April 4, 2023
No corner of contemporary business is immune from the influence that evolving technology has on business. That certainly includes corporate event planning. In the post, we will be looking at the current role of technology in modern corporate event planning and what that could mean for the future.
With that, let’s begin.
Here’s a brief overview of some of the latest tech tools and software used in event planning.
Different event management software offer all-in-one software suites that helps with various aspects of event planning, such as attendee management, registration, ticketing, marketing, and analytics.
With the rise of remote work and travel restrictions, virtual and hybrid event platforms have become essential for hosting events. Platforms like Zoom, Hopin, and GoToWebinar allow event organizers to create virtual environments and interact with attendees remotely.
Mobile apps like Bizzabo, Whova, and Attendify provide an easy way to manage events on-the-go. These apps can help with tasks like creating schedules, sending push notifications, and tracking attendee engagement.
AR and VR technologies are becoming more common in event planning. They allow attendees to experience immersive and interactive environments, such as product demonstrations, simulations, and games.
Social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn are crucial for promoting events and engaging with attendees. Other digital marketing tools like email marketing software, content management systems (CMS), and search engine optimization (SEO) tools can help with outreach and lead generation.
These are just a few examples of the latest tech tools and software used in event planning. As technology continues to evolve, new tools and platforms will continue to emerge and become essential for successful event planning.
Now that we’ve taken a look at some of the technology influencing affecting modern corporate even planning, let’s look at how that technology is influencing the way corporate events are organized and managed.
With the rise of remote work and travel restrictions, virtual and hybrid events have become more common. Technology allows attendees to participate in events from anywhere in the world, reducing the cost and logistical challenges associated with physical events.
Technology has made it easier to collect and analyze data about event attendees, such as demographics, behavior, and preferences. This data can be used to improve future events, personalize marketing messages, and measure event ROI.
Technology has made it easier to engage with attendees before, during, and after events. Platforms like social media, event apps, and email marketing software can be used to create interactive and personalized experiences, such as surveys, live polls, and Q&A sessions.
Event management software can automate many tasks associated with event planning, such as ticketing, registration, marketing, and analytics. This frees up time for event organizers to focus on more strategic tasks and reduces the risk of errors or oversights.
Technology has made it easier to personalize event experiences based on attendee preferences, behavior, and data. For example, event organizers can use personalized marketing messages, customized schedules, and targeted recommendations to create a more tailored experience for each attendee.
The evolution of technology mainly has two goals for the workplace: improve efficiency and save money. In that respected, here are ways some modern technologies are doing just that.
Automation tools, such as event management software (EMS), can help reduce the need for manual labor, such as data entry, registration management, and attendee tracking, thereby saving labor costs.
Technology tools, such as resource scheduling software, can help event planners better manage resources such as equipment, venues, and staff, improving efficiency and saving on costs.
By using virtual and hybrid events, corporate event planners can eliminate many expenses associated with traditional physical events, such as venue rentals, catering, and travel expenses.
With the use of digital tools, such as cloud-based collaboration platforms and project management tools, event planners can work together more effectively, allowing for faster decision-making and improved communication, saving time and resources.
With the use of technology, corporate event planners can track and analyze attendee data and event performance, which can be used to make more informed decisions and improve future events, leading to higher returns on investment.
From Google to Cisco, corporate events are being influenced most by companies that specialize in technical innovation. The early adoption of these technologies during the pandemic literally changed the way corporate events were being held.
Google I/O is an annual conference organized by Google that showcases the company’s latest technologies and products. In 2021, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the event was held virtually, utilizing a combination of pre-recorded and live content. Google leveraged their own technology platforms, such as YouTube and Google Meet, to deliver a seamless experience to attendees.
Dreamforce is an annual conference hosted by Salesforce, focused on innovation, education, and networking in the tech industry. The 2020 event was held virtually because of the pandemic, utilizing Salesforce’s own platform, Salesforce+, to deliver interactive sessions, keynotes, and product demos to attendees worldwide.
