A Brief Look At Differing Tinnitus Treatment Methods

Because tinnitus can be a symptom of an underlying medical condition, individuals should undergo a full examination by a certified ear specialist. Individuals should also have a complete medical examination. Special attention should be given to blood pressure, kidney function, drug intake, diet, and allergies, as these factors are sometimes associated with tinnitus.

Currently, there is no single treatment for tinnitus. Tinnitus treatment generally involves a multi-disciplinary approach and includes a variety of symptom management methods.

Conventional Drug Therapy:

While many drugs have been researched and used to relieve tinnitus, there is no drug specifically designed for tinnitus treatment. For people with chronic tinnitus, drug treatments may offer some success. Drugs that have been studied and used to treat tinnitus include anti-anxiety, antidepressants, antihistamines, anticonvulsants and anesthetics. While many people have been successful in better managing their tinnitus symptoms, drug therapy can have serious side effects.

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Alternative Treatments:

Many people have experienced tinnitus relief from the use of herbal preparations, homeopathic remedies, and vitamin and mineral regimens. Others have benefited from acupuncture, cranio-sacral therapy, magnets, hyperbaric oxygen, or hypnosis. Some individuals find massage therapy and energy-work, such as reiki, to be beneficial treatments for tinnitus. Although some individuals have reported a mild allergic reaction to herbal preparations, most alternative treatments carry very little risk.

Cochlear Implants: A cochlear implant is a device that sends electrical sound from the ear to the brain. An electrode is threaded into the cochlea (spiral-shaped cavity of the inner ear) and a receiver is implanted just beneath the skin behind the ear. Because electrode implantation destroys any remaining healthy hair cells, cochlear implants are only prescribed to deaf or near-deaf patients.

Tinnitus Maskers:

A non-medical option used to reduce or “mask” unwanted noise. Tinnitus maskers are worn like a hearing aid to produce a neutral white sound. Over 60% of patients with severe tinnitus report relief. A newer device is a tinnitus instrument, which is a combination hearing aid and masker. This device teaches the brain how to ignore tinnitus noise. Individuals must be tested and fitted for the tinnitus instrument.

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Hearing Aids:

Some tinnitus patients with hearing loss experience total or partial tinnitus relief while wearing hearing aids. Amplification from the hearing aid allows the aid wearer to hear background sounds, which takes away from the focus on the tinnitus noise.

Biofeedback: This relaxation technique has a 25-year history of successful treatment for pain and stress-related disorders. Biofeedback teaches people how to control certain body functions including pulse, muscle tension and skin temperature. The goal when using biofeedback for tinnitus treatment, is to decrease stress and anxiety levels that may be contributing to tinnitus. Biofeedback tinnitus therapy may require weekly sessions over several months before improvement is noticed. However, up to 80% of patients find some relief of their tinnitus symptoms and 20% have reported total relief.

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Project Management for Event Management Industry:

Event Management Projects is the process by which an event is planned, prepared, and produced. As with any other form of management, it encompasses the assessment, definition, acquisition, allocation, direction, control, and analysis of time, finances, people, products, services, and other resources to achieve objectives. An event project manager’s job is to oversee and arrange every aspect of an event, including researching, planning, organizing, implementing, controlling, and evaluating an event’s design, activities, and production.

Event Management Projects has been described as an “emerging profession” due to the fact that no academic, government-issued licensing, or private occupational certification credentials are required to practice this complex and responsibility-laden enterprise. Without such credentials, “professional” status is suspect and subject to degradation by the actions of untrained and inexperienced practitioners who are simply not aware of the scope of what needs to be learned in order to be qualified to work in this profession, as well as the scope of the legal and ethical responsibilities associated with such endeavors.

Event Management Projects encompasses a multitude of types of events. Although the Projects industry has delineated itself into various categories, all represent the planning and production of an event that brings people together at a particular time, in a particular place, for a particular purpose.  The event genres that may be considered as falling within the Event Management Projects profession for the purposes of this project are illustrated in below

The Event Genre of Event Management Projects

Business & Corporate Events

Any event that supports business objectives, including management functions, corporate communications, training, marketing, incentives, employee relations, and customer relations, scheduled alone or in conjunction with other events.

Cause-Related & Fundraising Events

An event created by or for a charitable or cause-related group for the purpose of attracting revenue, support, and/or awareness, scheduled alone or in conjunction with other events.

Exhibitions, Expositions & Fairs

An event bringing buyers and sellers and interested persons together to view and/or sell products, services, and other resources to a specific industry or the general public, scheduled alone or in conjunction with other events.

Entertainment & Leisure Events

A one-time or periodic, free or ticketed performance or exhibition event created for entertainment purposes, scheduled alone or in conjunction with other events.

Festivals

A cultural celebration, either secular or religious, created by and/or for the public, scheduled alone or in conjunction with other events. (Many festivals include bringing buyer and seller together in a festive atmosphere.)

Government & Civic Events

An event comprised of or created by or for political parties, communities, or municipal or national government entities, scheduled alone or in conjunction with other events.

Marketing Events

A commerce-oriented event to facilitate bringing buyer and seller together or to create awareness of a commercial product or service, scheduled alone or in conjunction with other events.

Meeting & Convention Events

The assembly of people for the purpose of exchanging information, debate or discussion, consensus or decisions, education, and relationship building, scheduled alone or in conjunction with other events.

Social/Life-Cycle Events

A private event, by invitation only, celebrating or commemorating a cultural, religious, communal, societal, or life-cycle occasion, scheduled alone or in conjunction with other events.

Sports Events

A spectator or participatory event involving recreational or competitive sport activities, scheduled alone or in conjunction with other events.

