Freeman announces Blueprint Digital Floor Plan Management System

Freeman has launched Blueprint, its web-based floor plan management system designed to transform the way show organisers plan, manage and sell event booth space. Originally launched in 2009 in the European, Middle Eastern and Asian markets as ShowPlans, Freeman is now launching the platform in the U.S. with a new name and new features.

Blueprint creates and stores digital floor plans directly in the cloud with an interface that can be used regardless of the users design or technical knowledge. Show organisers, sales teams and event marketers can quickly update floor plans, ensuring everyone has immediate access to the most current information.

Blueprint Pro, an advanced option, adds the ability to embed these digital floor plans into event websites. Prospective exhibitors and sponsors can see booth availability in real-time and book the space directly on the website, while attendees can more easily identify relevant booths to visit. Blueprint is backed by comprehensive Freeman support and user training.

“Blueprint takes a streamlined, yet comprehensive approach to address some of the complexities of planning a major show,” said Richard Maranville, chief digital officer at Freeman. “We’ve designed Blueprint to quickly get each stakeholder — from sales and marketing to technical teams and contractors — exactly what they need, no matter where they are or what device they are using. Also, because the process is entirely digital, organisers can access significantly more data. This will enable them to quickly identify their most popular spaces and exhibitors, helping them to better optimise the planning process and bringing dramatic benefits to users throughout the trade show and event ecosystem.”

Breakbulk Americas, one of the largest exhibitions for top-tier shippers and cargo service providers, recently implemented Blueprint as a pilot program. Using Blueprint to help with rebooking, they saw a significant increase in the percentage of space sold by the end of the current show.

“The visual aspect of the Blueprint floor plan had a profound impact on our recurring booth sales,” said Christian Thompson, event director of Breakbulk Americas. “Not only did it give exhibitors and attendees a comprehensive feel for what was available, it also showed us how popular our event is.”