For years, event planning was seen as a field driven primarily by human creativity and logistical prowess. While these elements remain crucial, there’s a new player in town that’s changing the game: technology. But this isn’t just any change; it’s a seismic shift that has redefined what’s possible in our field.
Remember the days when technology in event planning was more of a ‘nice-to-have’ than a necessity? Well, times have certainly changed. Event professionals have long been advocating the benefits of tech, but it’s only recently that its importance has been fully recognized.
The catalyst for this shift? The COVID-19 pandemic. It propelled us into a new era where virtual and hybrid events became the norm, heavily reliant on technology for their success. As event planners, we were thrust into this digital era, and it didn’t take long for us to realize the immense value of event tech.
The Millennial Influence
Let’s put things into perspective. A whopping 73% of millennials, who are now in key decision-making roles, view technology as a fundamental part of their lives, not just a luxury. This mindset shift is crucial in the context of planning corporate events and conferences.
The perks of integrating technology into events are multifaceted. It streamlines the entire event management process, saves precious time, boosts engagement levels, and, ultimately, makes event marketing more effective and profitable.
One of the standout contributions of event tech is its ability to provide comprehensive analytics and data. Gone are the days of relying solely on pre- and post-event surveys. Now, modern event apps and platforms offer a treasure trove of data, giving us insights into customer behaviour, lead generation, profits, and more. This means we can make well-informed decisions and accurately measure our event’s success.
Revolutionizing Communication
Communication has also been revolutionized. Event apps enable attendees to effortlessly connect before, during, and after events, opening up incredible networking opportunities. Plus, managing schedule changes and addressing attendee queries is now a breeze, thanks to chatbots and similar tools.
Sustainability and Security
As event planners, we’re also increasingly conscious of our environmental impact. Here, technology is a game-changer. It aids in reducing the carbon footprint and waste associated with in-person events, allowing for more sustainable practices like going paperless.
Safety and security have never been more important, especially in light of the pandemic. Event technology has risen to the occasion with features like RFID wristbands and facial recognition, enhancing security and making events safer for everyone involved.
Boosting Audience Engagement
Engaging audiences, particularly in hybrid and virtual settings, is a challenge we’re all too familiar with. Thankfully, event tech offers a variety of tools – from gamification to VR and AR – to captivate and immerse attendees in the experience.
Event platforms have evolved beyond mere event management tools; they’re now community platforms that offer year-round engagement. This continuous interaction, even between events, is invaluable for both attendees and sponsors.
And let’s not forget the practical side of things. Event technology significantly reduces the workload on event professionals, streamlining processes like registration and catering. According to a Bizzabo study, this can save hundreds of hours annually.
Conclusion: The Indispensable Role of Event Technology
In conclusion, event technology has become an indispensable element in the realm of event planning. Its impact spans various facets of the industry, from operational efficiency and data analytics to enhancing attendee experience and promoting sustainability. This digital revolution in event planning is not just a passing phase but a fundamental shift that has redefined the industry’s landscape, making technology an essential component for success in this field.