The Proposed Knowledge Domain Structure

Professional knowledge, which consists of technical knowledge, specialized skills, and ethical standards used to function within a professional jurisdiction, must be transformed into formal knowledge systems combined with experiential or situational knowledge systems.

The Uses of the Domain Structure

The proposed domain structure can serve numerous purposes and uses, not the least of which is the illustration of the scope and complexity of this profession to internal and external constituents and stakeholders, current and future practitioners, and allied and supplier industries, thereby increasing respect and reverence for the profession of Event Management Projects and legitimizing and “expertizing” the functions of event management.

The Next Stage

Further development, improvement, expansion, and ratification of the Event Management Projects depends on the review and input of a broad variety of industry practitioners, experts, certification bodies, and academicians from the full spectrum of event genres and industries.

Event Management Projects is an intricate weaving of the process and the scope of management functions. As illustrated below, the functional units (grouped by domain) form the warp fibers—the foundation threads of the fabric of an event. The processes—or weft threads—are interwoven through these foundations for each event, with the evaluation thread from one event forming the research thread for the next event.  If you eliminate one of the threads, the fabric of the event is weakened, leaving holes or places where it may unravel.

The Design domain focuses on the artistic interpretation and expression of the goals and objectives of the event project and its experiential dimensions, and is often the area of Event Management Projects that draws individuals to the occupation due to its creative opportunities.

Many of the units and topics represent specific specializations, disciplines, or its own distinct industry, with its own body of knowledge and credentials, some requiring specific licenses in many jurisdictions, with which the event manager must interact or subcontract in order to plan and produce an event.

At this stage the knowledge domain structure represents a simple mapping of concepts. It is not practical to numerically quantify the units or topics contained in the various certification competency blueprints, vocational qualifications, guides, and texts because, as yet, standard units and terminology have not been adopted by the industry as a whole. This initial taxonomy of general Project Management will serve as a platform that will enable expert participants, from a variety of disciplines around the world, to continue its refinement and develop a shared understanding and interaction.

