Why Choose an Alternative Event Format?
It’s inevitable that the worldwide Covid-19 outbreak will result in enormous changes to the way people perceive and deliver events in the future. So perhaps the question should not be why, but when to choose an alternative event format.
Effective communication is the process of exchanging ideas, thoughts, knowledge and information and is often more than just words.
Luckily, event technology has made communication more convenient by creating more ways to communicate, gather valuable date and generate ROI – it continues to provide new opportunities year on year.
Right now, it’s a difficult time for those planning or managing any event or communication campaign. Covid-19 has made postponing or cancelling live events, conferences, award ceremonies, trade shows and any event gathering a must.
So, what are your options?
Switch to a virtual event and take your event online.
The value of face-to-face communication will never disappear, but even before the Covid-19 outbreak, Cisco predicted 82% of all internet traffic by 2022 will be consuming videos.
We believe virtual or online elements are a vital part of any event and need to be integrated into your meetings and events programme. We can provide each and every element of this. The time is now.
What is a virtual event?
Virtual events are based upon content, engagement and data that offer multi-session online events and often feature webinars and webcasts.
Whilst there won’t be pastries and coffee or a goody-bag, many of the same event elements still apply and should be considered as you would for a face-to-face event.
Face-to-face events can draw in attendees with a unique destination, networking opportunities, entertainment and often money-can’t-buy experiences – virtual events must rely on content.
Part of feeling like you’re at an event is having a seamless audio and visual experience. Video production quality and connectivity will be important, as will the site that hosts the agenda and your content.
What are the key elements within a virtual event?
- Event website
- Event registration
- Presentation content
- Quality live audio and video
- Q&A
- Live polling
- Pre-recorded content
- Interactive video conferencing
- Feedback surveys
- Post-event video edits
What are the benefits of a Virtual Event?
Repurpose Your Content
One of the biggest benefits that virtual events offer is the opportunity to easily repurpose content. Each session is recorded and streamed to virtual attendees – these sessions can then be used as marketing materials and lead magnets post event.
Global Reach
Your event can be experienced by delegates all over the world. If you want to expand the reach of your event beyond a specific region, area or country, then going virtual makes complete sense.
Cost and Sustainability
Venue costs, delegate travel, accommodation, marketing collateral can run into thousands of pounds of expense. Going paper-free, reducing carbon footprint and avoiding waste tick all the boxes for sustainability in events.
Data
You’ll be able to track who is watching what when everyone is joining you online – this is harder to prove at a face-to-face event. This can help you build future content as you gather data on what engaged your attendees and more importantly – what didn’t!
Sponsorship
Another benefit to more attendee data at your fingertips is securing the best event sponsors. The sponsor value of an event is in the data.
