AMS Meetings Short Course Analysis of Costs and Expenses

Short Course Financial Analysis

Attached is an income/expense summary for each of the six short courses offered at the 1999 AMS Annual Meeting. The AMS Council has requested that over time, short courses as a group break even. As can be seen in this year's summary, each short course has unique characteristics which govern the necessary expenses. In addition, since the registration fees are set well in advance of participant registration, it is difficult to predict each course's popularity, and thus its corresponding revenue.

Short Course Registration Rates: History and Explanation

Table A shows the history of short course registration rates. When AMS began to ramp-up short course activity in 1995, registration rates were set to ensure costs were covered, though at the time, the cost structure was not fully understood.

During the past few years, as cost data have been collected, rates were lowered in steps to reflect the AMS Council’s goal of having short courses break even on average over an extended period of time. For 1999, the fees were raised slightly anticipating lower attendance and increased costs. However, a more detailed analysis shows that the courses are still generating a small income, so it is proposed that fees be lowered again for 2000.

Over time, the rate structure has been adjusted to provide the following features:

The non-member surcharge is now the same amount as the annual membership fee for the Society. It is hoped this will encourage individuals to join as members.
The late/on-site surcharge has been increased, to encourage individuals to register early. Early registrations allow staff to better plan facilities, materials, and support, which helps control costs.
At the suggestion of one of our course organizers, a 50% discount for students was established, with the hope of attracting more students to AMS short courses.

Table A

Short Course Registration Rates
	Member Pre-reg	Non-member Surcharge	Late/On-site surchage	Student Discount

1995	$225	$40	$25
1996	$225	$25	$40
1997	$195	$30	$50
1998	$175	$30	$50	50%
1999	$190	$30	$50	50%

Last Updated on 3/30/99
By Corinne Kazarosian