The Taxonomy of the Administration Knowledge Domain for event project management

Financial Management

Accounting / Auditing

Asset Management

Bid Preparation

Budget Development

Business Plans

Cash Flow

Cash Handling Procedures

Change Controls

Cost/Benefit Analysis

Cost Controls

Cost Estimating

Credit Policies

Economic Impact

Financial Reporting

Fixed / Variable Costs

Foreign Currency

Inventory Control

Investments

Payables & Receivables

Pricing Structures

Profit Objectives

Purchasing Controls

Rate Negotiation

Resource Definition

Human Resources Management

Behavior Policies

Benefits Management

Conflict Resolution

Discipline

Employment Regulations

Hiring / Induction

Job Analysis

Job Descriptions

Labor Relations

Leadership

Motivation

Organizational Structure

Orientation

Paid Staff / Employees

Payroll Management

Performance Evaluation

Professional Development

Recognition Programs

Recruitment

Seasonal Staffing

Succession Planning

Supervision

Team Building

Temporary / Casual Labor

Temporary Staffing

Termination

Training

Uniforms

Union Labor

Volunteers

Information Management

Briefings / Debriefings

Communication Equipment

Communication Planning

Communication Protocols

Confidentiality Agreements

Database Management

Documentation Procedures

Document Design

Evaluation / Analysis

Feedback Systems

Information Acquisition

Information Asset Protection

Information Distribution

Intelligence Gathering

Lead Retrieval Systems

Library / Archives

Monitoring & Reporting

Presentations

Photography / Videography

Privacy Policies

Record Keeping Procedures

Procurement Management

Bid Solicitation

Change Controls

Contract Management

Performance Evaluation

Procurement Policies

Purchasing Procedures

Quality Control

Reimbursement Policies

RFPs / Briefs

Specifications Definition

Source Definition

Source Selection

Systems Management

Bookkeeping Systems

Change Control Systems

Communication Systems

Database Systems

Decision Making Systems

Document Generation

Governance

Integration Management

Inventory Systems

Knowledge Management

Maintenance Systems

Procedural Manuals

Purchasing Systems

Reservation / Booking Systems

Routing Systems

Security Systems

Technology Management

Computers

Digital

Electronics

Email & Voice Mail

Internet / Intranets

Office Equipment

Telecommunications

Video

Web-based

Wireless

Time Management

Activity Definition

Activity Sequencing

Change Controls

Critical Path Analysis

Deadline Definitions

Duration Estimation

Gantt Charts

Planning Tempo

Production Schedules

Program Agendas

Running Order

Schedule Control

Schedule Development

Time Lines

The Taxonomy of the Operations Knowledge Domain for event project management

Audience Management

Access Controls

Admission Controls

Admission Systems

Arrival / Departure Modes

Credentialing Systems

Crowd Management

Group Movements

Guest Relations

Housing Systems

Manifests

Pedestrian Traffic Flow

Protocol Requirements

Queue Management

Registration Systems

Seating Systems

Ticketing System

Ushering Systems

Communications Management

Announcement Protocols

Briefings / Debriefings

Channel Distribution

Command & Control

Communication Equipment

Contact Lists

Delegation

Event Orders

External Connectivity

Guiding / Coaching

Interpreter Services

Notifications

On-site Communications

Production Book

Public Address Systems

Scoring Systems

Translation Services

Verification Documentation

Infrastructure Management

Emergency Services

Gas Services

Handicap Services

Housekeeping / Maintenance

HVAC Systems

Lighting Systems

Medical Services

Parking

Participant Equipment

Power Services

Power Distribution

Recycling

Seating

Sewage Services

Shipping Services

Telecommunications

Traffic

Transportation

Utilities Usage Fees

Waste Management

Water

Logistics Management

Action Plans

Ceremonial Protocol

Checklists

Contractor Coordination

Dismantling

Installation

Loading Dock Management

Move-in

Move-out

Precedence Order

Replenishing

Requirements Definition

Running Order

Scope Definition

Staging / Marshalling

Task Analysis

Task Assignment

Task Identification

Task Interdependence

Task Monitoring

Terminology Agreement

Program Design Management

Activities

Alcohol Management

Ancillary Tours

Catering Management

Celebrities / Performers

Ceremonial: Invocation

Certification Requirements

Children’s Programs

Companion Programs

Competitions

Educational Objectives

Entertainment Management

Event Components

Exhibits

Feasibility Analysis

Gap Analysis

Learning Environments

Needs Assessment

Speakers / Participants

Sport/Recreational Activities

SWOT Analysis

Theme Development

Site Management

Ceremonial Equipment

Décor

Environmental Controls

Equipment Rentals

Furnishings

Maps

Mobile Facilities

Perimeter Controls

Signage

Site Development

Site Inspection Criteria

Site Plans / Diagrams

Site Selection Criteria

Site Selection / Contracting

Staging Equipment

Storage

Temporary Structures

Tenting

Stakeholder Management

Accountability

Authenticity

Client Management

Committees

Constituents

Cultural Differences

Economic Objectives

Facility Personnel

Government

Host Community

Media

Military

Officials & Authorities

Participants

Political Objectives

Prioritized Objectives

Protocol Management

Tourism / Convention Bureaus

Technical & Production Management

Audiovisual Services

Entertainment Equipment

Equipment Rentals

Lighting Equipment

Multi-Media

Performer Equipment

Projection Systems

Pyrotechnics

Sound Distribution

Sound Equipment

Special Effects

Stage Configurations

Staging Requirements

Technical Producers

Technical Rehearsals

Technicians / Engineers

The Taxonomy of the Marketing Knowledge Domain for event project management

Hospitality Management

Catering

Ceremonial Equipment

Client Entertainment

Dressing Rooms

Guest Services

Gifts / Amenities

Housing Services

Lounge Facilities

Ready Rooms

Reception Areas

Sponsor Benefits

VIP Services

Marketing Plan Management

Branding Requirements

Customer Intelligence

Customer Needs / Benefits

Customer Relationships

Database Building

Demographics

Differentiation

Image Enhancement

Loyalty / Affinity Programs

Marketing Objectives

Market Research

Market Segmentation

Marketing Mediums

Marketing Messages

Niche Marketing

Positioning

Product Definition

Product Pricing

Psychographics

Retention Marketing

ROI Evaluation

ROO Evaluation

Schedule Definition

Situation Analysis

Strategic Marketing

Target Market Definition

Materials Management

Advertising Specialties

Awards / Prizes

Badges / Passes / Credentials

Brochures

Coupons

Distribution

Flyers

Forms

Invitations

Media Kits

Newsletters

Posters

Printing Production

Printing Specifications

Programs

Registration Packets

Tickets

Videos / CD ROMs / DVDs / MP3

Merchandising Management

Brand Management

Collectables

Commemoratives

Concessions

Customer Service

Display

Distribution

Licensing

Logo Wear

Manufacture

Packaging

Souvenirs

Promotion Management

Advertising

Broadcasting

Ceremonies

Contests / Sweepstakes

Couponing

Cross Promotions

Direct Mail

Displays

FAM Tours

Giveaways

Internal / External

Internet / Intranet

Logo Management

Media Tie-ins

Narrowcasting

Networking

Pod-casting

Product Demonstrations

Product Sampling

Proof of Purchase Discounts

Sales Promotions

Special Appearances

Stunts

Trade Show Participation

Web-based

Public Relations Management

Disaster Recovery

Disaster Response

Media Conferences

Media Contact Lists

Media Kits

Media Previews

Media Relations

Media Releases

Photo Opportunities

Publication Articles

Requests for Coverage

Spokespersons

Sales Management

Box Office Operations

Cash Handling Procedures

Concession Sales

Coupon Redemption

Merchandise Sales

Proposal Delivery

Proposal Development

Proposal Packaging

Sales Techniques

Sponsorship Sales

Ticketing Operations

Web-based Sales

Sponsorship Management

Benefits Delivery

Benefits Packaging

Commercial Sponsorship

Cross Promotions

Donor & Patron Gifts

Grants & Underwriting

Image Management

In-kind Donations

Selling Sponsorships

Servicing Sponsors

Solicitation Proposals

Sponsorship Kits

Target Definition

Target Solicitation

The Taxonomy of the Risk Management Knowledge Domain for event project management

Compliance Management

Accessibility (ADA)

Alcohol / Liquor Laws

Antitrust Laws

Assembly Occupancy

Codes & Regulations

Consent Forms

Environmental Protection

Exemptions

Fire Safety

Food Service Codes

Intellectual Property

Licenses

Merchandise Licensing

Music Licensing

Permits

Releases

Safety Inspections

Sanctioning Bodies

Special Effects Codes

Union Jurisdictions

Waivers

Work Permits / Visas

Emergency Management

Audience Preparation

Civil Disorder

Command Structure

Communications Plan

Crowd Control

Disaster Preparedness

Emergency Action Plan (EAP)

