In today's world, technology has become an integral part of human existence, and events are no exception. From using wired keypads and infrared voting devices in medical conferences, the event planning industry has evolved significantly. 

Whether it's virtual reality, augmented reality, or interactive event apps, technology plays a crucial role in enhancing attendee engagement and overall event success. As we look ahead to 2024, it's important for event planners to stay informed about the latest event technology trends and consider how they can incorporate these innovations into their future event strategies.

What is Event Technology?

Event technology refers to the use of various digital tools and platforms to enhance the overall experience and organization of events. This can include anything from event management software and mobile event apps to virtual reality experiences and live streaming technology. 

Why Should Event Organizers Care About Event Technology Trends?

Event organizers should care about event technology trends because of the significant investments and valuations in the event tech space. These trends reflect the evolving needs of event planners, as they look for innovative ways to engage attendees, streamline event logistics, and gather valuable data.

The use of event technology can dramatically impact an event's success by improving attendee engagement, streamlining event logistics, and providing valuable data and analytics for event organizers. In the post-pandemic events industry, there is a heightened demand for technology that supports hybrid and virtual events, as well as health and safety protocols. By staying abreast of event technology trends, organizers can adapt to the changing landscape and meet the demands of modern events, ultimately leading to more successful and impactful experiences for attendees.

Event Technology Trends of 2024

1. Artificial Intelligence (AI)

AI has the potential to revolutionize event planning in various key areas such as Data Analysis and Prediction, Personalized Marketing, Event monitoring and security, virtual assistants and chatbots, and automation of routine tasks.

Benefits of AI for Events

AI offers numerous benefits for events, especially when it comes to content creation, attendee support, and guest engagement.

  • AI writing assistant tools such as ChatGPT can streamline event content creation, providing suggestions and improvements for event materials.
  • Additionally, AI-powered chat support can offer 24/7 assistance to attendees, answering their questions and providing information at any time. This not only improves attendee satisfaction but also reduces the workload on event staff.
  • AI can analyze large sets of data to predict attendee behavior, preferences, and event outcomes. This allows event planners to make informed decisions and tailor their event planning across various key areas
  • Moreover, AI can aid in engaging guests by structuring customized event agendas, recommendations, and targeted communications to craft immersive event experiences.
  • AI can help create personalized marketing campaigns based on attendee demographics, behavior, and preferences. This can lead to higher engagement and conversion rates for event promotions.

AI-Powered Automation and Personalization.

AI automation streamlines event planning and execution by automating repetitive tasks. For instance, chatbots powered by AI can handle attendee inquiries, provide real-time information, and assist with registrations. Automation in logistics and resource management ensures seamless coordination, reducing manual workload and minimizing errors.Automated writing assistants generate human-like text, aiding in drafting articles, marketing copy, and even event-related content.

In the real world, many event organizers utilize AI to automate event promotion through targeted email campaigns. It analyzes user data to identify potential attendees and sends personalized invitations, increasing event visibility.

Challenges of AI in Events

  • AI in events requires human input to ensure accuracy and effectiveness. While AI chatbots can enhance communication and engagement at events, there is a constant need for review from event organizers to ensure that the information provided is accurate and reflects the tone and objectives of the event.
  • AI in event planning cannot fully understand nuanced human communication and context. AI chatbots may struggle to understand complex queries or may provide irrelevant or inaccurate answers, leading to frustration for attendees. Additionally, the lack of emotional intelligence and empathy in AI chatbots may result in a disconnect with attendees who value a more personal touch in their interactions.
  • Integrating AI into event management systems can be costly. Small and medium-sized event organizers may find it challenging to afford or justify the investment.
  • Event organizers and teams may lack the necessary skills and knowledge to leverage AI effectively. Organizations must invest in training and development to ensure that their teams can fully utilize AI tools, reducing the risk of underutilization or inefficient deployment.

2. Hybrid Events

A hybrid event is a type of event that combines in-person and virtual elements. It offers the flexibility for attendees to participate both in-person and remotely using online platforms.

This can include live streaming of presentations, interactive virtual networking opportunities, and virtual Q&A sessions.

Advantages of Hosting Hybrid Events

  • Hybrid events offer a myriad of advantages by providing equitable experiences to both in-person and virtual attendees. This ensures that all participants, regardless of their location, can access the event's resources and engage in discussions, leading to increased audience reach and engagement. 
  • Furthermore, hosting hybrid events maximizes sponsorship ROI by offering sponsors increased visibility and access to a wider audience. This is crucial for sponsors looking to connect with potential clients and business partners.
  • Hybrid event tech also facilitates monetization by supporting various content formats such as webinars, virtual exhibits, and on-demand sessions. This sustains attendee interest with year-round access to recorded live content, extending the value of the event long after it has concluded.
  • They also offer the benefits of reduced costs for travel and accommodations for remote attendees, as well as the opportunity to gather valuable data and analytics from both in-person and virtual participants

How to Organize a Successful Hybrid Event?

