Panels usually include a moderator who guides the discussion and sometimes elicits audience questions, with the goal of being informative and entertaining.
[1][2] Film panels at fan conventions have been credited with boosting box office returns by generating advance buzz.
[4] Quiz shows featuring this format, such as QI and Never Mind the Buzzcocks, are called panel games.
[6] Panels and the early screenings at conventions have been credited as increasing the popularity of blockbuster films in recent years.
Organisations responding included The Financial Times, whose board decided in August 2017 to end men-only conference panels, and encouraged its journalists not to participate in these elsewhere.