Earthquake

Evacuations

Fire

Flood

Hazardous Materials

Medical Services

Mutual Aid Agreements

Power Loss

Response Accessibility

Response Equipment

Response Services

Severe Weather

Shutdown Procedures

Spokespersons

Terrorism

Threat Assessment

Training & Drills

Transportation Incident

Triage

Vehicles & Equipment

Warning Systems

Health & Safety Management

AED / CPR Certification

Chemical Hazards

Equipment Training

Fall Protection

Fire Safety Systems

Infectious Materials

Lighting / Visibility

Manual Handling Procedures

Noise Levels

Occupational Hazards

OSH Requirements

Pollution

Protective Equipment

Safety Meetings

Sanitation Systems

Slip & Trip Hazards

Structural Integrity

Waste Management

Insurance Management

Additionally Insured

Business Insurance

Cancellation

Certificates of Insurance

Contractually Required

Errors & Omissions

Event-Specific Insurance

Income Loss

Legal Requirements

Liability Exposures

Liquor Liability

Negligence / Liability

Property Loss / Damage

Workers Compensation

Legal & Ethics Management

Anti-Discrimination Laws

Attrition / Cancellation

Behavior Policies

Confidentiality

Contract Execution

Contract Management

Contract Negotiation

Dispute Resolution

Employment Laws

Equal Opportunity Policies

Fraud

Freedom of Information Act

Fundraising Laws

Gift Acceptance Policies

Liquor Laws

Not-for-Profit Laws

Perquisites

Privacy Laws

Public Assembly Laws

Public Safety Laws

Statutory Compliance

Taxation Laws

Terms & Conditions

Traffic / Transport Laws

Zoning Laws

Risk Assessment Management

Cause/Effect Analysis

Contingency Plans

Crisis Plans

Decision Tree Analysis

Documentation

Fault Tree Analysis

Hazard Mapping

Incident Reporting

Influence Diagram

Prevention Plans

Probability / Severity Analysis

Residual / Secondary Risk

Response Planning

Risk Analysis

Risk Avoidance

Risk Control

Risk Diffusion

Risk Documentation

Risk Fields

Risk Identification

Risk Mitigation

Risk Monitoring

Risk / Opportunity Analysis

Risk Resilience

Risk Retention

Risk Transference

Scenario Exercise

Walk-Through Inspections

Security Management

Access Control

Briefings

Command Center

Communications

Contracted Personnel

Credentials

Crime Deterrence

Crowd Control

Deployment

Detection Sweeps

Emergency Assistance

Equipment

Escorting

Guarding

Incident Reporting

Incident Response

Law Enforcement

Peer Security

Personal / VIP Protection

Private Security Personnel

Property Protection

Stewarding

Surveillance

Vehicles

Volunteer Personnel

Overview of Theme Design Management

The application of theme development principles and cultural iconography to communicate and integrate the purpose, message, image and branding of the event project.

Major Functions

Performance Elements

Theme Principles

·         Capture attention and create interest and involvement

·         Communicate and reinforce purpose and message

·         Establish a context and create attendee expectations

·         Integrate into a cohesive whole

Theme Development

·         Determine expectations through research and consultation

·         Identify core concepts, topics, and/or messages

·         Create multiple dimensions

·         Integrate essential characteristics of theme into a clear concept description

Cultural Iconography

·         Explore the cultural icon domains

·         Work from the familiar

·         Recognize and respect cultural and individual diversity

·         Distill the imagery

Creativity

·         Use a broad spectrum of stimuli

·         Conduct brainstorming and other idea-generating exercises

·         Remove restrictions of assumptions and tradition

·         Combine ideas in new ways and make connections between seemingly unrelated ideas

Theme Integration

·         Visualize all the event elements and link them to the theme

·         Incorporate the five senses

·         Integrate branding into all aspects of the event experience

·         Verify the operational and logistical practicality

The Case Study Analysis

Theme Principles

Celebrate the history of the Games and Italy’s rich contributions to theater, art, music, fashion, style, and sports heroes throughout the centuries
Showcase the city of Turin and the assets of the region
Meet IOC specifications for ceremonies
Create a spectacle for worldwide television coverage

Theme Development

Torino Games motto “Passion Lives Here”
Essential characteristics of “Rhythm, Passion and Speed”
Host objective to highlight and promote “all things Italian”
Portray the Olympic ideals

Cultural Iconography

Italian iconography

o        Film and theater; Fellini, Roberto Bolle of the La Scala Theatre

o        Art; Botticelli’s “The Birth of Venus,” Umberto Boccioni’s sculpture “Unique Forms of Continuity in Space”

o        Music; Renaissance trumpeters and drummers, Luciano Pavarotti, Puccini

o        Fashion; Armani, Moschino, supermodel Carla Bruni

o        History; Medieval Sbandieratori flag wavers, Renaissance and Baroque acrobats and floats

o        Sports; Olympic medalist participants, Formula One race car

Olympic iconography

o        Double X symbol of the twentieth Olympiad

o        Olympic rings

o        Olympic colors of blue, black, red, yellow, and green

o        Olympic torch, cauldron, and flame

o        Torino Games logo

o        Dove as the symbol of peace

Creativity

Aerial acrobatics
Disco music for athlete parade
Dove formation with vertical choreography
Ferrari Formula One race car
Olympic Flag carried by women only
Olympic Flame ignition
Olympic Rings
Pavarotti Opera stage
Pulsing heart and giant skier choreography
Recessed piazza in stage for athlete seating
Sparks of Passion inline skaters with flaming helmets
Synchronized “swimmer” routines through spandex piazza cover

Theme Integration

Passion

o        Bronze flame-projecting anvil

o        Beating heart dance routine

o        Olympic torch entry and flame ignition

o        Pyrotechnics

Rhythm

o        Drums in opening segment

o        Disco music for athlete parade

o        Medieval Sbandieratori flag wavers

Speed

o        Sparks of Passion skaters with flaming helmets

o        Skateboarders and inline skaters

o        Giant skier formations

o        Ferrari Formula One race car

Peace

o        Honor Guard of the Carabinieri and the Alpini

o        Jacques Rogge speech

o        Acrobatic formation of dove

o        John Lennon’s “Imagine”

Possible Discussion Topics

How “all things Italian” were highlighted and promoted
The iconic elements for:

o        Turin in specific

o        Italy in general

o        The Alpine region

o        The Winter Olympics

o        The Olympics in general

Historical origins of the various cultural icons and iconic elements used
The design benchmarks (highest, first, largest, etc.)

