We live in an age of information. Some would suggest that we suffer from information overload due to the modern technology that delivers large volumes of information to us on request. Others argue that information is at the heart of our innovatory progress. Whatever the rights and wrongs of the evolving information debate, it can be hard to separate useful from useless information. Furthermore, information may be accessible through the latest technology, but certain types of information are most easily exchanged via face-to-face social interaction.

Knowledge which is not codified and certain types of expertise are best conveyed through traditional meetings. Conventional meetings facilitate the development of trust in ways which even video conferencing may not. Video conferencing can limit carbon footprints, but some individuals may be uncomfortable with it if sensitive information is being imparted.

Swapping confidential information or expertise that has not been systematically broken down into data which is easy to use cannot be done anywhere. Some environments are inappropriate and do not enable this kind of information exchange. For example, buildings which are not looked after properly or rooms which are not clean do not foster the gradual development of trust between people from different firms.

Modern meeting rooms which are furnished suitably and come with up-to-date equipment can be an ideal setting for the exchange of many types of information. Mutual benefits can be obtained if firms collaborate together effectively. Effective collaboration will not even commence if the meeting rooms are not conducive to this type of activity.