Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do I have to register for the conference to participate as a speaker? 
A: Yes. All speakers must be registered for the conference. Click here to read the speaker registration policy and learn about registration options. 

Q: I would like to submit a research paper, where should I do that?
A: We don't have a specific area to submit research papers. Please consider using your paper as a catalyst for a session or poster presentation.

Q:I don't know who my speakers will be yet. What should I enter in the proposal form?  
A: You don't have to have all of your speakers confirmed yet. Entering speaker names in the proposal form gives reviewers a good idea of the positions/locations of speakers you are planning to invite. You will need to officially invite any speakers from an accepted proposal later in the process (APA will provide information on how to do this as needed). Proposers are strongly encouraged to list proposed speakers.

Q: Is every session required to have at least one APA member as a speaker?
A: Yes.

Q: I don't want to prepare a session alone. What are my options?
Please check our speaker database, www.planning.org/speakers, to search for a speaker who specializes in your topic. 

Q: Does my session have to fit in a track? 
A: No. Sessions are accepted on the full spectrum of planning topics. Select a track designation ONLY if your session proposal fits well in the track. There is no competitive advantage to selecting a track designation.

New! Speaker Policy

Speakers are allowed to speak in no more than two sessions. A session is a general session, a division session, a local host committee session, or a poster session. A speaker may also participate in one additional technology showcase or facilitated discussion. GIS workshop speakers and Mobile Workshop speakers are exempt from this policy. Any deviation from this policy is at the sole discretion of the Director of Education.

View My Proposals

If you have already started a session proposal, click here to continue where you left off.

Questions?

APA will contact you on the status of your proposal beginning in mid–November.

If you have questions about submitting a session proposal, contact speakerinfo@planning.org.

If you have difficulty with your online submission, contact websitefeedback@planning.org.