Innovation #6: Expand Options for Virtual Attendance

Innovation #6: Expand Options for Virtual Attendance

Most event platforms are accessible via a traditional web browser, but some now are expanding into making more features and engagement opportunities available via mobile apps, as well. Such solutions may be the Trojan Horse for driving a more robust experience for those participating in hybrid events by making it possible for remote attendees to experience much of the content and engagement they would experience had they attended in-person.

As illustrated in Figure 6, WH survey respondents are largely in favor of any technology implementation that simplifies the process of accessing an event on a remote basis. Overall, two-thirds of respondents agree that “I would attend more conferences overall if given the option to participate remotely.” Certainly, the implementation of solutions that make content accessible via mobile devices as well as traditional desktop web browsers creates a path for more remote users to engage with an event than ever before.

FIGURE 6

Agree/Disagree: I Would Attend More Conferences Overall if Given the Option to Participate Remotely — Overall Respondents

11%

Disagree/No Opinion

In an age where more event planners aspire to create hybrid events that serve attendees both on-site and online, the availability of mobile applications can enhance the event experience even for those attending in-person. The same online solution that makes it possible for remote attendees to view a presentation a thousand miles away also makes it possible for on-site attendees to tune into the same session if they get stuck and cannot make it to a meeting room on time.

The mobile app also becomes a gateway that presenters can use to collect opinion poll feedback from all attendees, whether they are participating in-person or remotely. Mobile devices also serve as a venue enabling one-on-one video meetings between on-site and remote attendees, creating more opportunities for meaningful engagement for both groups.

23%

Neutral

31%

Strongly Agree

35%

Somewhat Agree