With the end of 2015 upon us, it’s time for event professionals to look ahead into the coming year, brainstorming and predicting the new ideas and trends that might take off and thrive over the course of time. There’s no absolute certainty as to what will work and what won’t, but industry insiders continue to emphasize that attendees continue to crave a visual and interactive experience, rather than just retaining information and hoping it sticks.
To do this, insiders are now tapping into new and emerging technology in the hopes of not necessarily taking away from personal interaction, but simply taking it to the next level.
Video Mapping
At its core, video mapping is basically video projection, albeit it can be done on a variety of surfaces and with a multitude of mediums. Rather than just using a flat screen or a wall, event coordinators can now utilize irregular shaped objects, monuments, or people in order to make a solid first impression on attendees. This is perfect for events or conferences with a particular theme, and allows event planners to step outside the typical square space in order to get people talking.
With video mapping, you can display a welcoming introduction as people wait in line to register for the event. There’s no need to worry about old-school projection screens taking up space or dragging around heavy equipment in order to make sure it works.
Wearables
Though mainstream usage seems a few years away, there’s already a lot of buzz regarding the potential impact that wearable technology might have on the industry. From Apple and Samsung watches to specially designed clothing, this literally puts the event in another person’s hands, saving people time and energy to enjoy the event as they please.
Guests can easily access videos and necessary information, or take pictures without the constant hassle of finding and using a Smartphone. It’s also efficient for event staff, as they can track attendee data and analytics more so than ever before.
Interactive Kiosks
Interactive Kiosks are primarily used for consumer engagement and various event promotions. Event professionals can either incorporate a photobooth or some kind of interactive game to liven up the atmosphere, or use it primarily to give attendees access to useful information for the event. In a way, Kiosks can and should serve the purpose of being a home base for attendees, whether it involves a way to unwind or make sure that they’re up to speed on the itinerary for the day.
Apps and Bluetooth Technology
Similar to Kiosks, event apps serve as a kind of home base for attendees, used within the context of a Smartphone instead of a computer screen. They are tailored specifically for the event itself, communicating necessary information and providing a host of engagement opportunities for industry insiders and newcomers. In turn, beacons are specific trigger-oriented areas that help users engage and receive that information when they’re in that particular space of the vicinity.
It benefits event hosts and attendees alike, as they can track and gather data in real time, and communicate with their audience by simply touching a button. You can learn more about what a beacon is and how you can take advantage of this exciting new technology in our article: Beacon Technology & How It Will Transform Your Events.
One could argue that including any of these in an event might decrease the likelihood of emotional connection, particularly in regards to human interaction. However, when you have the ability to ease the registration process, communicate event info more efficiently and effectively, and foster larger levels of engagement, you give attendees the most opportunities to have that lasting human to human experience.
