As we enter a new world of events, it’s safe to say that hybrid events are here for the long run and after a couple of unsettling years due to the pandemic, audience expectations are higher than ever. We have all seen the full potential of virtual events and their unique ability to engage global audiences. As we start to see pandemic restrictions lift, there is an increasing demand for events to maintain the benefits of both in-person and…
News & Articles - technology

Splash Report: Virtual, Hybrid Events to Stay
A new research report by Splash, an event marketing technology company, reveals how event professionals, event attendees, and companies are adapting to disruptions caused by the ongoing pandemic, navigating new challenges, and preparing for a changed meetings and events industry in 2022. Based on a survey of 253 event professionals and 3,133 event attendees in the U.S., the Splash 2022 Outlook Report explores evolving trends in event strategies, event technology, budgets, and attendee attitudes. It also reveals changes in the…

How to Sell Hybrid Events to Sponsors
With the easing of lockdown restrictions and reopening of borders worldwide, hybrid events are expected to return in a big way. In fact, a new research study revealed 58 per cent of organizers are running hybrid events in 2021, and another 17 per cent have already committed to do so in 2022. That same study showed organizers are feeling confident about the return of in-person events, with 71 per cent saying their attendees expressed readiness in meeting face-to-face this year.…

Cvent Signs Multi-Year Agreement with MPI
Cvent has extended its partnership with the largest global meeting and event industry association, Meeting Professionals International (MPI), through to 2024. “MPI has remained steadfast in its commitment to creating a community that advances the industry and the careers of the people in it,” says Cvent CEO and founder, Reggie Aggarwal. “After what’s been a difficult last 18 months for meeting and event professionals, it’s more important than ever to continue this mission. We’re proud to support MPI and their…

How to Leverage Technology to Simplify your Hybrid Event Production
A recently published study by EventMB found an overwhelming majority of event organizers (81 per cent) believe they have to design and execute separate, dedicated experiences for in-person and remote audiences when hosting a hybrid event. Fortunately, with the right production technology and expertise, you don’t have to plan two separate events when going hybrid. Here’s how. Focus on Content Hybrid formats allow you to produce one event with two outputs. Take Apple’s annual Worldwide Developers Conference. The five-day event…

Major Trade Show Requires Proof of Vaccination to Attend
The Consumer Technology Association (CTA) has announced proof of vaccination is required for in-person attendees of CES 2022. “Based on today’s science, we understand vaccines offer us the best hope for stopping the spread of COVID-19,” says CTA president and CEO, Gary Shapiro. “We all play a part in ending the pandemic through encouraging vaccinations and implementing the right safety protocols.” CTA is also assessing the acceptance of proof of a positive antibody test as an alternative requirement but no decision has been made…

How to Choose the Right Venue for your Hybrid Event
2020 saw many events turn virtual due to the pandemic. This year, with the vaccination rollout now in full swing, hybrid events are slated to become the most popular event type. Much like in-person events, the venue can make or break a hybrid event’s success. For face-to-face events, the right spot will depend on the event’s size, duration and audience. Other considerations include budget, catering, parking, accommodation and venue availability. These factors are also important when planning a hybrid event…

Why you Should Avoid Conference Call Apps for Virtual Events
Video conference call fatigue is real. Today’s virtual attendees are tired of the Brady Bunch squares they interact with daily and are looking for high-quality and to be intrigued when they attend virtual events or trade shows. Few people look at a video conference call and say, “Wow, this is captivating just like broadcast events.” These platforms may be a great tool for peer discussions, family functions or the classroom, but not for a professional presentation of topical information with testing,…

Amp Up your Next Virtual Event by Targeting this Sense
With events primarily taking place from the comfort of people’s homes, the power of our five senses has shifted. It used to be an event producer’s passion to ignite all the senses in calculated ways, at specific times, to entice memory or create action. While we’ll get back to a new version of that eventually, for now we have the digital realm from which to work to deliver content. Because of this, the sense of hearing is among the most engaged…

Hilton Introduces Hybrid Solutions for Meetings and Events
Hilton has introduced a set of hybrid solutions to address the dramatic shift away from in-person meetings and events during the pandemic. The new offerings, which will continue to evolve alongside customer needs, direct event planners to Hilton’s hybrid-ready hotels while also providing them with additional resources, including an expanded ‘playbook’ with in-depth information on planning and executing small hybrid events and flexible customer offers for a more seamless contract experience. “Hilton has remained a leader in the meetings and…