There have been a lot of perceived changes in how we approach events, but what’s really different? Big versus small … informational versus entertaining … virtual versus in-person. All events are about connecting messages or experiences with audiences. Digging into assumed contrasts between virtual and in-person events exposes more similarities than differences.
If you’ve been reluctant to plan an event for fear that the experience will be lost, the cost will be too high, or the audience won’t be receptive to your method of delivery; you should reconsider. When you break events down to the basics (content, budget, and intended audience) the similarities become clearer … and virtual events become much more approachable!
Content
Regarding the content, the main difference is that you’re streaming it directly to personal devices … wherever they happen to be … as opposed to showing it on a large display to a captive audience. As a result, your production needs to compete with their television! The biggest mistake we’ve seen is trying to deliver a valuable message without interesting visuals such as multiple views and/or fantastic motion graphics to maintain the audience’s attention.
Pro Tip: Expectations of in-person events will undoubtedly change too. Be prepared for more cameras, better graphics, and second screen offerings in 2021.
Budget
As for budget, the past year has shown that the cost of virtual events isn’t much different than when hosting them in-person. Facility costs have largely been offset by emerging technology and virtual platforms. In the future, hybrid events will be the standard but technology will be much more affordable so there will only be a minimal increase in overall event costs.
Pro Tip: Virtual events have allowed for greater reach at the same cost which yields higher returns on sponsored and/or ticketed events.
Intended Audience
Audiences want to connect with businesses and other organizations. It truly doesn’t make a difference if your event is held on a website, in a conference center, or in an arena if the information and experience that you’re putting forward is still reaching significant audiences and the content is arriving in accessible and enjoyable ways.
Pro Tip: Promotion (ensuring your audience knows when/where to find your event and building anticipation) is just as important as the event itself.
Information is to be shared and experiences are to be had. Connection occurs regardless of where your audience is. Remember that the basic elements of any event are all the same … it’s just the delivery that has changed … and audiences are open to new experiences!
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”).