes contractually binding upon acceptance of the offer by the third party.
First Aid	Emergency care or treatment given to an ill or injured person before regular medical care is available. Also the place where such emergency care is provided.
First Announcement	Initial notification of an event, generally outlining the basic framework of a meeting; a widely circulated document. Also Called PRELIMINARY ANNOUNCEMENT.
First Name	Name given to identify individual family members. See GIVEN NAME (preferred). See Also Given Name
First Option	See OPTION. See Also Option
Fishpole	Holder with microphone often used in Q. & A. sessions. See GOOSENECK LIGHT. See Also Gooseneck Light
FIT	Foreign Independent Travel. A custom-designed, prepaid travel package with many individualized arrangements. FIT are unescorted and usually have no formal itinerary.
Fixed Assets	Usually non-liquid assets that are integral to the enterprise's day-to-day business operations (e.g. plants, equipment, furniture and real estate).
Fixed Costs	The day-to-day cost of doing business that is pre-committed, such as salaries, insurance, lease expenses, utilities, etc.
Fixed Expense	Expense incurred regardless of the number of event attendees.
Fixed Jig	Permanent felt support mounted within a shipping container.
Fixed Seating Assignments	Chairs of event rooms permanently affixed to the floor.
Fixed Theater	Permanent, non-movable seats in an event room or amphitheater.
Flag Carrier	Carrier designated by a country to serve international routes.
Flambé	(flom bay) Meat dish or dessert item flamed with spirits.
Flame Resistant/ Retardant	Material that is fire resistant.
Flange	That part of an extruded, formed or fabricated component that protrudes from the basic shape. Often used as mounting plate.
Flare	Dark flashes caused by light reflections from polished objects.
Flash	Technique of blinking on and off to add emphasis.
Flash Box	Smoke-producing device for special effects.
Flasher	Device to activate one or more lamps by intermittently interrupting current.
Flat Cable	Cable and extension cords that are used to lie on the floor under the carpet. It is flat to help reduce tripping hazards and provide a safer walk area within a booth/stand space.
Flat Framed	1' x 2', 1' x 3' or 1' x 4' mounted on flat surface, usually associated with banners or signs.
Flat Rate	Flat rate for which a hotel or motel agrees to offer any of its available sleeping rooms (with the exception of suites) to a group. Final assignment of rooms is at the discretion of the hotel. See RUN-OF-THE-HOUSE RATE.
Flatware	Utensils used in a place setting (e.g. knife, fork, spoon).
Flipchart	Large pad of paper placed on, or attached to, an easel. Flipcharts are often used by speakers and facilitators for illustrative purposes. They are commonly used with permanent or non-permanent dry ink markers.
Float	A large 4-wheel dolly with upright handle, can be manual or motorized.
Floater	Worker(s) with no fixed assignment who are used to help out where needed.
Flocking	An electrostatic spraying process producing a velvety finish on any surface.
Flood Light	A light designed to provide general illumination.
Floor Load	Maximum amount of weight per square foot/meter a floor can support. (May also refer to the maximum amount of power available from floor outlets and ports.)
Floor Manager	Person retained by event management to supervise the installation, dismantling and operation of the exhibit area.
Floor Marking	Method of marking booth/stand spaces in an empty exhibit hall to indicate where booth/stands will be set.
Floor Order	Order for exhibitor services placed on-site after exhibit set up begins. Usually more expensive than an ADVANCE ORDER.
Floor Plan	1) Schematic drawing of an exhibit hall including dimensions, design, shape, entrances, aisles, numbered exhibit booth/stands, lounges, concession areas, restrooms, electrical/plumbing accessibility, etc. 2) Scale plan of the floor area of a hotel’s event space. 3) Schematic drawing of a function room with specific requirements (dais, tables, chairs, etc.) drawn to scale.
Floor Port	Utility box, recessed in the floor, containing electrical, telephone, and/or plumbing connections.
Floor Speaker	Member of a meeting audience who participates in discussion during a meeting session.
Floor-Length Linen	Covers table across top and down to floor. Used for more formal events.
Flop	To reverse a photo or illustration so that it conforms to the basic design.
Florentine	Served with spinach.
Flush	Type is set so that it is even with right margin, left margin and/or both margins.
Flush Mounted	Mounting of one material to another with no space between them.
Fly	Objects and scenery hanging from above.
Flyer	One-piece printed announcement or advertisement.
Fly-In Instructions	Directions informing a venue or facility of the number of event participants expected to travel by plane to an event, in order to ensure adequate parking and bell staffing. This information should be included in the specifications guide for an event.
Flying	Raising and supporting sound, lighting or other equipment or décor from the ceiling.
Foam Core	Corrugated lightweight material with a Styrofoam® center sandwiched in the center; used for signs, decorating, and exhibit construction.
FOB	Freight On Board. When something is purchased and paid for with terms 'FOB origin' it means the responsibility of the seller stops when the 'goods' are delivered to the transporting company at the point of origin. It is the responsibility of the buyer to pay for transportation.
Focal Length	1) Distance from the center of the lens to the film plane. 2) Size of lens required to obtain a specific size picture.
Focus	Proper sharpness of the outline of an image.
Focus Group	Method of doing research using a small group led by a facilitator.
Foie	(foy) Liver.
Foie Gras	Seasoned goose liver pâté.
Foldback	See CUE CHANNEL. See Also Cue Channel
Folio	Form on which all charge transactions incurred by a registered guest are recorded.
Follow Spotlight	Manually movable spotlight (a brilliant light projected onto a particular area).
Font	Alphabet of type in a specific style. See TYPEFACE. See Also Typeface
Food & Beverage	Any catered or concession service provided by a facility.
Force Majeure	An event (e.g. war, labor strike, extreme weather, or other disruptive circumstances) or effect that cannot be reasonably anticipated or controlled: a "fortuitous event." See ACT OF GOD. See Also Act of God
Force Majeure Clause	A clause in an agreement that excuses performance in the event that a FORCE MAJEURE makes the performance impracticable or impossible.
Forced Freight/Forcing the Floor	Removal of freight from the event floor after the event close that was not picked up by an exhibitor's carrier, or shipments left behind at the booth/stand at the close of the event without a bill of lading.  Forced freight is generally removed from the hall at a specified time and held by the general contractor or official common carrier or until payment is made for forwarding.
Forecast	1) To estimate a hotel’s revenues and occupancy situation on any given date or dates. Used for planning of staffing, purchasing and budgeting. Does not reflect contract commitments. 2) To estimate revenues and expenses for a future event.
Foreign Exchange Currency Risk	Risk that an organization takes when dealing with foreign currency due to exchange rates fluctuating over time.
Foreign Independent Tour	FIT. Custom-designed prepaid tour for an individual traveler. See Also Tour
Foreign Sales Agent	An individual or firm that serves as the foreign representative of a domestic supplier and seeks sales abroad for the supplier.
Foreign Trade Zone	An area within a country where imported goods can be stored or processed without being subject to import duty. See FREE PORT. See Also BONDED WAREHOUSE. See Also Free Port , Bonded Warehouse
Foreign/National	Membership or meeting participation available to organizations or individuals from one nation, but able to meet in another nation.
Foreman	Supervisor of a group of workers whose duties will vary based upon the region of the country and the union affiliation. See JOB FOREMAN. See Also WORKING FORMAN. See Also Job Foreman , Working Foreman
Fork Food	Food at a reception that requires only a fork and not a knife.
Forklift/Forktruck	Vehicle with a power-operated pronged platform for lifting and carrying loads, used to transport heavy exhibit materials short distances, and for loading and unloading materials.
Formal Dress	See BLACK TIE. See Also WHITE TIE. See Also Black Tie , White Tie
Formica	A brand name for a plastic laminate.
For-Profit	An organization that organizes events with the intention of making a profit.
For-Profit Event Management Company	A management company whose owners or stockholders share in its net proceeds.
Forum	1) Open discussion with audience, panel, and moderator. 2) A meeting or part of a meeting set aside for an open discussion by recognized participants on subjects of public interest. Also for legal purposes, as part of the proceedings of a tribunal, court or similar body.
Forward Contract	An agreement guaranteeing a specific price for a product or service at a given future date. May also guarantee a specific rate of exchange when foreign currency is used.
Foul Bill of Lading	A receipt for goods issued by a carrier with an indication that the goods were damaged when received. See CLEAN BILL OF LADING. See Also Clean Bill of Lading
Four Hour Call	Minimum work period for which union labor must be paid in special circumstances (generally, a minimum call is one hour.). Not to be confused with minimum charges to exhibitors applied by contractors that service events.
Four-Color Separation	Process of printing a full color image utilizing four colored screened patterns from which printing plates can be engraved.
Foyer	Pre-function space; public area in a venue for assembly or registration.
FP	See FRONT PROJECTION. See Also Front Projection
Fraises	(frays) Strawberries.
Framboises	(fram bwah) Raspberries.
Frame	Individual picture in a filmstrip or motion picture.
Framed Hardboard	Masonite or similar material on a 1 x 2 or 1 x 3 frame.
Fraternal	Groups where membership is based on common personal interests rather than common job or career responsibilities.
Free Form	Self-supporting and independent exhibit material. See ISLAND EXHIBIT. See Also Island Exhibit
Free Paper	Written transcript given as a result of acceptance of the submitted abstract on a subject chosen by the author.
Free Papers Session	Reports on particular topics which, while closely related to the subject of an event, do not strictly refer to the matters under discussion.
Free Port	See FOREIGN TRADE ZONE. See Also Foreign Trade Zone
Free Pour	Alcoholic beverages poured by hand without the use of shot glasses or other measuring devices.
Free Rider	Union term for a non-union worker who received the benefits of the union's collective bargaining activity without sharing in the costs.
Free Standing	Self-supporting and independent display material.
Free Trade Zone	An area designated by the government of a country for duty-free entry of any non-prohibited goods. Merchandise may be stored, displayed, used for manufacturing, etc., within the zone and re-exported without duties being paid. Duties are imposed on the merchandise (or items manufactured from the merchandise) only when the goods pass from the zone into an area of the country subject to the customs authority.
Freeze Frame	Motion picture or video frame that is stopped so a single frame is displayed. See STOP MOTION. See Also Stop Motion
Freight	Properties, products, and other materials that are shipped.
Freight Contractor	The event-designated company responsible for handling exhibit properties from the dock to the exhibit space.
Freight Desk	A shipping company that typically handles international freight shipments.  At an event, handles inbound and outbound exhibit materials.
Freight Elevator Usage	Instructions on the allotment of a facility’s freight elevator’s space and time required for an event. This information should be included in the specifications guide for an event.
Freight Forwarder	An independent business which handles export shipments for compensation. At the request of the shipper, the forwarder makes the actual arrangements and provides the necessary services for expediting the shipment to its overseas destination. The forwarder takes care of all documentation needed to move the shipment from origin to destination, making up and assembling the necessary documentation for submission to the bank in the exporter's name. The forwarder arranges for cargo insurance, makes the necessary overseas communications, and advises the shipper on overseas requirements of marking and labeling. The forwarder operates on a fee basis paid by the exporter and often receives an additional percentage of the freight charge from the common carrier. In the United States, an export freight forwarder must be licensed by the Federal Maritime Commission to handle ocean freight and by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) to handle air freight. An ocean freight forwarder dispatches shipments from the United States via common carriers, books or arranges space for the shipments, and handles the shipping documentation. See INTERNATIONAL FREIGHT FORWARDER. See Also International Freight Forwarder
Freight Handling Form	Form for exhibitor requesting handling of materials. Not to be confused with long haul shipping forms or bills of lading.