Adobe MAX is an annual conference hosted by Adobe, focused on creativity, innovation, and technology in the design industry. In 2020, due to the pandemic, the event was held virtually, utilizing Adobe’s own technology platforms, such as Adobe Creative Cloud and Adobe Experience Cloud, to deliver a personalized and interactive experience to attendees.
Cisco Live is an annual conference hosted by Cisco, focused on technology and innovation in the IT industry. The 2021 event was held virtually, utilizing Cisco’s own Webex platform to deliver live and on-demand content, including keynotes, technical sessions, and product demos.
If you are looking to incorporate new technology into your corporate event planning, you may be at a bit of a loss as where to start. So, let’s look at some best practice to help give you some ideas.
By following these best practices, event planners can effectively incorporate technology into their corporate event planning process, enhancing attendee experience and overall event success.
Even good planning can face some unexpected challenges. Here are some of the more common challenges of implementing technology in corporate event planning and how to overcome them.
One of the main challenges of implementing technology in corporate event planning is technical difficulties. This can include issues with hardware, software, internet connectivity, and more. To overcome this challenge, it’s important to test all technology systems in advance and have backup plans in place in case of technical issues.
Technology can be expensive, and it’s important to carefully evaluate the costs associated with implementing technology tools and systems in your event planning process. To overcome this challenge, consider selecting technology tools that are aligned with your goals and budget, and negotiate with vendors for better pricing.
Another challenge is the lack of technical expertise among event planners and staff. To overcome this challenge, provide adequate training to all team members involved in the event planning and execution process and ensure that they have access to technical support if needed.
As technology is increasingly used in corporate event planning, cybersecurity has become a growing concern. To overcome this challenge, implement appropriate cybersecurity measures, such as encryption, firewalls, and user authentication, and ensure that all technology tools and systems are up-to-date with the latest security patches.
Integrating multiple technology tools and systems can lead to compatibility issues, which can cause delays and disrupt the event planning process. To overcome this challenge, carefully evaluate the compatibility of all technology tools and systems before implementation and consider using tools from the same vendor or platform to minimize compatibility issues.
By addressing these challenges proactively, event planners can successfully implement technology tools and systems in their corporate event planning process, enhancing attendee experience and overall event success.
Social media and digital marketing play a crucial role in promoting corporate events by allowing event planners to reach a wider audience and engage with attendees before, during, and after the event. Here are some ways social media and digital marketing can be used to promote corporate events:
Overall, social media and digital marketing can be powerful tools in promoting corporate events and engaging with attendees, helping event planners reach a wider audience and increase event success.
The possibilities of technology in corporate event planning, including virtual and hybrid events, are vast and ever-evolving. Here are some future possibilities.
With advancements in technology, it is possible to create immersive, 3D virtual event environments that simulate the look and feel of physical events, allowing attendees to interact with each other and event content in a more engaging and meaningful way.
Event assistants powered by artificial intelligence can help attendees navigate events, answer questions, and provide personalized recommendations based on attendee preferences.
Gamification can be used to increase attendee engagement and participation in events by turning activities into games, offering rewards, and providing social recognition.
AR and VR can be integrated into virtual and hybrid events, providing attendees with immersive experiences and a sense of presence, even when attending remotely.
Technology can be used to provide personalized experiences for attendees, including customized event agendas, personalized content recommendations, and targeted advertising based on attendee preferences.
With the rise of hybrid events, there is a need for platforms that seamlessly integrate in-person and virtual event experiences, allowing attendees to engage with event content and each other in a unified way.
The future of technology in corporate event planning is exciting and holds immense potential for creating more engaging, meaningful, and successful events. By embracing these possibilities, event planners can deliver exceptional experiences for their clients and attendees.
If you are planning an event and considering an affordable event venue for your next event, please consider the Commonwealth Commerce Center in Jackson, MI. Call us at (517) 784-0059 or contact us to get started today!