Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) Practice Exam

Why should center aisles be avoided in seating arrangements whenever possible?

1. They block access to exits

2. They hinder viewing for the audience

3. They create distraction

4. They take up too much space

The correct answer is: They hinder viewing for the audience

Center aisles in seating arrangements can disrupt the line of sight for attendees, particularly in larger venues. When an audience is seated in a theater-style setup, for example, the presence of a center aisle can obstruct views of the stage or presentation area. This is especially problematic in settings where visual presentations or performances are central to the event. If the center aisle is too wide or placed in an inconvenient position, it can further limit the audience’s ability to see the speaker or performance area, as individuals in the front rows may block the sightlines for those seated further back. Therefore, avoiding center aisles can promote a more cohesive viewing experience, ensuring that all attendees have a clear line of sight to the focal point of the event. The other options, while they might contain elements of truth in specific contexts, do not address the primary concern of audience viewing in a seating arrangement.