French Hours	Not taking meal breaks. Taking breaks and eating as you work, as conditions permit.
French Service - Banquet Style	Platters of food are composed in the kitchen. Each food item is then served from the guest's left by the server from platters to individual plates. Any course can be 'Frenched' by having the dressing put on the salad or having sauce added to a entrée or dessert after it has been placed in front of the guest. See FRENCH SERVICE - CART STYLE. See Also French Service - Cart Style
French Service - Cart Style	This pattern of service involves the use of serving pieces (usually silver); heating and garnishing of food table-side by a captain; and the serving of food on a heated plate, which is then served to the guest by a server. Plated entrees are usually served from the right, bread and butter and salad from the left and beverages from the right. All are removed from the right. See FRENCH SERVICE - BANQUET STYLE. See Also French Service - Banquet Style
Frequency	Spacing in time of events. In audio signals, frequency refers to the cyclic repeat of vibrations. In wire, the vibrations are electrical variations. In air, the vibrations are changes in air pressure. The ear hears air pressure variations with frequencies between about 12 times per second and 20,000 times per second of 12 Hz (hertz) and 20 kHz (kilohertz).
Frequency Rates	The amount of time between motorcoaches on a given route or at a specific location.
Frequency Response	Measurement of how a device being measured responds to test signals of constant amplitude without regard to frequency, over a particular measurement range of frequencies. An electrical device whose specifications say it is “flat from 20Hz to 20kHz,” will not cause any amplitude deviation in signals fed through it over that frequency range, as a result of changing the frequency of the test signal.
Fresnel Lens	Lens which produces a soft edged beam of light. Theatrical fixture with adjustable lens 150 W through 1500 W.
Friday Casual	See DRESS CASUAL. See Also Dress Casual
Frisket	Technique of applying lettering or art to surface of rigid material by tracing outline on translucent paper; affixing the paper to surface or materials, cutting away paper within lettering spaces and then spraying color over surface. When balance of paper is removed, the lettering remains.
Frites	(freets) French slang for French fried potatoes.
Froid	Cold, chilled.
Fromage	Cheese.
Front Desk	1) Hotel registration area.  2) The center of event facility activities, including registration and cashier services.
Front Office	The office situated in the hotel lobby, the main functions of which are: 1) control and sale of sleeping rooms; 2) providing key, mail and information service for guests; 3) keeping guest accounts, rendering bills and receiving payments; and 4) providing information to other departments.
Front Projection	FP. Projection of an image onto the front surface of a light reflecting screen from a projector placed within or behind the audience.
Frontages/Front Space	Refers to dimension across the front of an exhibit (for example, a 30' x 10' exhibit has 30' of front space and 10' depth).
FSA	Fire Safety Act. In the United States, the aim of the Hotel and Motel Fire Safety Act of 1990 is to save lives and protect property by promoting fire and life safety in hotels, motels and other places of public accommodation. The law mandates that federal employees on travel must stay in public accommodations that adhere to the life safety requirements in the legislation guidelines. It also states that federally funded meetings and conferences cannot be held in properties that do not comply with the law. This is applicable to all places of public accommodation, and requires that such properties are equipped with: hard-wired, single-station smoke detectors in each guestroom in accordance with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standard 72; and, an automatic sprinkler system, with a sprinkler head in each guest room in compliance with NFPA standards 13 or 13R. Properties three stories or lower in height are exempt from the sprinkler requirement.
FTP	File Transfer Protocol.  The process of uploading websites or other data.
Full American Plan	FAP. See AMERICAN PLAN (AP). See Also American Plan
Full Disclosure	Informing the party purchasing a product or service of any rebates, surcharges or commissions included in the price of the product or service before they are purchased.
Full House	Closed; filled to capacity.
Full-Booth Coverage	Carpet covering entire area of booth/stand.
Full-Service Restaurant	A food service establishment that includes coffee shops, dinner houses, fine dining establishments, and theme restaurants with several menu selections and table service.
Fume	(foo may) Smoked.
Fumigation	To apply smoke, vapor, or gas to something for the purpose of disinfecting or of destroying pests. Fumigation is required in some countries for live plants and wooden packing.
Function	1) Any of a group of related organized occasions that contribute to a larger event. 2) An activity or role assigned to an event planner (or other industry professional).
Function Board	Announcements on facility board or video screen listing the day’s events, times and locations. See DIRECTORY. See Also READER BOARD. See Also Directory , Reader Board
Function Book	Diary or log used to control and document the assignment of function space within a facility. May be computerized.
Function Sheet	See BANQUET EVENT ORDER (BEO). See Also Banquet Event Order
Function Space	Area in a facility which can be reserved by a individual or entity to hold events.
Fundamental	Any pure tone. The pitch remaining when all harmonics (overtones) are removed from a basic frequency or musical tone, producing a pure tone. An amplifier or audio circuit that can pass a pure tone without adding any harmonics of its own is said to have low harmonic distortion. Musical instruments usually produce tones rich in harmonics, giving each its particular sound or ”timbre.” Small loudspeakers will be heard to reproduce bass instruments even while producing little or no fundamental pitch because the ear and brain reconstruct the sound of the instrument based on prior knowledge of its timbre.
Funnel Flight	Flight, with one flight number, requiring a change of planes at an intermediate stop.
Furniture Dolly	See FLOAT. See Also Float
Fuse Head	An electrical igniter used to initiate a pyrotechnic effect. Sometimes called a Squib Head.
Future Bookings	Events or meetings which are contractually committed to occur at a future date in a specific venue.
G&A	General & Administrative. Expenses incurred by an organization that cannot be charged directly to a specific project account, i.e., overhead costs such as rent, etc.
Gaffer	Electrician on a film or video shoot.
Gaffer’s Tape	Fabric tape used in anchoring cables to the floor. See DUCT TAPE. See Also CARPET TAPE. See Also Duct Tape , Carpet Tape
Gain	Level of audio volume. See LEVEL. See Also Level
Gala Dinner	Primary social function of an event, usually in the evening, including entertainment or speeches after a formal meal.
Galantine	Boned meat, pressed into symmetrical shape, that usually includes truffles.  When the loaf is sliced, a decorative pattern is revealed.  Served cold, generally as an appetizer.
Galley Proof	Sheet of copy that has been typeset for the author to correct before printing.
Gang Box	See TROUBLE BOX. See Also Trouble Box
Ganging Menus	When two or more groups in facility have the same menu.
Gangway	Space between sets of tables, chairs or booths/stands to allow passage of attendees. See AISLE. See Also Aisle
Garcy Strip	Trade name of manufacturer that produces brackets and standards for the mounting or materials, usually shelves.
Garlic	Pungent bulbs made of sections called cloves encased in a parchment like membrane. Garlic is a cousin to leeks, chives, onions and shallots.
Garment Rack	Frame which holds apparel. See COSTUMER. See Also Costumer
Garni	See GARNISH. See Also Garnish
Garni Hotel	Hotel without dining facilities.
Garnish	Food decoration, usually edible, which adds color and form to food presentation. Also Called GARNI.
Gate Show	Exhibition open to the public usually requiring an entrance fee. See CONSUMER SHOW. See Also PUBLIC SHOW. Compare With TRADE SHOW. See Also Exhibition , Consumer Show , Public Show , Trade Show
Gateau	(gah toe) Cake.
Gateway	A dedicated computer that attaches to two or more disparate networks and converts data packets from one form to another.
Gateway City	City with an international airport.
Gator Foam	Laminated foam board used for signage, available in a variety of thicknesses. More rigid and durable than FOAM CORE.
GATT	General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade. A multilateral treaty whose purpose is to help reduce trade barriers between the signatory countries and to promote trade through tariff concessions.
Gel	1) Theatrical color filter used in conjunction with theatrical projection fixtures and spotlights. 2) Gelatin.
General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade	GATT. A multilateral treaty whose purpose is to help reduce trade barriers between the signatory countries and to promote trade through tariff concessions.
General Assembly	General and formal meeting of an association, club, organization or company attended by a specified proportion at least of its members for the purpose of deciding legislative direction, policy matters, the election of internal committees and approval of balance sheets, budgets and the like. An assembly generally observes certain fixed rules of procedure.
General Export License	Any of various licenses covering export commodities for which validated export licenses are not required. No formal application or written authorization is needed to ship exports under a general export license.
General Liability Insurance	An insurance policy that provides protection against claims involving bodily injury and property damage to third parties.
General Service Contractor	GSC. An organization that provides event management and exhibitors with a wide range of services, sometimes including, but not limited to, Installation & Dismantle, creating and hanging signage and banners, laying carpet, drayage, and providing booth/stand furniture. See DECORATOR. See Also Decorator
General Session	A meeting open to all those in attendance at a event.  See PLENARY SESSION. See Also Plenary Session
General Strike	A simultaneous strike by the unionized workers in all trades and industries in a geographic area. Also, a strike by all the unionized workers in one industry.
Genie Lift	The manufacturer of a variety of lifts used in the erection of event displays. The first model manufactured was a hand-cranked material handling lift. Also Called HURTY GURTY. Genie now also manufactures motorized lifts that can be used as material lifts or man lifts.
Geographic Segmentation	The arbitrary division of a market by country, region, state, zone, district, standard metropolitan statistical area (SMSA), city, etc.
Gerber	Machine for cutting vinyl lettering used in making signs.
Get-Together	A planned informal gathering that occurs during an event which offers an opportunity for social interchange.
Ghee	Clarified butter.
GIF	A common format for bitmapped image files, suitable for images containing large areas of the same color.
Gig	A slang term meaning an engagement or booking.
GIT	See GROUP INCLUSIVE TOUR. See Also Group Inclusive Tour
Given Name	Preferred form for international registration documents in place of first name. Same as FIRST NAME. Compare to FAMILY NAME. See Also Family Name
Glaçe	1) Ice. 2) Ice cream. 3) Iced.
Glass Beaded Screen	Screen whose surface is covered with tiny glass beads which reflect a bright image back toward the audience, but have a narrow viewing angle.
Global Partner	A worldwide associate who joins in an activity or business with another or others.
Glossy	1) A black-and-white or color photograph printed on glossy paper, used to promote a speaker or celebrity. 2) Common term for photographs reproduced on high gloss paper.
GMT	Greenwich Mean Time. Time on the line of longitude that passes through Greenwich, England, used as a basis for calculating time throughout the world. See ZULU TIME. See Also Zulu Time
Gnocchi	Pasta made from potatoes; potato dumplings served in a red tomato based sauce.
Go to Black	Room lights are turned off or video screen becomes black. See FADE-OUT. See Also Fade-Out
Goblet	Glass with stem and foot.
Gobo	A pre-cut, etched pattern fabricated from metal or glass that fits in the focal plane of a lighting instrument to form projected light into a shape (logo, graphic or even scenery). Templates can form light images on ceilings and walls. The pattern or template can be used in a projection type spotlight, to project decorative patterns on the walls. The "Bat" image from "Batman" is an example.
Good Faith Effort	A true and honest effort to uphold the law.
Good One Side	Plywood whose face side is free of blemishes.
Goods and Services Tax	Fee imposed on the sale of goods and services.
Gooseneck Light	Small (75 to 150 watt) spot light with flexible stem.
Goulash	Hungarian meat dish seasoned with paprika
Government Meeting	An event at which attendees are civil servants, elected officials or service providers to governmental entities.
Governmental Conference	Technical or political events between governments with the aim of discussing national or international topics.
Grandstands	Tiered or stepped seating facilities wherein an area of more than 3 square feet is provided per person.
