Ed Snowling , joint managing director of Production Bureau , agrees : “ Feasibility , timeline and budget of event tech must be
Beckie Towle
communicated to clients clearly and succinctly in an often time-poor world . The impact of an unclear or changing brief can be significant , too . In a world of rising costs and inflation , delivering a solution which not only meets but surpasses the expectations of our clients remains a challenge .”
Broadband is an issue , too . Towle explains : “ The internet speed to allow real-time communication between a live and virtual audience without latency is paramount now . Venues may provide a dedicated internet for an event , but it isn ’ t enough . We then need to bring in hubs to provide the speeds we need for the event to run smoothly .”
UX and UI When it comes to event platforms , the UX ( user experience ) and UI ( user interface ) are key . Snowling points out : “ Providing a unique experience is key – with a Zoom and Teams saturated world , clients continue to demand an experience that is different from the day-to-day .”
Metrics and proving ROI are vital , too . Snowling adds : “ In an increasingly budget-conscious marketplace , we must demonstrate ROI . This can only be achieved if we have the right event tech providing quality metrics that tell a story and deliver a return on objectives . For 2023 , we have a metrics project planned as we recognise the demands for more in-depth analysis of exhibition activity and interaction .”
Many venues and agencies are committed to continual research and investment in event tech , and it is being planned and budgeted for in 2023 and beyond . Davies says : “ We continually add and upgrade the tech we have . We also offer training on new tech and how clients can use it to ensure we are supporting them as much as possible .”
As businesses make plans around event tech , Chris Smart , chief director of Event Exchange , urges the industry to come together . He advises that it may be helpful for venues to “ engage more with focus groups that consist of event agencies and AV companies to find cost-effective and efficient solutions to maximise the potential of their spaces .” To navigate the next phase of event tech , Juliet Price , development consultant of beam , says : “ It is important for the industry to make the most of the opportunities provided through use of leading technologies to ensure the initial investment made has a post-event value , but also a legacy that supports longer-term engagement of a community .”
The key to future success is for every section of the business events , accommodation , and meetings industry to come together – to connect , communicate and collaborate – to ensure we are ready for how events and tech will evolve in 2023 and beyond . CN www . conference-news . co . uk