Event Tech Check: Innovations Shaping the Future of Events
As the events industry continues to evolve, new technologies are emerging to help planners measure success, understand attendees, and streamline operations. This month’s tech check dives into the latest tools designed to enhance events of all types.
Events are becoming increasingly sophisticated, with technology playing a central role in creating memorable experiences. The 2024 Atlanta Pride Official Kickoff Party, hosted at the Georgia Aquarium, showcased this trend with its “Intergalactic Futuristic Disco” theme. Designed by YES Event Designs, the event incorporated a spaceship-shaped LED DJ booth with cosmic video displays and holographic projections, alongside an interactive LED dance floor.
Measuring Event Success and ROI
Understanding the impact of events is crucial. To that end, RainFocus has launched the Event Benchmark Assessment, a tool helping organizations compare their events to industry standards. The assessment uses data from thousands of events to provide benchmarks across event stages, from registration to post-event feedback, enabling planners to identify areas for improvement and demonstrate ROI.
“Events are an extremely valuable resource for zero- and first-party data critical to the success of sales and marketing teams post-event,” said Brian Gates, senior vice president of industry strategy at RainFocus. “We’ve leveraged that data to create a resource for event professionals and leaders who want to understand how their events stack up against industry standards, what event success looks like, and how to iterate and improve on their events in the future.”
Gauging Attendee Engagement in Real Time
Bishop-McCann’s Joy Index offers a novel approach to attendee engagement, using AI to measure emotional responses during events. The tool utilizes facial analytics and wearable technology to track participants’ emotional responses and energy levels, providing instant feedback that can inform adjustments during the event itself.
“With the Joy Index, we’re moving beyond vanity metrics like five-star ratings. Our approach lets us track real-time engagement, moment by moment, to see exactly how attendees are reacting,” said Rob Adams, CEO and owner of Bishop-McCann. “This allows us to dissect every session and make adjustments on the fly to ensure our events resonate deeply and effectively with the audience.”
Streamlining Bookings and Venue Management
Technology is also streamlining the logistical aspects of event planning. Meetingselect has partnered with Shiji Group to integrate its Meeting Booking Widget with venue websites. This integration allows venues to receive and manage booking requests more efficiently, offering real-time availability and enhanced visibility.
Anne Beekman-de Ruiter, Meetingselect’s director of technology partnerships, stated, “By integrating with Shiji PMS, we’re helping venues enhance their efficiency and visibility, making it easier for them to attract and manage bookings from our extensive client base.”
Furthermore, PixMob, in collaboration with the LA Clippers and DreamSeat, has launched the NOVA Armrest at LA’s Intuit Dome. This installation features LED-lit armrests that synchronize with game action and music. Each armrest includes USB charging, NFC connectivity, and interactive buttons, transforming seats into a digital canvas and enhancing the fan experience while offering new sponsorship opportunities.
J-O Dalphond, partner and chief commercial officer of PixMob, stated, “Our goal at PixMob is to create a moment known as ‘Collective Joy,’ ” which is when “the audience shares a unifying moments of awe when the venue lights up.”