Granitee	A coarse-textured sorbet.
Grant	Money obtained from organizations or authorities to underwrite or support a specific program or project.
Graphics	Communicative elements such as color, copy, art, photographs, translites, etc. used to illustrate a booth/stand theme or enhance decor.
Gras	(grah) Fat.
Gratuity	A voluntary payment added to a bill (e.g. a restaurant check), to signify good service. See SERVICE CHARGE. See Also Service Charge
Gray Water	Non-drinkable water, not potable.
Grazing	Nibbling on food.
Green Room	Room, stocked with refreshments, for artists, featured speakers and entourage to meet guests and media representatives. See HOLDING ROOM. See Also READY ROOM. See Also Holding Room , Ready Room
Greenwich Mean Time	GMT. Time on the line of longitude that passes through Greenwich, England used as a basis for calculating time throughout the world. See ZULU TIME. See Also Zulu Time
Greeter	A person who meets or receives another person/persons in a specified way.
Grid System	Technique of providing system of structural supports, electrical conduit, etc., on a pattern of centers. Also used for ceilings.
Grievance	1) An employee's or employer's dissatisfaction or cause of distress (as an unsatisfactory working condition or unfair labor practice) felt to afford a reason for complaint or dispute. 2) A violation of a collective bargaining agreement usually by the employer.
Grille	Grilled or broiled.
Grip	Stagehand who assists master carpenter.
Grits	Ground hominy (corn) .
Grommet	Rubber, metal or plastic element for reinforcing holes in weaker materials.
Gross	For speakers, the total fee a buyer is charged for a booking, including agents’ fees, but excluding speaker expenses (air and ground transportation, tips, hotels, and meals). Bureau commissions are not paid on expenses.
Gross Square Feet/Meters	gsf or gsm. 1) Total amount of available function space in exhibit hall or other facility. 2) Total amount of space used for a specific show or event. See NET SQUARE FEET/METERS. See Also Net Square Feet/Meters
Gross Weight	The full weight of a shipment, including goods and packaging. See TARE WEIGHT, ACTUAL WEIGHT See Also Tare Weight , Actual Weight
Ground Loop	Electrical circuit where two or more paths to ground (true 0 volts) have different voltages as a result of current flow through wiring or chassis elements. The minute voltages on some ground legs may find their way into equipment input circuits and be amplified, causing hum, buzzing or in the worst case, inaudible high frequency oscillations, sometime at high power levels, that can ultimately cause destruction of tweeter voice coils or even burn out amplifiers.
Ground Operator	Company or person in a city handling local transportation and other local travel needs. See DESTINATION MANAGEMENT COMPANY (DMC). See Also Destination Management  Company
Ground Support	Lifts, trusses, pipe or other freestanding devices used to raise sound, lighting or other equipment above the heads of attendees and to support it from the floor.
Ground Transfer	The movement of passengers, in a vehicle, on a tract of land, from one point to another.
Groundrow	Freestanding low scenery or painted cutout giving illusion of depth used to mask mechanical or electrical devices.
Group Arrivals/Departures	Information included in the specifications guide for an event that outlines approximate dates and times at which groups of event attendees can be expected to arrive at a facility (hotel) for check-in or check-out. This is intended to give the facility notice in order to prepare for front desk staffing.
Group Booking	Reservation for a block of sleeping rooms specifically for a group.
Group Inclusive Tour	GIT. Travel program with a special fare and specific requirements (e.g. a minimum number of persons traveling as a group throughout the TOUR). See Also Tour
Group Rate	Confirmed rate extended to attendees booking their sleeping room accommodations as part of a group room block.
Group Tour	A prearranged, prepaid travel program for a group usually including transportation and attraction admissions. May or may not include meals. See Tour. See Also Tour
Group Travel	Participants depart on the same conveyance and follow the same schedule of activities.
Group Travel Agency	Company specializing in planning and handling group travel.
Gruyère Cheese	(grew yayre) A Swiss cheese used to make fondue.
GSF	See GROSS SQUARE FEET. See Also Gross Square Feet/Meters
GST	Goods and services taxes.
Guarantee	A promise of commitment to provide a minimum amount of sleeping rooms, F&B, or other revenues. Usually there is financial liability if the commitment is not met. The final number of persons to be served is usually required at least 48 hours in advance of a food & beverage event.
Guaranteed Late Arrival	Sleeping room that is guaranteed by credit card or advance payment in the event a guest's arrival is later than a hotel's pre-determined arrival time
Guaranteed Payment	A hotel reservation secured by the guests' agreement to pay for his room whether he uses it or not.
Guaranteed Reservation	Pre-paid reservation held until agreed arrival time, or check-out time the next day, whichever occurs first. Guest is responsible for payment if reservation is not cancelled.
Guaranteed Tour	A TOUR guaranteed to operate unless cancelled before an established cut-off date. See Also Tour
Guest	1) A person who pays for the services of an establishment such as a hotel. 2) A person who accompanies an attendee to an event. This person can be a spouse, significant other, child, etc.
Guest Program	Educational and/or social events planned for spouses and guests of event participants.
Guest Speech	Paper or speech on a specific subject submitted at the request of an event’s organizers. See INVITED PAPER. See Also Invited Paper
Guide	Person accompanying a tour and giving detailed knowledge of places of interest.
Guided Tour	A sightseeing trip conducted by a guide.
Gumbo	A Creole specialty, it's a thick, stewlike dish that can have any of many ingredients, including vegetables such as okra, tomatoes and onions,  and one or several meats or shellfish such as chicken, sausage, ham, shrimp, crab or oysters.
Gusset	In construction, a triangular reinforcement or brace in corners of panels or framing.
Halal	Food prepared according to Islamic Law. Halal food is defined as food that: does not consist of or contain anything which is considered to be unlawful; has not been prepared, processed, transported or stored using any appliance or facility that was not free from anything unlawful; and, has not in the course of preparation, processing, transportation or storage been in direct contact with any food that fails to satisfy the first two conditions. In addition, Halal food can be prepared, processed or stored in different sections or lines within the same premises where non-Halal foods are produced, provided that necessary measures are taken to prevent any contact between Halal and non Halal foods. Halal foods can also be prepared, processed, transported or stored using facilities that have been previously used for non Halal foods provided that proper cleaning procedures have been observed.
Half Moon Set-Up	A seating arrangement in which 60-, 66- or 72-inch (152-, 168- and 183-centimeter) diameter rounds have seats on two-thirds to three-quarters of the table and no seats with their backs to the speaker. Used for banquet-to-meeting or meeting-to-banquet quick set. See CRESCENT-ROUND SET-UP. See Also Crescent-Round Set-Up
Half Moon Table	Half of a round table, or two quarter-round tables attached to make a half circle.  See HALF-ROUND. See Also Half-Round
Half-Round	A semi-circular table.
Halftone	Photograph that has been prepared for single color reproduction.
Hall	A place of public assembly or used for exhibits; usually refers to a large function space.
Halon Fire Extinguisher	A fire extinguisher generally used on computers and electronic fires. It should not hurt the computer or destroy silicon chips. It is classed as a hypo-thermal chemical fire extinguisher.
Hand Carry	Items that an exhibitor is allowed to carry unaided into a event facility without being charged.
Hand Service	One server is assigned for each two guests.  Servers wear white gloves.  When serving, they stand behind their guests holding two composed plates.  When the signal is given, all guests are served at the same time.
Hand Truck	Small hand-propelled implement with two wheels and two handles used for transporting small loads.  See WHEELER/WHEELIE. See Also Wheeler/Wheelie
Handling	Moving of materials, usually to and from a loading dock.
Handout	Informative or educational material given to the audience at the speaker’s presentation. Handouts often are in flyer form. The term, however, refers to any material that is handed out to the audience.
Hands-On Participation	Demonstration of a product of service in which people actively participate with the product or service.
Hard Card	1) Work order for labor or services. 2) Material handling contractor’s record of materials received or shipped.
Hard Data	See QUANTITATIVE DATA. See Also Quantitative Data
Hard Wire	Electrical connections that are other than receptacle to receptacle. These are charged on a time plus materials basis.
Hardwall	A type of exhibit construction in which the walls are of solid material, rather than fabric.
Hardwall Booth/Stand	Booth/stand constructed with plastic, plywood or similar material as opposed to booth/stand formed by drapery only.
Haricots Verts	(harry co vare) Very small green (string) beans.
Harmonic Distortion	Distortion which is harmonically related to the fundamental signal fed through an audio circuit or system. Harmonic distortion is characterized by a harsh sound that ranges from a slight edge on some of the high-frequency components of a musical program, to the fuzz associated with electric guitar effects pedals.
Harmonized Code	Commodity number assigned to goods shipped internationally. Also referred to as a Schedule B number.
Harmonized System of Tariff Nomenclature	An international system for classifying goods in international trade and for specifying the tariffs on those goods. It was adopted at the beginning of 1989, replacing the previously used schedules in over 50 countries, including the Brussels Tariff Nomenclature. See Also Brussels Tariff Nomenclature
Haute Cuisine	Food that is prepared in an elegant or elaborate manner; the very finest food, prepared perfectly. The French word haute translates as "high" or "superior."
Hazard	A condition that increases the likelihood that a loss will be more severe.
HCEA	Healthcare Convention and Exhibitors Association. A member of the Convention Industry Council.
Head	1) Front or first, e.g. HEAD TABLE. 2) Pan-tilt device on which a camera is mounted.
Head Count	Actual number of people attending a catered function. See AUDIENCE COUNT. See Also COVERS. See Also Audience Count , Cover
Head Table	Table used to seat VIPs, speakers, and other dignitaries, often elevated on a dais or stage. See DAIS. See Also VIP. See Also Dais , VIP
Head Tax	Fee charged arriving and departing passengers in some foreign countries.
Header	1) FASCIA. 2) Overhead illuminated display sign. 3) A sign or other structure across top of exhibit. Usually displays company name.
Headquarters	Facility, as the center of operations, where registration, general sessions, and conference staff office are located.
Headroom	Reserve voltage or power level in an audio deice or system. The difference in levels between the normal or “nominal” operating levels and the peak clean (undistorted) available levels. See NOMINAL OPERATING LEVEL. See Also Nominal Operating Level
Heads in Beds	Term that refers to sleeping rooms in a hotel actually occupied by guests.
Headset	Headphone with a built-in microphone.
Health Warning	Decree issued by the World Health Organization warning travelers of the outbreak of a communicable disease in a given area.
Heel and Toe	To staple forming folds with sateen or other decorative material. A method of pleating.
Herringbone Set-Up	Seating arrangement in which chairs are arranged in rows slanted in a V shape and separated by a center aisle. They face the head table or speaker. See CHEVRON SET-UP. See Also V-SHAPE SET-UP. See Also Chevron Set-Up , V-Shape Set-Up
Hertz	(Hz) Unit of frequency equal to one cycle per second.
HI LOW	See FORKLIFT/FORKTRUCK. See Also Forklift/Forktruck
Hidden Charge	Unbudgeted or undisclosed expense or charge.
Hide-A-Bed	A sofa that opens to make a bed. Also Called SOFA BED.
High Drape	High drape is any drape over 8’ high which requires special equipment. High drape is used to create dramatic areas such as stages or special focal points. Typically, high drape is dark blue velour and is 16’ to 19’ high, although vinyl or 11’ banjo drape in blue and other colors is often used. All high drape needs to be anchored securely on its framework to ensure it cannot fall.
