CEMA Newsletter: April 2025

The 2025 CEMA Study Tour at HIMSS Global Health Conference & Exhibition offered a unique, behind-the-scenes look at one of the world’s largest and most influential healthcare technology events, drawing 30,000 attendees annually. For event leaders, this was a rare opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the strategies that drive the success of a conference of this scale and influence.

The Study Tour provided a front-row seat into HIMSS’ event production, from exclusive sessions with organizers to VIP-level tours of the logistics, branding, and sustainability efforts that make HIMSS a standout in the MedTech industry.

A major theme of this year’s tour was HIMSS’ strategic approach to attendee experience design. Event leaders walked away with actionable strategies for their own events, including:

• Personalized Content Journeys: HIMSS nailed personalized content journeys by using attendee data to recommend sessions and experiences. They factored in different learning styles, persona types, and generational preferences, and live demos (like experimental robotics) kept things fresh and engaging.
• Sustainability Practices: In addition to the typical sustainability efforts, HIMSS found simple yet genius ways to reduce waste, like reusable signage with interchangeable date pieces and modular, zip-on, zip-off column wraps.
• Blue Dot Technology: Indoor wayfinding solutions helped attendees seamlessly navigate the event via an in-app system that reduced confusion and optimized traffic flow.
• Influencer Marketing: HIMSS brought in 10 industry influencers to create fresh, engaging content from their unique perspectives. It was a great way to boost social media buzz and bring in more voices beyond the brand.
• And even more exclusive insights into attendee acquisition, space allocation, and measurement and reporting.

The study tour was a huge testament to the value of collaboration in creating meaningful experiences. Whether through small-group discussions or relaxed networking moments like dinner at Nobu Villa, CEMA knows how to curate a moment.

For CEMA members, the value of these Study Tours is unmatched. They provide insider access and the best networking opportunities available to our industry. Opus Agency is proud to sponsor select Study Tours and offer attendees an inside look at these events and strategies to help understand how other event leaders are finding success.

Want an insider look at other major, industry-defining events like HIMSS? Join CEMA and Opus Agency for future Study Tours, including the upcoming Salesforce World Tour London in June 2025 where Opus Agency is the lead event agency (which means even deeper insights for you).

We want to thank our event host Informa for the access to event planners and behind-the-scenes tours, as well as Caesars Entertainment for being such gracious hosts. From the excellent wellness session to dinners and accommodations, CEMA guests were given a high-level, curated experience.