CORE ACTIVITIES AT EVENTS 

Although each event is organised in a different way, it is possible to identify consistent core activities at a back level. These activities match the expectations and desires according to which people actually participate in events. In order to explore them, we have carried out a three-year applied research project at the Donau-Universität Krems and the Universität Wien to investigate a variety of events and interview participants and organisers. Using cognitive and social science analyses, we then identifi ed, described and illustrated the nine most important core activities by using sense-making processes and are presented in a practice-oriented way especially for organisers. The more precisely an event meets the expectations – expressed in core activities – of the target group, the higher the possibility that participants are satisfi ed with the event, recommend it to others and want to participate again. To ensure that these concepts are not only scientifi cally described, but can also be used practically for events, we have created a compact handbook. In addition, we have developed a set of cards to create an innovative event independently (even without a book) in three steps. With the help of the book and the card set, organisers can develop and offer those services based on the selection of core activities that best suit the target audience. Three important dimensions have to be considered for each event.