High Jacker	Equipment capable of lifting a person or persons to a given height.  See CHERRY PICKER. See Also MAN LIFT, JLG, SCISSORS LIFT, GENIE LIFT, HI LOW, FORKLIFT/FORTRUCK. See Also Cherry Picker , Man Lift , JLG , Scissor Lift , Genie Lift , HI LOW , Forklift/Forktruck
High Season	Period when the demand for a supplier’s product or service is highest. Prices general increase in high season. Also Called PEAK SEASON. Compare With LOW SEASON. See Also Low Season
Highball Glass	Traditional tall glass for an alcoholic mixed drink.
High-Key Lighting	Lighting in which picture intensity produces limited dark areas.
High-Level Crossover	See PASSIVE CROSSOVER. See Also Passive Crossover
High-Tech Visuals	Visual presentations involving sophisticated and frequently complicated equipment such as lasers, multi-image, and mixed media equipment.
Hire	International term referring to “rent” a service or product.
Hiring Cost	The price paid by the organizer to the owner of the event facility.
Hiss	Unwanted random noise associated with audio tape, unmodulated record grooves and noisy amplifiers and other audio circuitry. In circuitry, hiss is caused by the thermal activity of the molecules in the materials of which that electronic component parts are made.
History	Record of an event over time.
Hoison Sauce	Chinese sauce used on Peking Duck.
Hold Harmless	A type of indemnity clause that requires one party to fully protect the other from a claim asserted. This would include the payment of costs or attorney fees.
Holding Room	A room backstage where speakers wait to go on. See READY ROOM. See Also Ready Room
Hollandaise Sauce	Sauce of egg yolks, clarified butter, lemon juice and spices.  Served on vegetables (e.g. Asparagus with Hollandaise Sauce) or on Eggs Benedict.
Hollow Circle Set-Up	Seating arrangement of tables and/or chairs all facing each other in a single circle.
Hollow Square Set-Up	Seating arrangement of tables set in a square (or rectangle) with chairs placed around the outside of the table. Center (inside) table is hollow.
Hologram	A photographic effect using lasers to obtain a three dimensional image on a flat surface.
Homard	(oh mard) Lobster. A true lobster has two front claws.  Most 'lobster tails' come from Rock Lobster or Spiny Lobster, which are actually a large variety of crawfish.
Honorarium	Voluntary payment made for services where no fee is legally required.
Honorary	Non-paid, generally referring to an appointment within a committee or group and in recognition of expertise or services rendered.
Horizontal Show	An exhibition at which the products or services being displayed represent all segments of an industry or profession. See EXHIBITION. See Also VERTICAL SHOW. See Also Exhibition , Vertical Show
Hors d'Oeuvres	Small appetizers; Hot and/or cold finger foods served at a reception.
Horseshoe Set-Up	Tables set up in rounded U shape with chairs placed outside. Chairs inside if needed. See U-SHAPE SET-UP. See Also U-Shape Set-Up
Hospitality Program	Plan for receiving and entertaining guests in a friendly and generous manner.
Hospitality Suite/Event	1) Room or suite of rooms used to entertain guests. 2) An event in the United States usually separate from the exhibit, in which refreshments are served and exhibitor personnel and visitors socialize.
Host	On a network, any computer that is a repository for services available to other computers on the network.
Host	An association, corporate body, town, country or other such party that invites an event to take place within or under its jurisdiction or its financial responsibility.
Host Bar	Private room bar set up where guests do not pay for drinks. See OPEN BAR. See Also SPONSORED BAR. See Also Open Bar , Sponsored Bar
Host Country	Country that invites an event to take place within or under its jurisdiction.
Hot Camera	Camera that is turned on.
Hot Spot	Undesirable concentration of light on one area of slide or film.
Hot Tag VIP	Luggage tagged for special handling.
Hotel Accommodation	Sleeping Room(s) at a hotel and rooming arrangements; usually specifying the hotel classification in terms of its amenities, facilities, level of service and cost.
Hotel Classifications	There is no official classification or accepted rating system for U.S. hotels, but the following definitions are generally understood: BUDGET - Budget hotels and motels are reasonably priced accommodations and are the fastest growing segment of the U.S. lodging industry. In general they provide a room with a bed, TV, telephone and shower as well as free parking. They often do not have room service or a restaurant. DELUXE - a top-grade hotel, all rooms have a private bath; all the usual public rooms and services are provided a high standard of decor and services is maintained. FIRST CLASS and LUXURY - Many luxury hotels in the U.S. exist in large cities, offering a number of special services to the business and leisure traveler. A U.S. first class hotel offers, for example, first rate restaurants, banquet and conference rooms, valet service, room service, cable TV and complimentary morning newspapers. MODERATE - These hotels account for nearly 75% of available U.S. hotel rooms. They have on-site restaurants, bar and perhaps conference rooms, as well as the basic services. TOURIST ECONOMY or SECOND CLASS - Budget operations; most have private baths; services may be very limited.
Hotel Reservation	A contract between the hotel to provide a guest room on certain dates and rate and the guest who agrees to use the hotel on the specified dates at the agreed upon rate (and any other terms). If the guest breaches the reservation contract by being a no-show or failing to cancel on time, the hotel is owed damages. The usual term is the payment of one-night's room rate (they shouldn't charge you if they sell out. They also shouldn't charge tax unless required by state or local law). See DISHONORED RESERVATION. See Also Dishonored Reservation
Hotel Show	An exhibition held in a hotel. See EXHIBITION. See Also Exhibition
Hotel/Motel Tax	See TRANSIENT OCCUPANCY TAX. See Also Transient Occupancy Tax
House	A synonym for hotel commonly used within the industry. Examples are: full house, house count, house income, house bank and house charge.
House Account	Term for internal accounting by the facility to cover incidental expenses not chargeable to the event or another hotel account.
House Board	Switch panel from which all electrical fixtures are operated.
House Brand	Brand of wine or distilled spirits selected by a hotel or restaurant as their standard when no specific brand is specified.
House Count	Number of guests or sleeping rooms actually occupied on a particular night.
House Lights	Lighting of room separate from stage lighting.
House Manager	Person in charge of the auditorium side of a facility and not the stage production.
House Plan	Diagram depicting the function space in a facility or the entire facility.
House Wine	Brand of wine selected by a hotel or restaurant as their standard when no specific brand is specified.
Housekeeping	Facility department charged with maintaining and cleaning a venue.
Housekeeping Announcements	Announcements about schedule changes, locations of functions, and similar program information.
Housekeeping Instructions	Special directions to a facility’s housekeeping department from an event organizer that apply to that event and its attendees. Can include information such as the best time frame for refreshing sleeping rooms.
Houseman	Service-staff member who handles function-room set up and tear down. See BANQUET SET-UP. See Also Banquet Set-Up
Housing	Shelter or lodging.
Housing Bureau	Organization that provides reservation services for a group and its attendees.
Housing Form	Form used by event attendees to make reservations at an event-contracted hotel or housing facility.
Housing Priority Points	A system used by some event organizers to assign guest rooms in housing facilities or floor space in an exhibition where preferred locations are given to those exhibitors or sub-blocks with higher priority points. Points are also often awarded for consecutive years of attendance/exhibiting, early registration for an event, sponsorship levels, etc. Points are often earned (primarily by exhibitors or exhibiting companies) by booking guest room reservations within the Event Contracted Block (ECB). See Also EVENT CONTRACTED BLOCK, SUB-BLOCK. See Also Event-Contracted Block , Sub-Block
Housing Report	Document detailing housing utilization (reservations, pickup, etc.).
HSMAI	Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International. A member of the Convention Industry Council.
Hub & Spoke Tour	A TOUR that utilizes a central destination with side trips of varying length to nearby destinations. See Also Tour
Hub Airport	An airport used as a central point for passengers to make flight connections and for carriers to have maintenance facilities.
Hudson’s Stages of Developmental Learning	Stages of learning that one encounters throughout a lifetime; the priorities present in each stage affect the way a person learns.
Hue	Color or shade.
Human Arrow	A person who holds signage, greets guests, presents an enthusiastic demeanor, gives directions and keeps people moving in the right direction.
Humanist	A learner who seeks education in order to change his/her value structure and achieve personal goals.
Hurty Gurty	See GENIE LIFT. See Also Genie Lift
Hush Puppies	Small, round, fried cornbread with onions and spices, usually served with fish.
HVAC	Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. See A/C. See Also A/C
Hypertext	Text that links to another file and can be selected (clicked on) to go to another document, image or FTP (download) site.
Hz	Hertz. Unit of frequency equal to one cycle per second.
I&D	Installation & Dismantle. 1) The set-up and teardown of exhibits. 2) Firm that does I&D work. See ERECTION. See Also Erection
IAAM	International Association of Assembly Managers. A member of the Convention Industry Council.
IAAMC	International Association of Association Management Companies.
IAAPA	International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions.
IACC	International Association of Conference Centers. A member of the Convention Industry Council.
IACET	International Association for Continuing Education and Training.
IACVB	International Association of Convention and Visitor Bureaus. A member of the Convention Industry Council.
IAEM	International Association for Exhibition Management. A member of the Convention Industry Council.
IAHMP	International Association of Hispanic Meeting Planners.
IAMAT	International Association for Medical Assistance for Travelers.
IASB	International Association of Speakers Bureaus. A member of the Convention Industry Council.
IATA	1) (Pronounced ‘eye’-AH-ta’.) International Air Transport Association.
IATA #	Identification (or membership) number of travel agents who receive commission.
IATSE	International Association of Theatrical Stage Employees.
Ice Carving	Decorative carving from large block(s) of ice used to enhance a buffet or reception table.
Ice Wine	A dessert wine made by picking grapes that are frozen on the vine and pressing them before they thaw. Because the water in the grapes is frozen, the juice is concentrated, rich in flavor and high in sugar and acid. Ice wines are renowned in Germany, where they're called Eiswein (pronounced ICE-vine).
ICPA	Insurance Conference Planners Association. A member of the Convention Industry Council.
ICW	In Conjunction With. An event or function that occurs because of another event.
ID Sign	Exhibit booth/stand identification sign.
Idiot Card	Cue card which displays script to performers on stage in order to prompt lines. See CAMERA CARD. See Also CUE CARD. See Also Camera Card , Cue Card
IEA	International Exhibitors Association.
IFSEA	International Food Service Executives Association.
IHO	In honor of.
Illuminations	Lighting available in hall, built into exhibit, or available on a rental basis.
Illusion Mirror	Generally translucent mirror, which reflects when confronted with light source and is transparent when rear illuminated.
I-Mag	See IMAGE MAGNIFICATION. See Also Image Magnification
Image Magnification	Technology by which presenter’s image is projected onto a large screen, allowing large audiences to see details from the stage. Also called I-Mag.
Immigration	The process by which a government official verifies a person’s passport, visa or birth certificate.
Impaired Vision Seating	View of stage, from audience seating, which is blocked. See OBSTRUCTED VIEW. See Also Obstructed View
Impedance	Total amount of opposition to the flow of alternating currents in an electrical circuit which may comprise resistance, capacitance, inductance or reactance.
Import	To bring international goods into a country. In international sales, the importer is usually the buyer or an intermediary who accepts and transmits goods to the buyer. Compare With EXPORT. See Also Export
Import License	A document required and issued by some national governments authorizing the importation of goods into their individual countries.
In Conjunction With	ICW. An event or function that occurs because of another event.
In Sync	Sound and picture are synchronized or matched perfectly.
Inauguration Ceremony	A ceremony which marks the official beginning of a public event or at which officers of an organization officially assume their responsibilities. Often includes an address by a dignitary and possibly some form of dedication or token event such as cutting a ribbon, passing a gavel, laying a cornerstone or planting a tree.
