ISSUES SOLVED  ::  The Expensive Set Problem

Split the Load

Hard sets are powerful. They convey a solid organization and a respect for members’ issues. The best sets put people at ease, inspire them and make them proud to be members. Hard sets are also expensive. All facts not lost on any of us. So, our first hard set request on a pipe and drape budget caused a touch of anxiety - and a lot of enthusiasm.

Our client needed the audience to feel the organization was solid and not behind the times. Our client was willing to pay a little more, but certainly not enough to cover the whole thing. Our client challenged us to strike a balance: meet their needs without wasting money or showing off.

So, we broke the rules: we developed a shared set that would last a couple of years. If we did it right, we could detail the sets differently for each show. As long as memberships didn’t overlap, our clients could get a custom, one off feel for a fraction of the cost. We were able to convince another of our clients - with a distinct membership - to share the costs.

We then approached one of our set companies. We could guarantee them a minimum of two set rentals per year of that set. They would build it once, store it and dress it differently for each use. The set company wins and the participating organizations split the costs.

Many producers frown on using the same set two years running. Well, we’re a bit put off by that. First, our client’s best interests are our primary concern. Second, it means turning away from a design challenge, which if it worked could provide many benefits.

We’re on our forth such arrangement and we feel strongly about it as a serious option. Our organizations feel better about their general sessions, their members feel better about the organization and our clients achieve a goal that single use sets do not allow.