Change is certainly bountiful, but it doesn’t have to dismiss everything from the past. Events have evolved, and the new perspective of how to host them has changed more than anything. Event platforms and studios … things that were once viewed as subsidiary … have become the venues themselves.
In the past, the top decision criteria in selecting a venue was the location. Where can two thousand people gather to hear key speakers, break out into smaller groups, participate in networking activities and shared meals? Where can we host an event that leaves a lasting impression through messaging and unseen technology? Virtual event platforms and studios have bridged that gap!
Why should we embrace the concept of “new venues”?
Accessibility
When events are organized at hotels and convention centers, there are a limited number of people who can attend due to cost and travel considerations. With the platform and studio as the new venue, the event can be more inclusive, offer greater (and easier) networking, and works for just about anyone. There is an extremely broad reach when delivering directly to your audiences’ devices!
Ease
Platforms offer various levels of customization including branding, layout, communication, scheduling, monetization, and fundraising. Your technical production partner probably has experience with several and can recommend the right one.
For clients, studios should appear simple and comfortable. The technology should enable a much higher level of customization and an “of course, we can do that” approach that wasn’t always the case in custom-quoted ballroom event situations. Working in a studio should feel more like a trip to the spa than elementary school detention!
Scalability
Having everyone gather for a grand event in one location is no longer the only … or even the best … option. Choices are much more dynamic now. Gatherings are infinitely scalable utilizing a studio alongside the appropriate virtual event platform. The concept of using a virtual event platform and studio as a venue works whether your event entails a multi-day conference with keynote speakers and breakout sessions, an evening gala and auction, or simply a highly produced one-on-one meeting.
This new awareness of the possibilities within event organization creates interesting opportunities for enhancing content delivery and retaining engagement with your audience. The added values of accessibility, ease of use, and scalability should lead to fewer sleepless nights for event professionals too! Virtual, hybrid, and traditional in-person events are forever changed and the best answer to, “what’s the right venue for my event?” might surprise you!
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”).