The 2020 Democratic National Convention (DNC) and the Republican National Convention (RNC) were perfect examples of different approaches to virtual event production. Each provided the events industry with ideas on how to move forward with virtual events of our own.
Millions of people tuned into the Democratic and Republican convention coverage from their homes. Despite both being considered virtual (or hybrid) events, they were approached very differently from a technical perspective. Here are three successful strategies from each production that can be implemented during your upcoming events:
Successes of the Democratic National Convention (DNC):
- The democrats were clearly focused on overt social distancing and utilizing technology that’s become go-to in recent months. As Wired Magazine stated, “The DNC was the best Zoom meeting of 2020 – so far”. While the control room was located in Milwaukee, their production team was spread across the nation and working in non-traditional environments … including the director calling shots from home!
- Using LTN Global’s Live Video Cloud (LVC), engineers were able to access viewers’ webcam feeds as sources throughout the event. This was a great example of engaging the audience by literally reaching into their living room. Involving virtual participants in the broadcasted program was unique but we’re betting it’ll start happening a lot more often.
- Drive-in watch parties were organized in lieu of an in-person event. Outdoor theaters are popping up across the country; and until it’s deemed safe to gather without distancing, family groups can park and enjoy a somewhat normal evening out. DNC watch parties exemplified how groups can gather while still remaining distant.
Additional information regarding the DNC’s production available here: https://www.provideocoalition.com/behind-the-scenes-of-the-2020-democratic-national-convention/
Successes of the Republican National Convention (RNC):
- Republicans produced a more traditional broadcast from multiple locations with in-person audiences. Despite criticism regarding distancing guidelines, seeing in-person gatherings reminded us of the value and appreciation associated with traditional meetings.
- Pre-produced video segments (while common for corporate, association, and broadcast events) are not typically utilized during political events. The RNC’s use of these video segments to create entertaining elements provided successful and natural transitions between presentations.
- The use of scenic b-roll helped soften potential jump cuts from live to pre-taped presentations, and from the stage to remote locations, making transitions more fluid. These techniques are common in the production of live sports but aren’t typically used in staged events.
Despite the challenges currently related to large gatherings, we must find ways to successfully relay our messages. The DNC quickly adapted to deploy recently-developed techniques that were expedited by COVID-19, while the RNC succeeded using traditional production methods and in-person audiences. Future approaches will be heavily influenced by restrictions, participant expectations, and budget.
As you navigate the next generation of your event, we invite you to take elements from both the DNC and RNC and also consider some best practices related to audience engagement. Intentionally take into consideration how to create experiences that are more engaging and less fatiguing than Zoom calls. Remember that your audience needs these connective experiences more than ever.
At Encompass, we have unique backgrounds that situate us perfectly to produce high end and complex offerings. We’ve worked in broadcast television, touring entertainment, live sporting events, and countless convention facilities across the country.
We have technical design experience and a disciplined process in place that allows us to easily scale events and shift from in-person to virtual without angst. There isn’t much that’s beyond our scope and we love the intensity of putting on events!
If you’re a planner working to create an event, seeking help with virtual event technology, or simply want to learn more … we can help! Sign up below to receive our updates (we promise to keep your contact information secure and won’t “overshare”).