Events have changed a lot this year, but some of that change has become a springboard for innovation. The Hub and Spoke Model, more commonly known in the airline industry, is a terrific way to reach more people, expand market share and increase revenue. It integrates perfectly into modern virtual/hybrid event workflows.
Here’s how it works …
This radial concept pertains to events that exist both remotely and/or in-person with multiple locations. The “hub” is based on a platform that delivers consistent branding and messaging to all participants. The “spokes” range from individual viewers to packed arenas. Spokes can be watch-only or participate in bi-directional communication as determined by need and budget. This model ensures the same experience for everyone whether at home, a hosted watch party, or a traditional ballroom/arena venue.
Tangible benefits include …
- Expanded Reach (number of participants and markets)
- Sponsorship Opportunities (increased exposure and co-branding potential plus additional revenue)
- Team Building and Networking
- Fun (it’s a watch party – tune in and be a part of it!)
- Human Connection
- Sense of Normalcy
Who should consider this model?
Corporations
Example: A national sales kickoff with associated regional meetings. This allows regional officers to have their own culture and their own experiences … dealing with their team on a local level while still participating in the national event.
Example: A town hall with executives broadcasting from across the country to show solidarity among the company and to include each location in a relatable, personal way. Regions can also broadcast back with a presentation or perspective that’s unique to them.
Nonprofits
Example: A virtual fundraiser with hosted watch parties (homes, restaurants, country clubs, etc.). This model is efficient in raising money through co-branding and co-locating. Sponsors can “own” a location making it special for them and their VIP guests.
Associations
Example: An annual association meeting with keynote presentations, entertainment, and bylaws voting plus regional breakouts and social gatherings.
Houses of Worship
Example: A service with multiple locations viewing the primary campus (with live feeds from other campuses). The worship band can be divided between the campuses so each site has a complete in-person experience. Following a message from the lead pastor, secondary sites can cut away to their local worship band and pastor delivering a message at their individual locations. Of course, feeds from one or all of the campuses can be streamed for parishioners participating from home.
Conclusion
Regardless of your industry, the Hub and Spoke Model has advantages over traditional events and might be a good option for you. It’s also a great stepping stone toward the new reality of in-person and hybrid events!
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”).