Inbound Tour	A group of travelers whose trip originated in another city or country. See INBOUND TOUR OPERATOR. Compare With OUTBOUND TOUR. See Also Outbound Tour , Inbound Tour Operator
Inbound Tour Operator	A tour operator or travel agent who specializes in services for incoming visitors. Same As RECEPTIVE OPERATOR. See INBOUND TOUR. See Also Inbound Tour
Inbound Transfer	To move or travel toward a destination.
Incentive	Reward offered to stimulate greater effort.
Incentive Event	A reward event intended to showcase persons who meet or exceed sales or production goals.
Incentive Travel	A travel reward given by companies to employees to stimulate productivity.
Incentive Travel Company	Company which designs and handles some or all elements of incentive travel programs.
Incident Report	A document prepared to record information including time, date, location, parties involved, witnesses, and nature or description of an incident. See ACCIDENT REPORT. See Also Accident Report
Incidental Entertainment	Performers who must be watched to be appreciated, such as mimes, jugglers, dancers, and acrobats. See SIGHT ACTS. See Also Sight Acts
Incidentals	Expenses other than room and tax, billed to a guest’s account (e.g. phone, room service, etc.).
In-City Transport	The means of traveling within a city.
Inclusive	Price charged clients that includes all applicable gratuities and consumption taxes.
Inclusive Cost	Quoted cost; no extra costs to be added. Usually refers to tax and gratuity for food and beverage functions.
Inclusive Rate	1) The amount charged for a room, usually including breakfast (or other meals), taxes and service charge. See FULL AMERICAN PLAN(FAP). See Also MODIFIED AMERICAN PLAN (MAP). 2) When applied to food or beverage, includes taxes, gratuities and/or service charges. See Also Full American Plan , Modified American Plan
Inclusive Tour	A TOUR that includes all elements of an itinerary transportation, lodging, meals, porterage, sightseeing, etc., for a pre-established price. The terms and conditions of a tour contract should specify exactly what is covered. See Also Tour
Income Statement	A statement of revenues and expenses. Also known as a profit & loss statement.
Indemnification Clause	A contract clause in which one party agrees to pay damages or claims that the other party may be required to pay to another. For example, if a hotel is sued by an attendee that is injured at an event due to the fault of the group, an indemnification clause might require the group to pay back the hotel. Some times the law requires one party to indemnify another even without a specific clause. Generally, the terms of the clause will be followed over the state law. See HOLD HARMLESS. See Also Hold Harmless
Independent Contractor	Person contractually retained by another (other than as an employer) to perform specific tasks. The other person has no control over the independent contractor other than as provided in the contract. In the context of group travel, a tour manager or tour brochure designer/writer might be retained in this capacity.
Independent Service Contractor	Any company, other than the designated “official” contractors, providing services (display installation and dismantling, models/demonstrations, florist, photographer, audiovisual, etc.) employed by the exhibitor needing access to an exhibit any time during installation, event dates, and/or dismantling.
Independent Show Management Company	1) A contractor hired by an exhibitor to perform event services independent of event management-appointed contractors. See EXHIBITOR APPOINTED CONTRACTOR (EAC). 2) Any individual or company hired to perform event services on a contract basis. See Also Exhibitor Appointed Contractor
Independent Union	Labor union not affiliated with organizations e.g. Congress of Industrial Organizations or the American Federation of Labor.
Indirect Costs	Also called overhead or administrative costs, these are expenses not directly related to the event. They can include salaries, rent, and building and equipment maintenance.
Indirect Spending	Spending by a host destination’s travel industry businesses on goods and services from local suppliers on behalf of a specific event. See Also DIRECT SPENDING, ECONOMIC IMPACT, & INDUCED SPENDING. See Also Direct Spending , Economic Impact (Total) , Induced Spending
Individualized Learning Patterns	Learning activities that the learner completes by him/herself.
Induced Spending	Occurs when employees in a host destination’s travel industry and its suppliers spend their wages in the local economy. This chain of buying and selling among businesses and employees continues until the original direct spending leaks out of the local economy. See Also DIRECT SPENDING, INDIRECT SPENDING, & ECONOMIC IMPACT. See Also Direct Spending , Indirect Spending , Economic Impact (Total)
Inducements	Marketing tools or programs used to influence buying patterns and build customer loyalty.
Inductance	Term used to describe the electrical property of an inductor. A mechanical analogy of an inductor is an electrical spring; the inductor can store electrical energy fed into it and return it directly back into the circuit. The inductor tends to block the flow of AC currents depending on their frequency and to pass DC currents.
Induction Loop	Inductive transmitter for hearing aids, closed electric circuit within a building or auditorium which relays sound to a hearing aid.
Industrial Show	See VERTICAL SHOW. See Also HORIZONTAL SHOW. See Also Vertical Show , Horizontal Show
Informal Dress	Business suits or jackets with shirts and ties for men and day dresses or suits for women; usually taken to mean office and not recreational wear. Can include informal forms of national dress.
Informal Meeting	Informal gathering, not necessarily social.
Information Desk	Stand at which an official gives information.
Infrasonic	Sound at frequencies generally considered too low to be heard (sounds in the range of 1 to 15 Hertz). Infrasonic sound can be felt if its power level is sufficiently high and can cause nervousness and/or fatigue and disorientation in people exposed to it.
Infringement	Use of floor space outside exclusive booth/stand area.
Inherent Vice	An insurance term referring to any defect or other characteristic of a product that could result in damage to the product without external cause. For example, instability in a chemical that could cause it to explode spontaneously. Insurance policies may specifically exclude losses caused by inherent vice.
Inherently Flame Resistant	Material that is permanently flame resistant without chemical treatment.
In-House	1) Company’s travel reservations and ticketing occur in the company’s travel department staffed by the company’s own personnel. 2) Services offered the client that are directly provided by the company’s own personnel, as opposed to being subcontracted. 3) A guest who is present, i.e. if 300 rooms are occupied, there are 300 guests in house.
In-House Contractor	Contractor retained by a facility to be on-site and provide services as needed. In some cases, Planners are not required to use their services, but may be charged a surcharge or facility fee for bringing in an outside contractor for the same service. See EXCLUSIVE CONTRACTOR. See Also Exclusive Contractor
In-House Service	Service provided directly and entirely within the property.
Injection Modeling	Method of protecting exhibit properties.
Inland Bill of Lading	A Bill of Lading (B/L) used in transporting goods overland to the exporter's international carrier. Although a bill of lading can sometimes be used, it is usually necessary to prepare both an inland bill of lading and an ocean bill of lading for export shipments. See AIR WAYBILL. See Also BILL OF LADING, OCEAN BILL OF LADING, THROUGH BILL OF LADING. See Also Air Waybill , Bill of Lading , Ocean Bill of Lading , Through Bill of Lading
Inline Booth/Stand	Exhibit space with exhibit booths on either side and back. See INSIDE BOOTH/STAND. See Also Inside Booth/Stand
In-Plant	Company’s travel reservations and ticketing occur in the company’s travel department staffed by travel agency’s personnel.
Input Level	Level in units such as dB, volts or watts that a particular piece of electronic equipment receives at its input. Input levels are alternately described as nominal (the normal operating level) or maximum (the level above which distortion occurs).
Inquiry Card	A card, collected from attendees, requesting information about exhibitors. See LEAD. See Also Lead
INS	Marks chalked on the floor showing where drapes are to be hung.
Insert	1 ) Matted or framed portion of a picture. 2) Additional shot added to a scene at a later time. 3) Interchangeable copy or art panels.
Inside Booth/Stand	Exhibit space with exhibit booths/stands on both sides and back. See INLINE BOOTH/STAND. See Also Inline Booth/Stand
Inside Marketer	Sales rep: employee of speaker.
Inspection Trip	See FAMILIARIZATION TRIP (FAM TRIP). See Also SITE INSPECTION. See Also Familiarization Trip , Site Inspection
Installation	Setting up exhibit booth/stand and materials according to instructions and drawings.
Installation & Dismantle	I&D. 1) The set-up and teardown of exhibits. 2) Firm that does I&D work. See ERECTION. See Also Erection
Installer	Skilled labor used to set up displays at events. The union affiliation of the installer will vary based upon the locale and the facility in question.
Institute	In-depth instructional meeting providing intensive education on a particular subject.
Intangible Assets	Non-physical assets such as patents, trademarks, a customer base, brand recognition of your products, etc. Also known as goodwill.
Integrated Marketing	Marketing activities with a common focus on the marketplace or a customer segment. The execution of each individual piece of the integrated marketing plan is consistent with, and supportive of, each of the other pieces of the plan.
Integrated Meeting	A meeting which forms part of a larger event.
Integrated Symposium	A symposium which forms part of a larger event.
Intelligent Lighting	Lighting instruments that can be computer controlled to move light around the room, and project color and patterns on screens, scenery, walls or floor.
Interactive Exhibits	Exhibits in which the visitor is involved with the exhibit in a proactive way.
Interactive Learning	Learning activities in which learners participate together.
Interactive Response	A system which enables the audience to respond to prepared questions by means of a multifunction keypad. Responses are fed to a computer which tabulates them and displays the results graphically on a projection screen.
Interactive Video	Video programming which allows the viewer to be involved in an active way with the information to be presented. Often used in exhibits.
Inter-City Transport	The means of traveling between two cities.
Intercom	Audio system permitting two-way communication.
Interiorscapers	Designers/decorators who specialize in using decorations to enhance event and create a theme.
Interline Connection	An airline connection which involves transferring from a plane of one airline to that of another carrier. Also Called OFF-LINE CONNECTION.
Interlock	Synchronization of two or more sound and/or picture sources.
Intermediate Carrier	A carrier that transports a passenger or piece of baggage as part of an interline movement, but on which neither the point of origin nor destination is located.
Intermezzo	Intermission. The pause in dinner service just prior to the entree.  A sorbet is usually served to cleanse the palate.  A short period of dancing may also be included.
Intermodal Tour	TOUR using several forms of transportation such as plane, motorcoach, cruiseline and railroad to create a diversified and efficient tour package. See Also Tour
International Event	An event that draws a national and international audience. Typically 15% or more of attendees reside outside of the host country.
International Freight Forwarder	An independent business which handles export shipments for compensation. At the request of the shipper, the forwarder makes the actual arrangements and provides the necessary services for expediting the shipment to its overseas destination. The forwarder takes care of all documentation needed to move the shipment from origin to destination, making up and assembling the necessary documentation for submission to the bank in the exporter's name. The forwarder arranges for cargo insurance, makes the necessary overseas communications, and advises the shipper on overseas requirements of marking and labeling. The forwarder operates on a fee basis paid by the exporter and often receives an additional percentage of the freight charge from the common carrier. In the United States, an export freight forwarder must be licensed by the Federal Maritime Commission to handle ocean freight and by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) to handle air freight. An ocean freight forwarder dispatches shipments from the United States via common carriers, books or arranges space for the shipments, and handles the shipping documentation. See FREIGHT FORWARDER. See Also Freight Forwarder
International Sales Agent	An individual or firm that serves as the foreign representative of a domestic supplier and seeks sales abroad for the supplier.  See AGENT. See Also Agent
Internegative	Film negative of motion picture made from original raw negative to facilitate making of positive copies in quantity.
Internet Service Provider	ISP. A service that provides access to the Internet.