Here are key steps to ensure seamless connectivity and engagement for all participants:

1. Utilize advanced technology: Invest in high-quality audiovisual equipment, reliable internet connectivity, and a user-friendly platform for virtual participation. This will ensure that virtual attendees can fully engage with the event.

2. Offer interactive features: Incorporate live polls, Q&A sessions, and virtual networking opportunities to enhance engagement for both in-person and virtual attendees. This will create a more dynamic and inclusive experience for all participants.

3. Provide equitable access: Ensure that all participants, regardless of their physical presence or location, have equal access to event content and networking opportunities.

4. Communicate clearly: Provide detailed information about the event format, technology requirements, and participation options to all attendees. Clear communication will help manage expectations and ensure that everyone is prepared for a seamless experience.

3. Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) Applications

Virtual Reality (VR) is a technology that allows users to immerse themselves in a completely digital environment. Through the use of a VR headset, users can experience a simulated reality that can be interactive and 3-dimensional. 

Augmented Reality (AR) is a technology that overlays digital information in the real world, enhancing the user's perception of their surroundings. AR applications can be experienced through smartphones, tablets, or AR glasses, allowing users to see virtual elements integrated into their real environment. 

VR and AR in Live Events

VR and AR technologies are rapidly transforming the live events industry, providing attendees with immersive experiences and interactive exhibitions. In live events, VR allows for virtual site inspections, enabling event planners to visualize and plan events in unique ways. AR, on the other hand, enhances live events by overlaying digital information and graphics onto the physical environment, creating a more engaging and interactive experience for attendees.

The implementation of VR and AR in the event industry offers numerous potential benefits, including increased engagement, personalized experiences, and the ability to reach a wider audience. However, challenges such as high implementation costs, technological limitations, and the need for specialized equipment may arise.

VR and AR in Online-Only Events

With the rise of online-only events, Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) have become powerful tools to enhance the virtual experience for remote attendees.

Through VR, remote attendees can explore interactive exhibitions and immersive virtual environments, providing a more engaging and interactive experience. This gives remote attendees a more interactive and engaging experience, immersing them in the event as if they were physically present.

4. Mobile Apps for Events

Mobile apps seamlessly enhance event experiences, offering attendees instant access to schedules, speaker details, and interactive maps. In-app messaging and networking tools facilitate attendee connections, scheduling meetings, and information sharing. For organizers, apps enable real-time communication through push notifications, gather feedback, and collect valuable engagement data. Some apps include ticketing, live polling, and gamification features, boosting attendee participation and interaction.

Benefits of Mobile Apps for Events

Mobile event apps offer a wide array of benefits that can significantly enhance the overall event experience.

  • Personalized event experiences: Through these apps, organizers can tailor the experience to the individual preferences and needs of attendees, offering them personalized schedules, recommended networking connections, and targeted content.
  • Real-Time Engagement: Furthermore, mobile event apps drive engagement by providing real-time event information, schedules, speaker bios, and maps, allowing attendees to stay informed and navigate the event seamlessly. Additionally, these apps offer various ways to interact with fellow attendees through surveys, live polling, and push notifications, creating a sense of community and fostering engagement.
  • Data-Driven Decision-Making: Another significant benefit is the ability to boost data and analytics. By tracking user interactions within the app, organizers gain valuable insights into attendee behavior, preferences, and areas of interest. This data can be utilized to make data-driven decisions, enhance future events, and demonstrate the ROI of the event.

5. Wearable Tech

Wearable tech has been an integral part of the event industry for over a decade, primarily using RFID and barcode technology to track attendees' movements and enable cashless transactions. However, in recent years, wearable tech has undergone a data-driven makeover, revolutionizing the way event organizers collect and analyze attendee data.

Now, wearable tech not only provides a seamless event experience for patrons but also offers event organizers the ability to track attendees' movements, behavior, and preferences.

How Wristbands and Smart Watches Elevate Event Experiences

Personalized Agendas:

Smartwatches can store personalized event agendas. Attendees receive notifications and updates directly on their wearables, ensuring they don't miss out on key sessions or activities. 

Real-Time Updates and Notifications:

Wearables deliver real-time updates and notifications, such as changes in schedule, speaker announcements, or important announcements from event organizers. 

Enhanced Networking Opportunities:

RFID Wristbands and smartwatches can facilitate networking by allowing attendees to exchange contact information through a simple tap or scan. This feature streamlines the networking process, making it more efficient and enhancing opportunities for connections, collaboration, and post-event engagement.

Cashless Transactions:

Many wristbands come equipped with RFID technology, enabling cashless transactions for purchases within the event venue, such as food, merchandise, or additional services. 

Interactive and Immersive Experiences:

Wristbands and smartwatches can be integrated with interactive features, such as augmented reality (AR) experiences or interactive displays within the event venue. 