Integration Example — Speaker Selection

Integration, a Core Value of the framework, reflects the critical need to coordinate, synchronize and merge the variety and multitude of interactions, dependencies and interconnected elements included in an event project to ensure decisions incorporate all the factors influencing and influenced by those choices.

When you view the scope of the functional areas of the knowledge domains, as shown below, which illustrate the full scope of the responsibilities assigned to event organizers, it becomes clear that one item, one decision, or one element will be shaped by and will have an impact on every other aspect of the event project.

Let’s look at one element: selecting a speaker for a conference. This function would be under Content Development (or Content Management) within the Design domain.

Factors regarding this one element will interact with every other domain’s functional areas and decisions made about this speaker must be integrated throughout the scope of functional areas. For example, the chart below illustrates some of the questions and issues that must be considered for this single facet of the event project.

Keep in mind that this list is by no means exhaustive, nor does it take into account the fact that there are typically numerous speakers selected for even a small conference, and perhaps hundreds for a sizable convention. Also remember that when you answer any one of these questions, that answer must then be considered in the context of every other functional area.

ADMINISTRATION

Financial

What is the speaker’s fee or the honoraria to be paid? How and when will that payment be handled?
If no fee or honoraria, is there any other form of compensation for which the variable costs need to be included in the budget?
Will we be paying for the speaker’s airfare?
Will we be buying the ticket or reimbursing the speaker for it?
Are there contractual specifications for or limits on what fare we will pay for (economy, business class, first class)?
Will we be paying for the speaker’s hotel accommodations?
Are there incidentals (meals, ground transportation, etc.) that we will or will not reimburse?
Will speaker thank you gifts need to be purchased?

Human Resources

Who is responsible for or has the authority to conduct speaker selection?
Who will serve as the pre-event liaison for the speakers?
Who will serve as the on-site liaison for the speakers?
Do we need someone to meet the speaker at the airport?
Do we need an escort for the speaker to the site and / or on site?
Who will give the introduction for the speaker’s session?

Information

How will we collect session proposals or abstracts?
How will we handle correspondence with the speaker, e.g. session acceptance / denial, invitations, confirmations, thank you letters, etc.?
What forms will we need the speaker to fill out, e.g. AV requests forms, room set-up requests, session taping approvals, etc.?

Procurement

What types of speaker solicitation documents will we use, e.g. call for papers, call for abstracts, session proposal forms, etc.?
What specifications need to be included in solicitation materials, e.g. acceptable / suggested topics, session deliverables, target audience or content track, etc.?
What equipment or services will be need to be ordered for this speaker’s presentation, e.g. projection equipment, audience response systems, staging, captioning services, etc.?
How will we handle on-site changes and other requests?

Stakeholders

Are there any controversial issues surrounding this speaker that might cause problems in connection with his/her appearance, e.g. opposition, potential protests, political affiliations, etc.?
Are there strategic economic or political alliances that may be developed or enhanced by selecting this speaker?
How will the performance of this speaker and the value of his/her appearance be evaluated? How will this be used in communications with various stakeholders or stakeholder groups?

Systems

How will the speakers selected be incorporated into database systems, e.g. registration, badge processing, membership, etc.?
Will we be using an abstract management system for online submissions, speaker communications, PowerPoint and handout collection, etc.?

Time

When do we need abstracts or session proposals submitted?
By when do sessions and speakers need to be selected and confirmed?
How and when will we schedule sessions and presentations, e.g. time slots, tracks, keynotes, etc.?
How long will sessions be, e.g. one hour, 90 minutes, half-day, etc.? How long will this speaker’s presentation be?
How will we handle scheduling for speakers providing numerous different or repeat sessions?

DESIGN

Content

Has a needs assessment identified this topic or this speaker as suitable or desirable?
Has this topic been identified as necessary to meet educational requirements?
In what way is this speaker qualified to deliver this content?
What format will be used for this topic, e.g. keynote speech, facilitated interactive presentation, workshop, etc.?
How will we ensure speaker will deliver valuable content without blatant commercials for his/her products or services?

Entertainment

Will the speaker need a specific rehearsal time or period?
Will the speaker need a special room where he/she can organize or prepare for his/her presentation?
Will the speaker be expected to be part of or involved in any ancillary activities, e.g. golf tournament, exhibits, receptions, book signings, etc.?
Does the speaker need any coaching regarding presentation skills?

Environment

What type of seating configuration does the speaker desire / require, e.g. theater style, classroom, round table, etc.?
Does the speaker need special equipment, décor, or supplies procured and/or delivered?
Will the presentation include audience participation, and, if so, what will that require, e.g. steps onto stage, special aisles, etc.?

Food & Beverage

Will speaker be invited to or included in some / all meal functions for the conference?
Does the speaker have any dietary requirements?
Will exclusive water stations / bottled water be provided for speakers?
Will there be refreshments provided in a speaker ready room?

Production

Will the speaker be providing a PowerPoint and/or video presentation?
Does the room need special lighting for his/her presentation, e.g. darkened room, spotlighting, etc.?
What type of microphone(s) will be required, e.g. lectern, hand held, wireless, standing, etc.?
Will the speaker be using or demonstrating any special or theatrical effects, e.g. pyrotechnics, fog effects, sound effects, etc.?

Program

Where in the program agenda does this speaker appear, e.g. day, time slot, track, etc.?
Are there any scheduling conflicts that will affect attendance at this speaker’s presentation?
Is this session required for specific credits or certificates, and, if so does this session meet educational requirements, e.g. duration, content level, etc.?
Can this session accommodate anticipated attendance, e.g. room capacity, repetition within agenda, etc.?

