When Science Fiction Meets Reality

Eighty years after the first science fiction convention, geek culture has gone mainstream and facilitated exponential growth in the fandom convention industry. With fandom conventions facing increasing competition and changing demographics, standing out in the crowded convention space is essential. Dragon Con founded in 1987 created the idea of the multi-genre convention that has something for everyone. Since its inception, Dragon Con has changed to fit fans' evolving tastes and formed strategic relationships with key partners. With growth comes issues related to registration, wait lines, harassment and security which need to be addressed while trying to take into account the younger and more diverse fandoms.

Towards Sustainable Human Resource Development of Convention Project Managers: Job Characteristics and Related Differences in Core Competency

There are currently extensive discussions on the remarkable development of the convention industry and the impact on local economies made by convention visitors, but there is limited research on the human resources expertise which is crucial for sustainable and qualitative development in the field of convention. This study aims to examine differences in core competencies based on the type of job characteristics model of convention project managers. Based on the existing literature, quantitative and qualitative mixed-methods design was used. 12 semi-structured interviews were conducted with professionals to define measurements, especially core competencies. Job characteristics and core competencies were identified with a survey of 392 convention PM. By using a cluster analysis, it investigated the differences in perception of competencies according to the job characteristics model. As a result of the analysis, five job characteristics were verified, and core competencies that were not organized were classified. In addition, it was confirmed through the analysis that there is a difference in perception of core competencies according to job characteristics. Based on the results, this study stresses the importance of the qualitative and sustainable development of the convention industry. Theoretical and practical implications were provided to enhance core competencies according to job characteristics for sustainable growth of convention project managers.

When Science Fiction Meets Reality

Eighty years after the first science fiction convention, geek culture has gone mainstream and facilitated exponential growth in the fandom convention industry. With fandom conventions facing increasing competition and changing demographics, standing out in the crowded convention space is essential. Dragon Con founded in 1987 created the idea of the multi-genre convention that has something for everyone. Since its inception, Dragon Con has changed to fit fans' evolving tastes and formed strategic relationships with key partners. With growth comes issues related to registration, wait lines, harassment and security which need to be addressed while trying to take into account the younger and more diverse fandoms.