technology – Fedra Meetings & Events

Tag: technology

The 3 New Rules of Event Technology

Posted on 16 Gennaio 201718 Luglio 2017 by Fedra

During the first era of event tech innovation – the late 1990s and early 2000s – the events industry saw massive improvements in specialized, computer-based software for event management/planning and hotel/venue management. During this era, we also saw the first online event software applications for things like event registration/ticketing and event marketing.

So what makes this new era in event technology innovation so different? And why should you care?

Here are 5 critical things you should to keep in mind as you evaluate event tech tools.

Simplicity and easy-of-use

Big benefits – Shorter learning curves; faster adaption of technology by all team members
Potential drawbacks – None, really

Now, event pros simply don’t have time to read manuals and spend hours and hours in training sessions to learn how to use software applications. We are used to the ease and simplicity of smartphone apps. We are accustomed to user interfaces that are intuitive and self-explanatory (thanks to Apple). And we want to put new event technologies into practice immediately so we can start seeing the benefits now.

(Almost) everything is online

Big benefits – Automatic software updates; no software installation or maintenance on your computer/server; automated data backups
Potential drawbacks – Limited or no access to data if you aren’t connected to the Internet

With online software you may not be able to access your data if you aren’t connected to the Internet; however, high-speed access is better and more ubiquitous than ever. And, yes, if your data is in the cloud, there is always the possibility of it being compromised by a hacking attack.

But you have the same risk with your data installed on your Internet-connected computer. So all these things pretty much cancel each other out.

Data and software access across all devices

Big benefits – Anywhere, anytime data access; data portability
Potential drawbacks – Screen size limitations on smartphones; limited functionality for certain applications

10 years ago, smart phones were still glamorized cell phones. 5 years ago, smart phones and tablets gave us cool apps and games plus mostly reliable on-the-go Internet. Today, smart phones and tablets give us anytime access to lots of data wherever we are.

Event software companies are taking two paths when it comes to making their applications and data available on tablets and smartphones:

Native app versions of their software for Apple and Android devices; or
Mobile Web browser versions of their software that you can access through the Web browser on your smartphone/tablet.

And both options are viable because of the advances in mobile Web browsers to load and display data.

What trends are you seeing in event technology and event management software? Provide your feedback in the comments below.

How To Use Lighting Creatively

Posted on 31 Ottobre 201618 Luglio 2017 by Fedra

Lighting is an important element to consider when planning special events and ceremonies.

Lighting can be colorful or white, static or dynamic, focused or fill a room. And it can be serve a host of purposes, such as setting the mood and creating a distinct atmosphere, highlighting event features and culinary displays as well as cuing speakers and presentations.

Colorful Uplighting

Uplighting can add depth and visual interest to any meeting space. Consider using colored uplighting that plays into the event’s theme.

Illuminated Bar

Highlight a beverage display, like this full bar and cocktail lineup, by placing it on LED glass. The lighting draws attention to the display and gives it a unique look.

Dynamic Gobo Lighting

Lighting doesn’t have to be static. Using gobos (precut etched patterns made from glass or metal), you can project dynamic lighting onto the walls of the space to add visual excitement and movement to a celebratory or social gathering.

Logo in Lights

Use a gobo to display the company or event logo. Putting it in lights is a dramatic way to keep the brand top-of-mind throughout the event.

Spotlighting

Shift attendees’ focus to speakers or guests of honor with spotlighting. Spotlights also can be used to light stages, runways and aisles.

Increase Your Event Through Gamification

Posted on 10 Ottobre 201618 Luglio 2017 by Fedra

Learn to “gamify” your event in a way that will keep attendees engaged and participating.

The basic idea of gamification is to apply “game mechanics and game design techniques in nongame contexts.” If employed effectively, it can increase engagement and encourage active participation.

Oftentimes, meeting attendees go through the motions of attending an event or a conference—they show up at sessions and attend networking events—but how can you ensure those attendees are actually learning, engaging and networking?

One clever approach? Gamify your event.

Gamification can help increase:

attendance at sessions, breakouts and networking events;
networking success;
social interactions and mentions; and
the fun factor!

Now, here are two steps to help you try it at your next event or meeting.

Step 1: Determine the goal of your meeting, and determine how gamification can help you achieve that objective.

Attendance: If increasing attendance is a goal, consider using a check-in game (digital or otherwise) for attendees. Reward the attendee with the most check-ins.

Networking: Want to ramp up your next networking event? Really get people mingling—and gaming—by rewarding the attendee who collects the most business cards or who scans the most nametag QR codes.

Social: Boost engagement, interactions and mentions on social media by tracking attendee participation across specified platforms. Reward attendees for being the most active and socially engaged.

Fun factor: Any method of gamification can make a meeting experience distinctly interesting, engaging and unique. The fun is inherent.

Step 2: At the end of any game, there’s a winner, right? The same goes for the gamification of your event.

The “prize” need not be monetary; it could include status rewards—think VIP access to networking events, dinners or cocktail receptions. Other prizes could be event swag, gift certificates from local businesses and services, and access to or discounts on hotel amenities.