A business events industry research study
How Ready Are You for the AI-Powered Future of Work?
Work is changing fast, and every industry—including business events—must adapt to artificial intelligence. Soundings launched the AI Impact Survey to understand where we stand, what teams need, and how to help professionals prepare for an AI-enabled future.
Phase I of the AI Impact Survey is now complete.
It revealed critical insights about where the business events industry stands on AI readiness:
AI maturity in the industry is just 2.6 out of 5, falling behind other sectors
Only 50% of organizations are currently integrating AI into workflows
41% see no immediate need for AI, showing a major perception gap
The study also introduced the AI Engagement Personas — a practical framework that helps individuals and leaders assess readiness, close skill gaps, and build confidence in an AI-enabled future.
Now, Phase II puts the insights in your hands.
Launched on June 25th, this new survey builds on Phase I findings to help you instantly uncover your personal AI Engagement Persona and receive practical learning ideas tailored to your unique AI journey. Your input will also help shape the next chapter of workforce transformation in the business events industry.
Download the Phase I
AI Impact Report
What we discovered during Phase I is both promising and urgent: professionals are engaging with AI in diverse and deeply personal ways, and they need targeted support to succeed. But we face an uncomfortable truth: the business events industry is lagging behind others in system-wide integration. This isn’t just a technology gap–it’s a potential business survival issue.
This next phase builds on the key findings from Phase I and focuses on the data points that revealed the most about workforce readiness.
By participating and sharing the survey, you’ll help deepen the research, refine the AI Engagement Personas, and shape the tools, training, and strategies the business events industry needs to move forward with confidence.
Phase II of the AI Impact Survey is Live!
✔ Take the survey & instantly discover your unique AI Engagement persona
✔ Share it with your teams
✔ Help shape the future of work in events
Qualitative & Quantitative Data Collection
Phase I Survey Complete
Phase II Survey Closes on September 12th, 2025
Phases
Multiple choice and short-answer survey to collect qualitative and quantitative data from both independent talent and organizations in all roles across the business events industry.
Analysis & Publishing of Findings
Pilot Study + Persona Framework Complete
Phase II Presented at IMEX America
Development of findings into white papers, trade publications, and presentations to help solve the following business issues: reshaping team structures, skill requirements, and future roles.
Bring the Insights to Your Team
Curious where your team stands on AI adoption? We offer a custom analysis designed for leaders who want to understand their team's AI readiness, identify gaps, and take action.
Through a team-based survey and persona-driven insights, you'll receive a high-level assessment of your organization’s current state, along with strategic recommendations and an AI implementation roadmap tailored to your goals. Ready to learn more? Request a consultation today.