Interpretation	The process of explaining or translating. See CONSECUTIVE INTERPRETATION, INTERPRETATION IN RELAY, SIMULTANEOUS INTERPRETATION, TRANSLATION, WHISPERED INTERPRETATION, WIRELESS INFRARED INTERPRETING SYSTEM. See Also Consecutive Interpretation , Interpretation in Relay , Simultaneous Interpretation , Translation , Whispered Interpretation , Wireless Infrared Interpreting System
Interpretation in Relay	Oral translation utilizing two interpreters. Because the first interpreter is not master of the second language, another makes the final interpretation to the audience. See CONSECUTIVE INTERPRETATION, INTERPRETATION, SIMULTANEOUS INTERPRETATION, TRANSLATION, WHISPERED INTERPRETATION, WIRELESS INFRARED INTERPRETING SYSTEM. See Also Consecutive Interpretation , Interpretation , Simultaneous Interpretation , Translation , Whispered Interpretation , Wireless Infrared Interpreting System
Interpreter	An individual who explains or translates. See INTERPRETATION. See Also Interpretation
Interpreter’s Booth/Stand	A soundproof cubicle in which the interpreter works.
Intro	A slang term for an introduction.
Introduction	A carefully written opener about a speaker, which is delivered by the introducer at the beginning of a speech. A good introduction gives some ideas of the speaker’s credits, achievements, and honors and also answers the question: “Why this speaker, on this date, for this audience?”
Inventory	Total amount of furniture, equipment or other goods available in stock.
Invitation Letter	Letter to a potential speaker outlining the preliminary purpose and plans of an event and requesting their services.
Invitation Program	A provisional program sometimes incorporating a call for papers. The program gives details of venue, participants, agenda, accommodations, etc.
Invited Paper	Paper or speech on a specific subject submitted at the request of an event’s organizers. See GUEST SPEECH. See Also Guest Speech
Invited Speaker	A person who is invited to deliver a speech during the conference. Costs of travel, housing and appropriate appearance fees usually are provided for in the conference budget.
Invocation	Prayer at the beginning of a function.
Invoice	An itemized bill, including prices, of goods and services sold or shipped.
Involuntary Upgrade	Airline moves passenger to higher priced class at no charge.
IP Address	Internet Protocol Address. A numeric value unique to an individual computer that allows a signal to find that computer on a network. The IP address is assigned through an Internet Service Provider (ISP) or network administrator.
IPO	Individual Pays Own. See Also EPO, PAYS OWN. See Also EPO , Pay Own
Iris	A device used to alter the size of the beam of light, usually with an aperture near the gate of the fixture.
ISES	International Special Events Society. A member of the Convention Industry Council.
Island Booth/Stand	Booth/stand space with aisles on all four sides.
Island Exhibit	A three-dimensional display exposed to aisles on all four sides. See FREE FORM. See Also Free Form
Isometric	A perspective-like drawing, except that all lengths have the same proportion.
Itinerant	Reusable exhibit or display with scheduled shipping from place to place.
Jacket	1) Clear plastic covering to protect slides. 2) Short coat for the upper body, typically worn by food servers, bellmen, etc.
Jacobs Ladder	A series of horizontal panels held together with a vinyl bank.  These panels flip to expose the opposite side when top horizontal panel is mechanically turned.
Jambon	Ham.
Jan	Joint Army-Navy specification. Pertains to the stringent government specifications used for electronic components of specified quality or survivability or of tightly maintained quality control, and often means these parts will last longer, withstand higher temperatures voltages, currents, etc., than their consumer counterparts.
Janitorial Service	Service offered for cleaning booths/stands, facilities, etc.
Jardinière	Diced, mixed vegetables (jardin is garden in French).
Java	1) Slang for coffee. 2)An object-oriented programming language invented by Sun Microsystems. Java runs over the Internet and provides a secure environment for writing and executing World Wide Web applications.
J-Bar	Long-handled wooden pry bar with metal tip and wheels used in freight handling. Also Called JOHNSON BAR.
Jewel Light	Colored plastic or glass insert used in front of a light source in panel faces to identify, pinpoint, etc., areas.
Jig	Shop or bench set-up for making repetitive assemblies.
Jigger	A 1-ounce measure used in making alcoholic drinks.
Jigger Spout	Adapter on a liquor bottle used to eject a premeasured amount. Often called Posi-Pour™ which is a trademarked brand name for this type of device.
Jigging	Special dividers, sectioning and protective padding inside exhibit crates.
Jigsaw	Narrow blade set in a frame used with a vertical motion for cutting along wavy or irregular lines.
JLG	Brand name for equipment capable of lifting a person or persons to a given height. See HIGH JACKER. See Also MAN LIFT, SCISSOR LIFT, GENIE LIFT, HI LOW, FORKLIFT. See Also High Jacker , Man Lift , Scissor Lift , Genie Lift , HI LOW , Forklift/Forktruck
Job Box	See TROUBLE BOX. See Also Trouble Box
Job Description	List of duties that make up a particular job position.
Job Foreman	One who is in charge of specific projects.
Job Specification	List of qualities (e.g. work experience, education) a job applicant needs in order to be considered for a particular job.
Johnson Bar	Long-handled wooden pry bar with metal tip and wheels used in freight handling. Also Called J-BAR.
Joint Agreement	Union contract covering more than one employer and a union, more than one union and an employer, or a number of employees and a number of unions.
Joint Fares	Through-fare for travel on two or more airlines.
Jointing	Technique of rendering lumber surfaces perfectly straight and smooth so as to permit a perfect fit. This operation is usually performed on continuous automatic machine called a jointer.
Jones Plug	Multi-prong electrical connector.
Journeyman	Worker who has satisfactorily completed an apprenticeship in a skilled trade.
JPEG	Joint Photographic Experts Group. A graphic file format that has a sophisticated technique for compressing full-color bitmapped graphics, such as photographs. JPEG is most commonly mentioned as a format for image files.
Julienne	Vegetables cut in long thin slices.
Junction Box	A distribution point for electrical power.
Junior Suite	A hotel room that features a separate living-sitting area (although not a separate room), in addition to the bedroom.
Jurisdiction	1) The jobs that may be performed by a specific labor union. 2) The locality where a contractual dispute is decided. 3) In law, the ability of a court to hear and decide a matter brought before it.
Jurisdictional Dispute	Conflict between unions concerning the right to control certain jobs in a particular trade or industry.
Jury-Rig	To construct or rig in a temporary and makeshift way.
Justified Type	Type set with both margins flush often leaving odd spaces between words.
Kbps	Kilobits per second. A rate of data transmission over a computer network.
KD	Knock Down. Exhibit or display components requiring on-site assembly.
Keg	Cask-like container holding bulk quantities of beer, wine, soda pop, or soda pop syrup.
Kelvin Temperature	The temperature at which a light source should be in order to produce the proper color of light.
Key Card	Plastic card used in place of room key.
Key Light	Principal source of focused, intense illumination on a subject or area.
Keynote	Opening remarks or presentation at a meeting that sets the tone or theme of the event and motivates attendees.
Keynote Address	A session that opens or highlights the show, meeting or event.
Keynote Speaker	Speaker whose presentation establishes the theme or tone of the event.
Keystoning	Distortion of a projected image on a screen, where the image is wider on top and narrower on bottom. The image distorts from a rectangle into a trapezoid because the projector is above or below the center point of the screen; either the top or the bottom become wider because it is further away from the lens. To adjust for keystoning, the top of the screen can be tilted a little, either forward or back.  Many data projectors allow you to tilt the lens to solve the problem.
KHz	See KILOHERTZ. See Also Kilohertz
Kick Base	Base molding or band added to structure to absorb marring caused by brooms, mops, etc.
Kickback	A payment (money or property) made in return for influencing a buying or hiring decision. Generally thought of as an illegal payment, especially if it is not disclosed. See BLIND COMMISSION. See Also Blind Commission
Kilohertz	One thousand cycles per second; replaces the obsolete term kc (kilocycles). Abbreviated kHz.
Kimchee	(KIHM-chee) A spicy-hot, extraordinarily pungent condiment used in Korean cuisine. It is made from fermented vegetables, such as cabbage or turnips, that have been pickled, stored in sealed pots or jars, and buried in the ground. It is dug up and used as needed. Alternate spelling is Kimchi.
Kimchi	(KIHM-chee) A spicy-hot, extraordinarily pungent condiment used in Korean cuisine. It is made from fermented vegetables, such as cabbage or turnips, that have been pickled, stored in sealed pots or jars, and buried in the ground. It is dug up and used as needed. Alternate spelling is Kimchee.
Kine	Kinescope. Motion picture record of a television program.
King-Size Bed	Large bed usually measuring 76-by-80 inches (190-by-200 centimeters). A long king-size bed measures 76-by-84 inches (190-by-213 centimeters).
Kiosk	1) Free-standing pavilion or light structure, often inside a facility, where printed or electronic information is available. 2) A small enclosure for ticket sales, information, etc.
Kit	See EXHIBITOR MANUAL. See Also Exhibitor Manual
Klieg Light	See ELLIPSOIDAL SPOTLIGHT. See Also Ellipsoidal Spotlight
Knock Down	KD. Exhibit or display components requiring on-site assembly.
Knowles Theory	Proposes that for adults to learn, the following must be addressed: adults need to know why they need to learn something; adults need to learn through experience; adults view learning as problem solving; adults only learn when the material is immediately relevant.
Kodalith	Type of film.
KOH	A light fixture that is installed from catwalks, ceilings, or truss systems, and can easily light up a 10x20 booth/stand space. It cannot be installed on the exhibit itself due to the temperature at which it burns.
Kosher	Food prepared according to Jewish dietary laws pertaining not only to the type of food that may be eaten, but to the kinds of food that can be combined at one meal (e.g. meat and dairy may not be mixed). To meet kosher standards and receive the kosher seal, food must be prepared under a rabbi's supervision. In addition to the kinds of animals considered kosher (pigs and rabbits are among the non-kosher group), the laws also decree that animals be fed organically grown food and killed in the most humane manner possible. Kosher foods are becoming popular with health-conscious consumers.
Kraft Paper	An inexpensive wrapping paper.
Kreplach	Jewish ravioli.
L&D	Loss and Damage.
L/C	Document issued by a bank per instructions from a buyer of goods, authorizing the seller to draw a specified sum of money under specified terms. See LETTER OF CREDIT. See Also Letter of Credit
LA	Letter of Authority.
Labor	Refers to contracted workers who perform services. See CRAFTSPERSON. See Also Craftsperson
Labor Call	1) Method of securing union employees. 2) Time specified for labor to report, (e.g. 8:00 a.m. call). 3) Minimum amount for which union labor must be paid.  See CALL. See Also Call
Labor Desk	Location in exhibit hall where exhibitors can order labor on-site.
Labor Form	Form used by exhibitors requesting labor at exhibition. Usually found in the EXHIBITOR MANUAL. See Also Exhibitor Manual
Labor Policy	The principles established by a company to govern its dealings with its employees.
Labor Relations	Dealings between an employer and its employees or their representatives concerning matters of mutual interest.
Labor Union	Workforce organization requiting various rules to be followed by the employing facility advocating the well being of the workers.
Lag Bus	A coach which lingers at a destination to move group members who may have missed the scheduled vehicles.
Lagniappe	Creole term for giving something extra or unexpected.
Lahvosh	Cracker bread.
Lamination	The bonding under pressure of two or more materials to form a layer or sandwich of materials, e.g. plywood, plastic laminate.
Lamp	Light source for a projector.
Lamp Life	Estimated hours of a lamp’s (light bulb's) usefulness.
LAN	Local Area Network. A computer network limited to the immediate area, often the same building or floor of a building.
Lanai	Patio or balcony overlooking a garden or water.
