Unless you have been living in a cave or have been extremely lucky, the recent world wide economic downturn has impacted you in some way. We only have to read the newspaper, turn on the television, and closer to home, look at ourselves or someone close to us to see the impact. I only need to look at my investments in the stock market, and my business is feeling the pinch too. The consensus among my peers is that individuals and organizations are being very cautious and thinking twice before spending money on things that could be seen as luxuries as opposed to necessities. This includes on conventions, events, and speakers.
Consider the following 5 points as you assess something as an investment or a cost.