Moving conferences online: lessons learned from an international virtual meeting.

We consider the opportunities and challenges associated with organizing a conference online, using a case study of a medium-sized (approx. 400 participants) international conference held virtually in August 2020. In addition, we present quantifiable evidence of the participants' experience using the results from an online post-conference questionnaire. Although the virtual meeting was not able to replicate the in-person experience in some aspects (e.g. less engagement between participants) the overwhelming majority of respondents found the meeting an enjoyable experience and would join similar events again. Notably, there was a strong desire for future in-person meetings to have at least some online component. Online attendance by lower-income researchers was higher compared with a past, similar-themed in-person meeting held in a high-income nation, but comparable to one held in an upper-middle-income nation. This indicates that online conferences are not a panacea for diversity and inclusivity, and that holding in-person meetings in developing economies can be at least as effective. Given that it is now relatively easy to stream contents of meetings online using low-cost methods, there are clear benefits in making all presented content accessible online, as well as organizing online networking events for those unable to attend in person.

Emergent virtual networks amid emergency: insights from a case study

In the aftermath of catastrophic events, problems always arise in the supply of goods in places affected by the emergency. During the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic, the shortage of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) created problems, especially in the healthcare sector, contributing to the uncontrolled spread of the virus. This paper presents a case in which the emergence of a voluntary local production and distribution network based on 3D printing technology played an important role in compensating for the lack of PPE. From the case analysed, we compare the core characteristics of the emergent virtual networks against the features of well-established supply chains models to systematize relevant differences and common traits. This research contributes to defining, developing, and scoping the concept of emergent supply chains and illustrates how such networks can constitute an essential first response to the lack of materials and goods in emergency contexts.