Facilitated Access Control:

Wristbands with embedded technology, such as RFID or NFC, can serve as access control mechanisms for entry to specific areas or sessions. This streamlined access control process reduces the likelihood of unauthorized entry, enhances security, and contributes to a smoother event flow.

6. Facial Recognition Technology

Facial recognition technology is a biometric software that uses advanced algorithms to identify and authenticate individuals based on their unique facial features. It works by capturing and analyzing patterns of a person's facial features and then comparing them with stored data to verify their identity.

Many smartphone manufacturers have incorporated this technology into their devices as a means of unlocking the phone, authorizing payments, and accessing apps and data. 

Furthermore, facial recognition technology offers an additional layer of security as it is difficult to bypass through unauthorized means.

How to use Facial Recognition in Events

Facial recognition technology can greatly streamline event security and check-in processes, providing a more efficient and secure experience for attendees. By implementing facial recognition, event organizers can easily verify the identity of participants, reducing the risk of unauthorized entry and enhancing overall safety.

To implement facial recognition at events, organizers should choose a reliable and secure facial recognition system and ensure that appropriate measures are taken to protect attendees' privacy. This includes obtaining informed consent from participants and complying with privacy laws and regulations. It is essential to clearly communicate to attendees how their facial data will be used, stored, and protected, and to provide opt-out options for those who may have concerns about this technology.

Challenges of Facial Recognition in Events

Facial recognition technology at events raises several challenges, particularly concerning privacy and compliance with ever-changing laws. The use of this technology could potentially violate attendees' privacy as it involves the collection and processing of personal biometric data without their consent. Furthermore, privacy advocates and regulatory bodies are increasingly scrutinizing the use of facial recognition, creating compliance challenges for event organizers.

7. Eco-Conscious Tech

As the demographic of eco-conscious youth becomes increasingly influential, it is high time for event organizers to embrace eco-conscious technology to meet the expectations of a more environmentally aware consumer base.

Eco-conscious technology, often referred to as "green tech" or "sustainable tech," encompasses a range of innovations designed to minimize environmental impact and promote sustainability. This extends beyond mere energy efficiency and includes considerations for the entire lifecycle of a product, from manufacturing to end-of-life disposal. The goal is to reduce resource consumption, minimize waste, and make technology an ally in the fight against climate change.

Examples of Eco-Conscious Tech

Solar-Powered Events:

Solar-powered events leverage solar energy to meet power requirements, reducing dependence on conventional energy sources. Solar panels and solar-powered infrastructure, such as charging stations and lighting, are strategically deployed to harness clean, renewable energy. This reduces carbon footprint, minimizes reliance on non-renewable energy sources, and promotes the use of sustainable technology in event operations.

Zero-Waste Edible Dinner Plating:

This innovative approach involves creating dinner plates from edible and biodegradable materials, such as edible vegetable-based containers. Attendees can consume the plate along with their food, eliminating the need for traditional disposable plates that contribute to waste. It addresses the issue of single-use plastics and reduces the environmental impact of disposable dinnerware.

Biodegradable Decor:

Event decor items, such as banners, signage, and table centerpieces, are made from biodegradable materials. These materials break down naturally over time, preventing long-lasting environmental harm.

8. Gamification

Gamification can have a significant impact on an event by increasing engagement, motivation, and participation among attendees. By incorporating game-like elements such as points, rewards, and challenges, event organizers can create a more interactive and enjoyable experience for participants.

Gamification can also be used to promote brand activations, and collect valuable data and insights about attendee behavior and preferences. Through leaderboards and feedback mechanisms, event organizers can gain a better understanding of what aspects of the event are most appealing and where there is room for improvement.

Furthermore, by integrating gamification into networking sessions and workshops, attendees are more likely to actively participate and connect with others, leading to more meaningful interactions and knowledge sharing.

Top Event Gamification Ideas

Scavenger Hunt:

Create a scavenger hunt that encourages attendees to explore the event venue and engage with relevant vendors and sponsors.

Interactive Voting:

Use interactive polling or voting systems to encourage attendees to share their opinions on sustainability topics and issues.

Leaderboards:

Implement a leaderboard system that tracks and rewards attendees for participating in games or challenges throughout the event.

Augmented Reality Experience:

Develop AR games that overlay digital elements on the physical event space, encouraging attendees to explore and interact.

Photo and Video Challenges:

Encourage attendees to participate in themed photo or video challenges related to the event. Create a hashtag for easy tracking on social media, and offer rewards for the most creative or widely shared content.

Escape Room Experiences:

Set up a physical or virtual escape room experience within the event venue, requiring teamwork and problem-solving.

Mystery Box Giveaways:

Incorporate mystery boxes containing prizes or incentives that attendees can unlock through specific actions. Distribute digital keys or codes for unlocking the mystery boxes. Display winners on a leaderboard.

AUTHOR

Robert West - Senior Manager Design & Innovation
ID&C | January 2024