Claude Molinari, general manager of SMG/Cobo Center in Detroit, announces the launch of a newly redesigned exhibitor and conference services online ordering system. Launched and developed during the 2018 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Cobo Center, the new system gives in-house and vendor event services a streamlined, transparent ordering process, which allows customer access to ordering history in Cobo from beginning to end.
“For our customers across the globe, this new software creates an online order system for Cobo event services that gives immediate information to users on order status, history and payment,” said Molinari. “Reports, statements, and receipts are digitized, simplified and always accessible.
The new Telling Stone Software enables users to:
- Access historical documentation for all orders previously placed for all events
- Make a payment in a safe and secure manner with the ability to retain a credit card on file and expedite the checkout process
- Review costs before placing orders
- Receive electronic receipts and order confirmations
- Review a detailed order history by event, making it easier to place orders for future events
- Create order reports from historical data for event planning and budget development
- Copy orders from one event to another
“We know that if any part of our operations can deliver the level of service we expect to the auto show, it can support any event in our facility,” said Molinari. “NAIAS is the world’s biggest auto show and it brings an international clientele with it. It was the perfect launching ground for us.”
Going paperless has been an ongoing part of the Cobo Center sustainability program. This online ordering system encourages the use of digital files to keep and exchange ordering information, not only in the facility, but for customers wherever they are working. The advanced technology creates an improved experience for customers who rely on us for their event’s success,” Molinari added. Implementation of new security and technology improvements at Cobo Center after the $279 million renovation to the building’s infrastructure, are a continued part of the ongoing resurgence of Cobo Center and Detroit.
With 723,000 square feet of exhibit space, Detroit’s Cobo Center boasts one of the largest contiguous exhibit floor spaces in North America and is the 17th largest convention center in the country. For more info, visit www.cobocenter.com.
Founded in 1977, SMG provides management services to 233 public assembly facilities including convention and exhibition centers, arenas, stadiums, theaters, performing arts centers, equestrian facilities, science centers and a variety of other venues. With facilities across the globe, SMG manages more than 15 million square feet of exhibition space and more than 1.5 million sports and entertainment seats. SMG provides venue management, sales, marketing, event booking and programming, construction and design consulting, and pre-opening service. For more info, visit www.smgworld.com.
On Sept. 9, 2009, operational control of Cobo Center transferred to the Detroit Regional Convention Facility Authority, under a collaborative agreement by the Michigan State Legislature, the City of Detroit, and Wayne, Oakland and Macomb counties. Each of these entities has an appointed member on the DRCFA Board. Larry Alexander is Chairman the Board as the member appointed by the Governor of the State of Michigan. For more info, visit: www.drcfa.org.