Land Operator	A company that provides local services, transfers, sightseeing, guides, etc. See RECEPTIVE OPERATOR. See Also Receptive Operator
Landscape	1) Sign where width is larger than height; horizontal. 2) An area of ground that has been arranged for human use and enjoyment usually with plants and structure.
Langostino	Spanish for prawn (jumbo shrimp).
Langouste	French word for Spiny Lobster (giant crawfish).
Langoustine	French word for prawn (jumbo shrimp).
Lanyard	A cord or string worn around the neck, as in corded badges.
Large Group Patterns	Learning activities that require the participation of a large group of learners.
Laser Pointer	A compact instrument consisting of a visible light laser, used for pointing out features on a projected visual display.
Last Call	The final announcement to order bar beverages before bar service ends.
Last Name	Name by which all immediate family members are known. Women usually (but not always) adopt their husband’s surname upon marriage. Same as SURNAME, FAMILY NAME (preferred). Compare With GIVEN NAME. See Also Family Name , Given Name
Late Registration	A booking that is received after the stated deadline, usually incurring a penalty fee.
Launch	The commencement of a new product or show into the market.
Lav	Short for Lavatory or Lavaliere Microphone. See Also Lavatory , Microphone, Lavaliere
Lavatory	Sanitary convenience. Also Called TOILET, WATER CLOSET (WC).
Layout	Artist’s or designer’s indication of how a printed piece should look.
Layover	A city on an itinerary where a passenger deplanes and spends time before continuing.
Lazy Susan	Manually rotated tray on ball bearings. See TURNTABLE. See Also Turntable
LCD	Liquid Crystal Display. Display composed of mobile crystals in liquid suspension which align themselves and polarize light in response to a small electric charge. The crystals are manufactured in pockets within the display which correspond to areas of dark on light background.
LCD Projector	A self-contained unit with a LCD (liquid crystal display) panel, light source and lens that works with both PC and Mac computers and duplicates the image being shown on the monitor without any need for special software or complex setting up. See DATA PROJECTOR. See Also Data Projector , LCD
LCL	Less Than Carload.
LDP	Last Day to Purchase a ticket against an existent reservation.
Lead	1) According to the International Association of Convention & Visitors Bureaus, when an inquiry by a corporation/association/organization/independent event organizer that includes a request for a minimum of 10 sleeping rooms over a specific set/range of dates is forwarded by the CVB sales staff only to those hotels that meet the event organizer’s event criteria. A lead is more formalized than just exchanging/forwarding business cards to hotels. For convention center events, if the CVB sends a lead first to the convention center for date availability and then to the hotel(s) for room blocks as a matter of policy, this process should be counted as one (1) lead for reporting purposes. (rhymes with “seed”). 2) Potential customer. See SALES LEADS. 3) Amount of space between lines of type (rhymes with “dead”). See Also Sales Leads
Lead Dispatcher	On-site person responsible for overall transportation success or management.
Lead Retrieval	The process whereby exhibitors receive a potential customer’s contact information in a standardized manner. A system for capturing and following-up on leads generated at an exhibition.
Lead Sheet	Sales leads (RFPs) generated through a convention & visitors bureau or sales organization and forwarded out to potential suppliers. See REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS. See Also CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU. See Also Request for Proposals , Convention and Visitors Bureau
Lead Time	Time between when arrangements are made and when an event occurs, etc.
Lead Tracking	A manual or automated system used to conduct follow-up activities for sales prospects resulting from an event.
Leader	Utility tape added to beginning or end of audio tape or film.
Leadman	Employee who sets the pace for a group working on the same job or as a team.
Leakage	The unwanted pickup of stray sound from sources other than the intended source feeding a specific microphone channel.
Learning Environment	The physical, emotional, psychological, physiological and social factors surrounding the learning experience.
Learning Environment Specialist	LES. A designation offered by the Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA).
Lectern	A stand upon which a speaker may rest notes or books. May be “standing,” which rests on the floor, or “table-top” which is placed on a table. Often confused with PODIUM. See Also Podium
Lecture	Informative and instructional speech.
LED	Light Emitting Diode. A solid-state diode rectifier whose atomic properties cause it to emit light when electric current is passed through it. Current LED technology allows the emission of light from infrared through green frequencies, and visible light LEDs are available in colors from deep red to green.
Leg	The part of a trip between two scheduled stops.
Legal Connection	Prescribed minimum time to leave one flight and board another.
Leisure Services	A service concerned with the organization of free or unoccupied time.
Leko	Type of adjustable spotlight used to light lecterns, signs and areas that need a tightly focused pool of light. See ELLIPSOIDAL SPOTLIGHT. See Also LECTERN. See Also Ellipsoidal Spotlight , Lectern
Lenticular Screen	Screen finish with a characteristic silver-colored finish which has brighter reflective characteristics than a matte screen but with a wider viewing angle than a beaded screen. See SILVER LENTICULAR SCREEN. See Also Silver Lenticular Screen
LES	Learning Environment Specialist. A designation offered by the Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA).
Less Than Truckload	LTL. Rates applicable when the quantity of freight is less than the volume of truckload minimum weight.
Lessee	A person or entity who has possession of real or personal property under a lease. A tenant of real property under a lease.
Lessor	Person or organization which conveys property under a lease.
Letraset	Trade name for self adhesive vinyl letter.
Letter of Agreement	Contract. Document outlining proposed services, space, or products which becomes binding upon signature by authorized representatives of both parties. It lists services, foods, beverages, and so forth.
Letter of Credit	L/C. A document issued by a bank per instructions from a buyer of goods, authorizing the seller to draw a specified sum of money under specified terms. See CONFIRMED LETTER OF CREDIT. See Also Confirmed Letter of Credit
Level	Level of audio volume. The term level refers to the power magnitude in either electrical watt or acoustic watts but is often incorrectly used to denote voltage. See GAIN. See Also Gain
LFR	Lowest Fare Routing. The least expensive airfare available to the destination.
Liability	Legal responsibility. An obligation to pay an amount in damages. In a non-legal context, something that is a negative factor.
Liability Clause	Part of a contract outlining conditions of liability.
Liability Disclaimer	Legal statement releasing the organization from responsibility for any arrangements made by attendees with services listed by the organization (e.g., child care).
Liability Insurance	An insurance policy that protects you in the event that there is bodily injury or property damage to other people. The liability can be because of negligence or a failure to live up to promises made under a contract.
Liability Law	System of laws designed to protect people from damages caused by a party behaving in a negligent manner and creating or being responsible for harm as the result of that behavior.
Liaison	A close collaboration for smooth coordination.
Liaison Interpreter	Person interpreting a conversation between two or more persons from one or more foreign languages into his mother tongue and vice-versa.
License	Written permission granted by an authority to engage in a specific action or business.
Licensing Agreement	A right or permission granted by the owner of a property (tangible or intangible) to engage in some business or occupation or engage in some transaction, which would be unlawful without such right, or permission. A business arrangement in which the manufacturer of a product (or a firm with proprietary rights over certain technology, trademarks, etc.) grants permission to some other group or individual to manufacture that product (or make use of that proprietary material) in return for specified royalties or other payment. Many convention center agreements are written as license agreements.
Lifelong Learning	An ongoing process in which an individual actively seeks to understand and contribute to change.
Lift	Number of airplane seats available on flights to a destination.
Lift Truck	Forklift.
Light Bar	A bar with a light that hangs behind a header.
Light Box	Enclosure with lighting and translucent face of plastic or glass.
Light Organ	Electronic device which allows sound waves to determine the color or intensity of lighting. An outmoded term and device from the 60’s; we now have audio sensitive controllers.
Light Table	Illuminated glass-covered table used for viewing and editing slides.
Lightface	Light type distinguished from medium or boldface.
Lighting	1) Service offered by electrical contractor for illumination.  2) Booth/stand or hall illumination. 3) Existing light provided by the venue for functionality and safety. 4) Controlled application of the art of lighting to impact sales, achieve atmosphere and otherwise enhance the experience of the event.
Lighting Control Console	Desk-type housing, used to contain the controls required for adjusting production lighting. See MASTER CONTROL. See Also Master Control
Lighting Director	Person who designs the lighting, directs placement of lighting equipment, and calls lighting cues on-site.
Lighting Grid	Structures used to support lights and electrical outlets.
Lighting Plot	A print showing the location and type of all lights used in a booth/stand.
Lighting Truss	A construction of tubular steel or aluminum alloy onto which lighting instruments are hung and which is in turn suspended above the stage or exhibit.
Likert Scaling	Common question format, which uses standardized response options.
Limited Consumption Bar	Host establishes the maximum dollar amount to be spent at an open bar. Bar is closed or converted to cash when limit is reached.
Limited Power of Attorney	Permits the customs broker to complete the customs document upon the return of your shipment to the country of origin. A Power of Attorney allows one person to act as agent for another. A Limited Power of Attorney grants the right to act in only limited circumstances.
Limiter	Audio amplifier whose output amplification rate of change is less than its input signal amplitude rate of change. While compressors are used to reduce the dynamic range of program signals either to make everything sound louder, or to automatically control sudden large changes in signal amplitude such as in the case of recording vocalists, limiters are used to prevent dynamic transient signal peaks from exceeding a pre-set amplitude. Limiters are usually required when broadcast signals are fed to telephone lines and are useful to prevent power amplifiers clipping and overdriving in large sound systems. Limiters sometimes include circuits that allow the user to adjust the time it takes to start reducing the signal amplitude (attack) to ease up on the compression (release), and also the input and output gain.
Line Level	Average (power) level at which a signal is output from devices like mixers, cassette decks and other devices which process sound. Technically, this corresponds to –30 dBM (one microwatt) to +30 dBM (one watt).
Line of Sight	Unobstructed line of vision from audience to stage. See SIGHTLINES. See Also Sightlines
Line Switch	Electrical on/off switch used directly in wiring to control, by make or break, the flow of current.
Linear Display	Linear exhibits are generally 10’ deep. They are offered in 10’ or 15’ widths and can be combined to create an exhibit of almost any length.
Linen	Tablecloths and napkins. See NAPERY. See Also Napery
Link	Using hypertext, a link is a selectable connection from one word, picture or information object to another. From a Web site, a link points to content.
Liqueur	Sweet alcoholic beverages made by infusing flavor from seeds, fruits, herbs, flowers, nuts or spices with a spirit, such as Brandy, Rum or Whiskey. Essential oils and extracts are used for flavor. Less expensive brands use artificial flavoring. Most liqueurs are made with secret formulas. Also called cordials, they are high in alcohol and range from 49 proof for Cherry Heering to 110 proof for green Chartreuse. The crème liqueurs, such as Creme de Menthe, are sweeter and more syrupy. Liqueurs were originally used as a digestive. They are usually served after dinner but are part of many cocktails. Liqueurs can also be used in cooking (e.g. desserts). Examples are: Absinthe, Amaretto, Anisette, Benedictine, Cointreau, Creme de Cacao, Creme de Cassis, Drambuie, Frangelico, Galliano, Grand Mariner, Irish Mist, Kahlua, Midori, Ouzo, Pernod, Sambuca, Sloe Gin, Southern Comfort, Tia Maria, Triple Sec.  See CORDIAL. See Also Cordial
Liqueur Cart	Rolling cart that includes a selection of cordials.  Usually passed after dinner.
Liquid Crystal Display	LCD. Display composed of mobile crystals in liquid suspension which align themselves and polarize light in response to a small electric change. The crystals are manufactured in pockets within the display which correspond to areas of dark on light background. See LCD. See Also LCD
Liquidity	The percentage of an enterprise's assets that can be quickly converted into cash.