Theme

Is there linkage between this presentation and the theme of the conference?
Will conference branding need to be included on handouts and/or PowerPoint presentations?
Has speaker been advised of any cultural or corporate customs on what must be avoided or incorporated into his/her presentation, e.g. attire, jargon, current events, gestures, etc.?

MARKETING

Marketing Plan

Is this speaker appropriate for or affiliated with the conference’s target market?
Does this speaker offer an entry into specific niche markets that could be exploited, e.g. track categories, exhibitors, etc.?
Has this speaker presented at previous conferences, and, if so, what were the satisfaction scores from previous evaluations?
Should this speaker be specifically highlighted in promotional activities?

Materials

What materials are needed from the speaker, e.g. handouts, PowerPoint presentation, etc.?
Will the speaker be providing additional handouts or amenities only at the session, e.g. checklists, workbooks, samples, etc., that need to be approved and/or promoted?
How will speaker be promoted in the program book, e.g. bio, photo, session description, etc.?
Will speaker presentations and/or handouts be provided to attendees in a handbook, CD, and/or on the web?

Merchandise

Will the speaker be allowed to sell own books or other products after his/her session?
Will audiotapes of the sessions be created for sale to attendees?
Will the speaker be asked to provide items for conference amenities or prizes, e.g. books, discount coupons, etc.?
Will speaker be given logo-imprinted items as thank you gift or in-room amenity?

Promotions

How, where, and when will speaker solicitation activities be conducted?
What materials do we need the speaker to provide for promotional activities, e.g. photo, bio, session description (including key words and/or deliverables), etc.?
In what format do we need these materials, e.g. digital photo and resolution, word count limits on bio and session description, minimum of three session deliverables, etc.?
Where will we include these materials, e.g. advance program, web site, blast e-mail and print advertisements, etc.?
Will speaker be offered personalized promotional materials for his/her own marketing activities or cross promotions?

Public Relations

Will speaker be suitable and available for interviews with the media?
Is speaker able to provide articles that may be submitted to industry publications in conjunction with the conference?
Are position statements and background information prepared for any controversial issues the speaker or his/her appearance may incite?

Sales

Will attendance at this speaker’s presentation require an additional charge or ticket?
Will speaker’s books and/or products be made available for sale by the conference before, during, and/or after the conference?
Will speaker allow the sale of audiotapes or videotapes of his/her presentation, and, if so, will there be any commission on sales paid to the speaker?

Sponsorship

Will this speaker’s appearance or presentation be suitable for packaging as a sponsorship?
Will this speaker’s appearance or presentation jeopardize any existing or potential sponsorship agreements?
Will the speaker be expected to make any special appearances or accommodations in conjunction with a sponsorship, e.g. hospitality functions, session introductions by sponsor, recognition of sponsor in presentation, etc.?

OPERATIONS

Attendees

Will attendees need to pre-register for this specific session in order to manage capacity limitations and/or minimums?
How will access to presentation be controlled, e.g. name badge, ticket, etc.?
How will CEU or other continuing education credits be tracked and reported?
Will expected or expressed popularity of this speaker or topic suggest repetition or expansion of this session or other crowd management strategies?

Communications

Has speaker been provided with contact name and numbers in case of travel problems or appearance cancellation?
Has speaker provided his/her contact information for conference updates and in case of program changes or cancellation?
When and with whom should speakers check-in to ensure their timely arrival?
Has speaker provided on site contact numbers, e.g. cell phone, hotel number, etc.?

Infrastructure

Does speaker need ground transportation provided?
If not, will speakers be provided with a designated parking area, or will parking fees be reimbursed?
Will this presentation generate any dangerous or hazardous waste, e.g. medical waste, chemicals, fire hazards, etc.?
Does this presentation or demonstration require any special utility hook-ups or services, e.g. Internet access, water, machinery, etc.?

Logistics

Does this presentation have extensive or unusual move-in / move-out requirements, e.g. length of set-up time, special displays, expansive AV requirements, etc.?
Does this presentation or session have any special machinery or equipment requirements, e.g. vehicles or apparatus, poster boards, waste containers, etc.?
Will speaker be charged for special room set-ups or services?

Participants

Are speakers given a complimentary registration package to the conference?
Will there be a separate registration desk for speakers?
Are speaker credentials (badges) different from other attendees, and, if so, how?
What instructions need to be provided to the speaker, in what form, and when?
Is the speaker bringing a guest or assistant who needs admittance credentials?

Site

In what room (location) will this session be held?
Will this session restrict use of the meeting room or adjacent areas, e.g. room clearing and cleaning, noise levels, pedestrian traffic limits, etc.?
Will speaker have an exhibit booth in the trade show?
If a speaker ready room or green room is to be provided, where will it be?
Will this speaker be housed in the headquarters hotel?

Technical

What staging will this presentation require, e.g. stage, platforms, display tables, lectern, etc.?
What AV equipment is required and will this speaker need technical assistance before the presentation?
Will technicians be required to operate any equipment during this presentation?
How will the speaker be advised regarding wireless microphone usage, e.g. turning it off during private conversations or when in the toilet?
What attendance tracking devices will be used and when, e.g. bar code scanners, RFID readers, etc.?

RISK

Compliance

How will we verify speakers are not using copyrighted materials other than their own?
What permissions do we need from the speakers to publish their copyrighted material?
Does this session include proprietary material that requires prohibition of recording by attendees?
What devices or services will be required to ensure this presentation is ADA compliant, e.g. assisted listening devices, captioning, sign language interpreters, etc.?
Does this presentation require any special permits, e.g. pyrotechnics, imported flowers, food preparation, etc.?

Decisions

How are speakers and session topics approved, e.g. peer review, program committee, etc.?
What do we do if complaints are received regarding a speaker’s presentation or behavior?
What contingency plans do we need for speaker no-show, equipment malfunctions, etc.?

