Story of Site Global
www.siteglobal.com

Site began as an idea; a forum launched in 1973 when 11 incentive travel colleagues decided to create the first international nonprofit association dedicated to the pursuit of excellence in incentives. Based on their vision, that idea has flourished through the past 35 years. Site has grown from a handful of people to more than 2,200 individuals representing all facets of the incentive industry and 87 countries around the globe.
Site has always been a forward-looking organization that seeks new opportunities and embraces change. The charisma and thought-leadership of its members have taken the incentives industry to a new level. Today, more than ever before, this industry is essential to companies’ ability to meet and exceed business objectives.
It’s been an amazing journey — and one that has never strayed from its guiding principles: uncompromising ethics, respect for all cultures, and unleashing human potential through extraordinary motivational events. Since its first educational program in 1975, Site has focused on education and networking as two key components of advancing members’ innovation and creativity, which, in turn, spur the advancement of the entire industry.
As we again prepare to step forward with the new face of Site, let us pause to reflect on the past 35 years that have honed our vision, guided our sensibilities and laid the foundation upon which we will build the future of Site.

Global Connections
As early as 1977, Site members were stretched across four continents. Bridging the experience and knowledge these members had to share was — and continues to be — among the most meaningful benefits of involvement with Site. The Society has since formed 37 chapters in six continents so members can develop business opportunities, address common issues on a regional level and have full access to Site’s worldwide perspective and knowledge base.
Site also has expanded its educational events and now hosts and participates in several top industry functions throughout the year. From South Africa to Reykjavik, Aruba to Kuala Lumpur and myriad places in between, these events are a catalyst for ongoing professional growth. SITE and its members have been industry pioneers for decades and continue to be worldwide trendsetters.
In the coming years, Site is dedicated to enhancing its regional support through educational and networking opportunities as well as research specific to trends in various parts of the world.
Motivational ExperiencesSite members have always understood the power of inspiring people through motivational experiences and in 1980 established the Incentive Travel Awards Competition, called the Crystal Awards beginning in 1987. The program honors especially outstanding efforts, ingenuity and ultimate results. To date, more than 135 organizations have received accolades for developing and delivering truly inspiring incentive programs.
By sharing these case studies with Society members, media representatives and business leaders, Site helps to explain the power of extraordinary events and motivational experiences in unleashing the human potential that, in turn, makes an enormous impact on companies’ ability to achieve, and often surpass, business goals. These success are important in any economic climate; but as we face challenges in the months — and possibly years — ahead, they are absolutely essential.

Business Results
When we discuss business results, we must consider two distinct points: career growth for members, and desired end-results for corporate clients. Through the years, Site has enhanced in-person opportunities for members to build alliances, generate clients and tap into a global network of peers. From the first Site Executive Conference in 1975 to the Site Academy for Young Leaders, launched in 2006, the Society has continuously refined education and knowledge sharing to ensure ongoing value to Site members. In recent years, additional enhancements such as electronic and Web-based communications have further augmented members’ ability to interact with colleagues locally and globally.
Site also has been a proponent of and instrument in collecting information to document, gauge and educate others about the tangible affect motivational experiences have on achieving business objectives related to corporate objectives such as revenue, retention, stability and leadership development. In 2009 and beyond, expect to see additional studies designed to help Site members generate business results for their clients — and themselves.

Site Chapter Finland
The Society of Incentive & Travel Executives approved Finland Chapter in 2005. Site Chapter Finland has approx. 50 members representing various fields of incentive travel.  In 2006 Site Chapter Finland was the 4th biggest chapter of SITE worlwide. At the Site International Conferfence in Barcelona, December 2006, Finland was awarded with the recognition of CHAPTER OF THE YEAR.
Site membership is a guarantee of delivering high standard, top quality, innovative ideas and services in the ever growing meetings, incentive, conference and event sector in Finland. Site Chapter Finland organizes regional seminars to ensure the constant development of its members. The annual main seminar FORUM FINNCENTIVE (nowadays SITE Nordic Symposium) was first organized in 1991 by IAF, the predecessor Site Chapter Finland.