Liquor	1) A distilled, alcoholic beverage made from a fermented mash of various ingredients including grains or other plants. Examples: Bourbon, Gin, Vodka, Rum, Scotch and Tequila. Also called Spirits. 2) An oyster's natural juices are referred to as its liquor. 3) Pot liquor or pot likker refers to the liquid resulting from cooking meats or vegetables.
Liquor License	A U.S. state granted right to sell and/or serve alcoholic beverages. Liquor license requirements vary by jurisdictions. Always check local liquor laws. There are three basic types of licenses: 1) On-Sale: Liquor is sold and must be consumed on the premises (bar or banquet room). 2) Off-Sale: Liquor is sold unopened and must be consumed off the premises (liquor store). 3) Beer and Wine: not authorized to sell spirits. Liquor licenses are based on the physical premises. If you are holding an event at a venue without a liquor license, you must obtain a temporary permit.
List of Exhibitors	List of exhibiting firms, usually with location of their exhibit. May be arranged alphabetically, by category, or both and usually lists personnel who will be in attendance.
List of Participants	Register of delegates and accompanying persons attending an event.
Listing	A speaker grants the right to a speakers bureau to list the speaker as available. See BUREAU LISTING. See Also Bureau Listing
Lit Rack	Literature Rack. Device used to hold literature or brochures.
Liter	Metric unit of measurement used to package spirits and wines.  Equal to approximately one quart (33.8 ounces). Alternate spelling is Litre.
Literature Rack	Devices used to hold literature or brochures. Also Called LIT RACK.
Litre	Metric unit of measurement used to package spirits and wines.  Equal to approximately one quart (33.8 ounces). Alternate spelling is Liter.
Load Chart	Chart showing the weight of shipments loaded in a trailer and the position in the vehicle of larger items, dangerous articles or special-attention shipments.
Load Factor	Average number of seats occupied.
Load In/Out	Scheduled times for crew to load and unload equipment.
Load Site	Location from which participants will board vehicles for transfers.
Loading Dock	Area on premises where goods are received.  Usually a raised area that backloading trucks can back up to and offload freight easily.
Loadlock	A metal brace to secure partial loads within trailers and railway cars.
Lobby	1) Public area which serves as an entrance or waiting area. 2) To engage in actions designed at influencing public officials toward a desired action.
Local	Organization of employees in one area or in one company or a group of companies, chartered by and affiliated with a national or international union.
Local Beer/Wine	Beer or wine produced or distributed locally.  Often boutique wineries or microbreweries.
Local Committee	A group of people bringing specific expertise of the locality and facilities of a given area.
Local Event	An event, such as a graduation ceremony, local festival, etc., that draws its audience primarily from the local market. Typically 80% of attendees reside within a 50 mile (80 km) of radius of the event site. Local audiences typically do not require overnight accommodations. See Also NATIONAL EVENT, REGIONAL EVENT, & STATE/PROVINCE EVENT. See Also National Event , Regional Event , State/Province Event
Local Fare	An airfare published by a carrier between two cities.
Local Host	A group of local people who carry out the strategies and policies established for the organization of an event held in their geographic area. See ORGANIZING COMMITTEE. See Also Organizing Committee
Lockout	1) Refusal by a facility to allow guests access to their guest rooms. 2) Labor action where employers refuse access to the facility by employees.
Lock-Up	Storage area which can be locked.
Logistics	Procurement, maintenance and transportation of materials. Involves all related functions and services.
Logo	Symbol, often trademarked, that identifies an organization or event.
Long Distance Dialing	The ability to place, and control billing for long distance telephone access, usually from an event room or show floor location. Directions on whether or not long distance dialing should be available from a specific location during an event should be indicated on function orders associated with that location and be included in the event’s specifications guide. See RESTRICTED DIALING. See Also Restricted Dialing
Loop	Closed electric circuit.
Loop Fabric	Fabric to which Velcro®  fastener fabric will adhere.
Loop Projector	Projector modified to run film that has been spliced into continuous loop.
Loose Jig	Removable support in shipping case.
Loss Leader	Item offered by a retailer at cost or less than cost to attract customers.  Also referred to as a price leader.
Lost Opportunity	An event in the lead or tentative stage that is subsequently lost by a destination or facility. This does not include venue changes within a destination. According to the International Association of Convention & Visitor Bureaus, the local CVB should track the number of estimated room nights, attendance and attendee spending and the reason associated with the lost opportunity. Sometimes called LOST BUSINESS.
Loudness	Sound volume as it is detected by the average human ear. Hearing is non-flat, and this non-flatness varies with changes in absolute SPL (Sound Pressure Level).
Loudspeaker	Audio speaker used to magnify sound in a function room or large area.
Lounge	1) A public room (as in a hotel, club, or restaurant) where cocktails and other drinks are served. 2) A room or other area in an event venue designated as a place for attendees to rest and/or get refreshments.
Low Season	Period when the demand for a supplier’s product or service is lowest. Prices general decrease in low season. Also Called VALUE SEASON. Compare With HIGH SEASON. See Also High Season
Low Voltage	Term applied to currents of 24 volts or less. Must be transformed from normal 110 volt input. Useful in animation, lighted model, etc.
Low-Balling	Giving a deceptively low price or estimate.
Lowboy	A type of truck that can be adapted for picking up loads at ground level.
Lower Case	Small letters, as distinguished from capital letters. Abbreviated lc.
Low-Key Lighting	Lighting in which picture intensity produces limited bright areas.
LTA	Lost Ticket Application. An application to request a refund on a lost airline ticket. There is often an additional charge for the application.
Lucite	Term defining plastic similar to Plexiglas, an acrylic plastic.
Lumiline	Slim, cylindrical, incandescent lamp; used as a substitute for fluorescent lamps where dimming is required.
Lunch	A light noonday meal, sometimes with speeches or presentations. Sometimes called Luncheon.
Luncheon	Lunch. A light noonday meal, sometimes with speeches or presentations.
Lyonnaise	Cooked with onions (e.g. Lyonnaise Potatoes).
MA Form	Document required by Canadian Customs identifying shipper, seller, consignee, terms, date of shipment, material being sold/shipped, classification code, quantity, unit and total prices. Additional information required on the invoice depends on shipper and consignee arrangements. See also CANADIAN CUSTOMS INVOICE. See Also Canadian Customs Invoice
Macédoine	(mass ee dohn) Mixture of vegetables or fruits.
Magnetic Key Systems	Means by which doors in hotels or other facilities are locked or unlocked.  Usually, these are cards as opposed to actual keys.  The system permits security staff members to know what key was used to enter the room and at what time.
Magnetic Sound	Sound that is recorded on magnetic tape and may be incorporated on a film.
Magnum	Wine bottles that contain 1.5 liters; equal to 2 standard bottles of wine.
Mag-Stripe	Magnetic Stripe. A lead retrieval system using a magnetic strip on either the back of a paper badge (similar to some airline tickets) or on plastic badges similar to credit cards.
Mailing House	Company equipped to handle bulk mailings on behalf of an organization.
Mailing List	List of names and addresses of the persons to whom publicity material or other information is to be sent.
Main Tent	Room or hall where business sessions and entertainment productions are held.
Maître d’/Maître d' Hôtel	Floor manager or head waiter at a restaurant or catered function. Responsible for all aspects of meal service.
Major Arrival	Information included in the specifications guide for an event that notes approximate dates and times at which large numbers of event attendees can be expected to arrive at a facility (hotel) for check-in. This is intended to give the facility notice in order to prepare for front desk staffing. See GROUP ARRIVALS/DEPARTURES. See Also Group Arrivals/Departures
Major Departure	Information included in the specifications guide for an event that notes approximate dates and times at which large numbers of event attendees can be expected to check out of a facility (hotel). This is intended to give the facility notice in order to prepare for front desk staffing. See GROUP ARRIVALS/DEPARTURES. See Also Group Arrivals/Departures
Make Work Practices	Union practices for spreading work by limiting production or by requiring employment of more workers than necessary for a particular job. See FEATHERBEDDING. See Also Featherbedding
Man Lift	Equipment capable of lifting a person or persons to a given height. See HIGH JACKER. See Also JLG, SCISSOR LIFT, GENIE LIFT, HI LOW, FORKLIFT. See Also High Jacker , JLG , Scissor Lift , Genie Lift , HI LOW , Forklift/Forktruck
Management Committee	See EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE. See Also Executive Committee
Management Prerogatives	Rights and powers essential to operation of business such as hiring, production methods and the like, which management claims are outside the scope of collective bargaining and over which management maintains authority and responsibility.
Manager	A person hired to manage a speaker’s or entertainer’s business and/or personal affairs. The job of manager may include marketing the speaker’s services for more bookings or performing public relations work for the speaker
Managing Director	A principal executive officer.
Manhattan Clam Chowder	Clam soup made with a tomato base.
Manifest	Final official listing of all passengers and/or cargo aboard a transportation vehicle or vessel.
Manpower Agency	Firm specializing in providing day-labor workers.
Marine Insurance	Broadly, insurance covering loss or damage of goods at sea. Marine insurance will typically compensate the owner of merchandise for losses sustained from fire, shipwreck, piracy, and various other causes, but excludes losses which can be legally recovered from the carrier. See CREDIT RISK INSURANCE. See Also Credit Risk Insurance
Mark	Taped or chalked symbol on studio or stage floors designating exact placement of props and actors.
Marker Board	See WHITE BOARD. See Also White Board
Market Exclusivity	When the speaker limits the speakers bureau/agency to offering the speaker's services to a particular market or markets.
Market Life Cycle	The period of time that a substantial segment of the buying public is interested in purchasing a given product or service.
Market Penetration Pricing Strategy	Method by which cost of an item is derived, based on whether or not near term income is critical, and rapid market penetration for eventual market control is desired.
Market Segments	Categorization of people, organizations or businesses by professional discipline or primary areas of interest for the purposes of sales analysis or assignment.
Market Share	The percentage of the total sales (from all sources) of a service or product represented by the sales made by an enterprise. i.e.  sales divided by total sales.
Marketing	A process of identifying human wants and needs, and developing a plan to meet those wants and needs. Refers to everything involved with convincing an attendee to come to the event. Also refers to providing information to support the exhibit sales function.
Marking	Letters, numbers and other symbols placed on cargo packages to facilitate identification.
Marking the Carpet	Placing rolls of aisle carpet at the end of each aisle to facilitate laying the carpet, which is the last thing done before the event opens.
Markup	Difference between the cost and the selling price of a given product. Difference between the net rate charged by a tour operator, hotel, or other supplier and the retail-selling price of the service. Generally a percentage of the net rate rather than a fixed amount, as in a 20 percent markup on the net.
Marscapone Cheese	A rich Italian cream cheese, often used in Tiramisu.
Marshalling Yard	A holding area where trucks or buses check in and wait for instructions before delivering or picking up freight or passengers.
Mask	Scenic drape used to obscure undesirable view from the audience or to protect or cover. Also, an item used or worn to hide the face or covering an item with masking tape.
Masking	Sound applied to an environment to provide privacy in open areas. The term “masking” refers to the so-called “cocktail-party effect” where certain conversations are hard to pick out because similar sounds mask them. The ear-brain can be fooled into not hearing certain sounds if other sounds at lower volume but sufficient complexity are simultaneously present. Pink noise is most often used to cause intentional masking; its spectrum is shaped or filtered and fed to loudspeakers hidden above an acoustical tile ceiling.
Masking Drapes	Drapes used to cover storage and other unsightly areas.
Masonite	Trade name for hardboard.
Mass Learning Patterns