Emergency

Does this speaker have any medical conditions that we need to be prepared for?
Will the speaker be asked to take any role in emergency management, e.g. exit location announcements, attendee sign-in manifest, etc.?
How will speaker be advised of the communication protocols in case of a crisis, e.g. calling security to report incidents, referring all media inquiries to official spokesperson, etc.?

Health/Safety

Will the room capacity for this session accommodate the likely attendance?
If demand exceeds capacity, how will we control access and accommodate those turned away?
Will any equipment or activities in this session block any exits?
Will any potentially hazardous materials, supplies, or equipment be used in this session, and, if so, how will these be controlled?
Will any participatory activities be conducted in this session that could cause injury or illness?

Insurance

Is this speaker’s participation in the conference covered in our current insurance policies?
Is loss of or damage to this speaker’s equipment covered under our current policies?
Does this presentation require any special liability coverage?
Does this session require waivers of indemnity signed by participants?

Legal

Will we have speakers sign a contract regarding their appearance at the conference, and, if so, what will it need to include?
What consent approvals will we need in order to record (audio and/or video) the speaker’s session(s) and make these available for sale or download?
What consent approvals (implicit or explicit) do we need in order to photograph the speaker and/or audience for print or electronic promotional materials and publications?
Are there any disclaimers needed in conjunction with this speaker or his/her presentation?

Security

Will security personnel be required to control access to this session?
Will security personnel be required to guard any equipment or materials used in this session?
Will security personnel be required to protect the safety and welfare of this speaker?
Will this speaker be providing his/her own personal protection personnel, e.g. Secret Service, bodyguards, etc.?
Will this speaker’s appearance involve any special security protocols, e.g. canine room sweep, bag check and walk-through magnetometer, identification and/or background checks, etc.?

GAUTAM KOPPALA,

POME AUTHOR

Everyone knows that when you need to purchase a hearing device, the hearing aid price can be expensive. There are ways that anyone can use to help you easily control what you spend on a hearing aid.

Knowing these ways will help you not only control the price you spend, but could also help you save money on the device that you choose to wear. Here are the most important ways that you want to use so you have control over the amount of money that you put into your hearing aids.

One: Don’t make a rush decision – Time is your best ally for finding the good prices for hearing aids. You can’t just make a rush decision to purchase the first one that you see because this could end up costing you a lot of money.

Instead you have to take time and do your research if you want the best chance possible of controlling how much you are willing to pay for your hearing device.

Two: Look at all of your hearing aid options – With so many different brands and styles of hearing aids these days, you have to look at all of your options before making your final decision. The different brands and styles will all vary in price and looking at your options is the best way to find the one that you like that also has a good price for you.

Three: Take advantage of the internet – With the internet at your fingertips these days you really have a powerful tool to help you find the best price possible for your hearing aid. Be sure you have a copy of your Audiogram from the audiologist and then go online and start looking at all of the different options available.

By taking time and using the internet you can easily save as much as 75% on your hearing device, but only if you are willing to not rush your decision. Keep your eyes open for discounts and coupons also for different hearing aids because this is a good way to save on them.

Now that you understand the best ways to use to help you easily control the hearing aid price; all that remains is to get started. Just remember that time and research are your best keys for finding the hearing device that is right for you for the best price possible for your budget. You don’t have to pay an outrageous amount of money if you just give yourself time.

www.FidelityHearingCenter.com Fidelity Hearing Center in Cerritos providing audiology, hearing testing, digital hearing aids, TVears and assistive listening devices. Dr. David J. DeKriek, Au.D. is Board Certified by the American Board of Audiology.

“assistive listening devices” – Finally Affordable Digital Hearing Aids That Help, the Open Ear

If you are surfing the web to get information about hearing aids before you buy, you are doing the right thing. The internet has begun to provide competition to an industry that has a unique and powerful hold over the sale of personal sound amplifying instruments. More and more companies are offering hearing aids, assisted listening devices, starter amplifiers and a variety of other instruments. From the simple buy it direct on line to the more complicated three or four step process; these buying opportunities are helping a very large and growing market discover that hearing help can be affordable.

The hearing industry has been a highly regulated industry for no apparent reason. The rational and methods implemented to maintain their hold on the dispensing of hearing aids and thus control the cost is beginning to erode. Like our eyes our ears ability diminishes as we age. With the advent of advanced medical science we will all live longer and better lives. But right now there are no pills for the eyes or ears. Ready made eyeglass magnifiers have been available for many years. No exams, medical waivers, fittings, and associated fees, they are readily available and affordable. Senior citizens thanks to new developments are now able to easily purchase an affordable hearing aid and control their own volume.

Leading the way the open ear style hearing aid (also called open fit) brings a very effective and affordable solution to the 3rd most common ailment of aging, (hearing loss is only behind arthritis and hypertension). The open ear style is a very small, highly sophisticated, 100% digital hearing device that provides comfortable, clear and natural sound quality while being nearly invisible when worn, and it does not plug the ear. The open ear style incorporates the best of amplification technology and universal fit components into an instrument designed to help you hear and understand speech. The open ear can also be manufactured and distributed affordably.

The open ear style benefits:

*No occlusion effect – the plugged sensation of traditional hearing aids.

*When you wear the open ear own voice sounds natural.

*Most include advanced feedback cancellation which helps eliminate the whistling that can occur with traditional hearing aids.

*Helps you hear and understand conversations in noisy rooms and listen to the TV without disturbing others.

*It is difficult for anyone to see the device.

*No custom ear molds required.

Many of us can hear speech we but can’t understand it. That’s because the most common type of hearing loss is high frequency hearing loss. Which means you can hear low frequency (bass) sounds quite well but will have trouble hearing the high frequency (treble) sounds. A high frequency hearing loss is most commonly associated with aging, noise exposure and tinnitus.

