Exhibition World Issue 4 | Page 41

Event tech

The tech of Tomorrow

UK-based BCD Meetings & Events ’ global brand experience agency , The Collective , has released a report examining the future of event tech
itled Tomorrow ’ s

T

Perspective on Event Tech , the report from The Collective has been released to coincide with the two-year anniversary of the agency . The report features insights from experts within The Collective , NORAM , and across the UK ’ s events industry .
The report additionally rounds up common industry-wide tech trends and suggestions for event organisers based on The Collective ’ s experience .
A brief look The report outlines several recommendations that are goalorientated , such as :
Providing an immersive experience
• Augmented Reality ( AR ) – As opposed to a ‘ traditional ’ stand , use AR podiums that delegates can scan on their mobile devices to bring a product or brand story to life .
• 3D surround sound - For maximum effect , the audio needs to be designed to fit the event ’ s specific layout . But clever use of it can transform the environment .
• Scent your event – The Collective explains that , when filming content , they pair familiar sights with a scented spray of air from the stage that immerses the audience .
Increasing audience engagement
• Interactive Avatars – Making content dynamic and interactable has a direct effect on an event ’ s visualisation for delegates . The report ’ s examples include a logo design that moves and shimmers on-screen based on data pulled from audience reactions , and an interactive art piece turned into an NFT gift for delegates post-show .
• Focus – A trend found at shows such as IMEX , which has implemented its Be Well Lounge , The Collective suggests organisers include a quiet ( perhaps soundproofed ) room away from the show floor .
• Gamification – Delegates generally have their mobiles to hand , and so can potentially be encouraged to engage with events through app-based icebreakers or networking games – especially if prizes are involved !
• Personalisation – The Collective ’ s report suggests the use of QR tech to provide personalised experiences for delegates such as welcome messages , drink orders , and photo backdrops .
l The full report with all of its recommendations can be found at info . bcdme . com / tomorrowsperspective-onevent-technology
Tomorrow ’ s world Finally , the report predicts the future of event tech . A particular spotlight is shone on the continuation of the latest hot topic , AI , as organisers , marketers , and suppliers alike utilise new tech to create copy , improve personalisation , and automate processes . But , two other advancing trends are noted :
Sustainable start-ups
• There ’ s an incoming tidal wave of tech startups with a hyperfocus on sustainable event solutions for planners .
• More companies will rise that have a mission centred around improving sustainable practices .
• The format of sustainability data as we currently know it will become outdated , and fluidity between initiatives will become more accessible .
Techy venues
• Tech-orientated venues will come out on top , with traditional conference spaces falling by the wayside .
• Venues will begin to focus on the experiential .
• Large events will look for venues that have adapted to include creative , tech-driven immersive experiences .
www . exhibitionworld . co . uk Issue 4 2023 41