Conventional hearing aids plug the ear, helping to amplify the needed high frequency sounds, however all sound has to pass through the device so all sounds are amplified. To compensate, these devices require individual testing, custom programming and custom fitting to the wearer, making them expensive and often causing annoying side-effects such as, feedback, occlusion, discomfort and more.

The common high frequency loss makes it difficult to hear soft voices and to discern the spoken consonants, therefore understanding what is being said is troublesome normally, and becomes almost impossible when you are in noisy environments. Specifically designed to increase amplification in the voice range frequencies while minimizing the amplification of background noise frequencies, the open ear style provides volume and clarity for increased speech recognition. Pre-programming the open ear to provide hearing help for the vast majority and removing the expenses of testing, office visits, individual programming and custom molds makes sense.

Anybody who is having hearing difficulty needs to see a medical doctor and find out if simple amplification is appropriate for their condition, as you do with any ailment. Hearing aids are becoming available in two categories: those that require a professional for programming or fitting (molds etc.), and those hearing aids that do not need a professional for fitting. For the last category, the open ear style will lead the way and become just like other items over the counter that do not require a professional or a prescription.

The hearing industry argument that hearing amplification should not be readily available for health or safety issues holds no water. Has anyone ever died using a generic hearing device? IPOD users put plugs into their ears, and the sounds they produce sometime exceed 120Db – a dangerous level. Open ear hearing aids deserve the same uninhibited access by consumers. They will not work for everybody but will allow the majority of more than 25 million seniors that need hearing help, but cannot afford it, an opportunity to improve their lifestyle.

They deserve it.

Most people with hearing difficulties have to take the leap at some point in their life and make the decision to get a hearing instrument of some description. In order to ensure that they are fitted with the most suitable instrument for their ailment there are a number of processes to conduct. This article describes the thought process that people will go through before getting their ideal hearing aid in three easy steps:

Admitting There is A Problem

In some cases individuals will be reluctant to admit that they have hearing issues but before they can get any help they need to be fairly certain that their hearing needs looking at. There are lots of online tests that can be taken to establish roughly if there is a problem but usually if any of the following apply you should really be seeking help from a local audiologist:

- People appear to be mumbling.

- You ask people to repeat themselves a lot.

- The television, radio or telephone needs to be louder for you than anybody else.

- You have to face the person speaking to you so that you can make out everything they are saying.

- You have trouble understanding somebody when there is back ground noise.

The above five pointers are useful in assessing whether a hearing issue is present, but in the case of online hearing tests there are no universal parameters so variations in diagnosis are prevalent. The general rule of thumb however, is that if you are even considering the fact that you may need your ears checking then there is a high probability that you do.

Progressing to Professional Assistance

The next step to better hearing is deciding to visit an audiologist. An audiologist is a medical professional who has trained specifically in the hearing sector. Currently in the UK there are three ways to become a registered audiologist and this begins by obtaining either a:

- BSc degree in Audiology

- MSc in Audiology

- Post Graduate diploma in audiology

Once one of the above four year qualifications has been completed they are then eligible to become registered with the Council for Clinical Physiologists.

Once registered with the Council for Clinical Physiologists full audiologist status is obtained and with it comes the entitlement to diagnose and prescribe auditory aids. Things to look out for when selecting an audiologist include qualifications, years of experience and past employment. Any audiologist worth their salt should have no problem selling them self and certainly no problem offering up this information.

Finding the Right Audiologist

Now that you are armed with the information on what an audiologist is and what sort of qualifications they should have you need to find one close enough to you for you to book an appointment. With over 90% of the world population turning to the internet for help in this situation, a search engine is a logical place to start. A simple search for ‘Audiologist’ and your local area or ‘hearing aids’ and your local area should bring you up a list of local practitioners.

Having found the website of a local audiologist and concluded that their credentials and experience are acceptable it is time to make an appointment.

To summarise, in order to find the best hearing aid to suit your needs you need to first of all admit there is a problem, find out what makes a good audiologist and then go and locate a suitable audiologist in your local area. It is also prudent to opt for an audiologist that is independent and consequently not tied to one particular brand of hearing aid as if he or she is they will only be able to advise on a limited number of instruments.

department of speech and hearing , audiologist are crime.

If you have dizzy spells or imbalance this video shows how the rotational chair is used to help diagnose the cause. Audiologists are the experts at evaluating the degree and type of vestibular issue. Visit www.NowiHear.com and place your ZIP code into the “Locate a Licensed Audiologist” Directory. There you will find a Licensed Audiologist in your area. AuDNet promotes Audiology Care. AuDNet educates the consumer to “Ask for a Licensed Audiologist” and invites every consumer to compare the educational, training and experience requirements required to obtain a license as an Audiologist. Audiologists are NOT to be confused with Licensed Hearing Aid Specialists who are not required to obtain a formal education in Balance and Hearing Care but only a home study course -exam and a supervised experience selling hearing aids to become licensed. Audiologists must attend an accredited university and obtain a formal degree in Audiology. Visit www.NowiHear.com today!
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Cochlear Implants are prosthetic replacements for the inner ear and are only appropriate for people who receive minimal or no benefit from conventional hearing aids. Part of the devise is surgically implanted in the skull behind the ear and tiny wires are inserted into the cochlear. The other part of the devise is external and has a microphone, a speech processor and connecting cables. This book is a textbook that covers the scientific principles behind the device, the technology, how to assess candidates, how to implant the devices and what rehabilitation makes the most sense. The editor is the best known person in this field. One reviewer said “there is not smarter man in the world than Niparko.”

Rating: (out of 1 reviews)

List Price: $ 149.00

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