Events and conferences are no longer just a weekend of inspirational talks and breakout sessions listened to with a pen and notepad in hand. Interactive event apps are redefining attendee experiences and event management strategies. The technology fosters engagement; increases communication; and creates a personalized experience while continuing the conversation after the event.
These apps serve as digital hubs where organizers can orchestrate event details seamlessly, while attendees gain access to essential information and interactive features at their fingertips. Here are some of the key features that can enhance events and conferences that are vital aspects of the direct selling space.
Six Benefits for Attendees
1 / Agendas and Schedules
Attendees can easily access event schedules, session details and speaker bios, empowering them to plan their itinerary efficiently.
2 / Exhibitor Listings
By providing comprehensive exhibitor listings, apps allow attendees to easily explore products, services and booth locations.
3 / Customized Agendas
Attendees can personalize their event experience by creating customized agendas tailored to their interests and preferences.
4 / Recommendation Features
Many event apps offer personalized recommendations for sessions, exhibitors and networking opportunities based on attendee preferences.
5 / Interactive Features
Live surveys can gauge attendee satisfaction with hosts, sessions, venue atmosphere, logistics and more. Push notifications instantly keep attendees informed of any changes or directions.
6 / Networking Tools
Attendees can connect with peers, speakers and exhibitors, fostering valuable professional relationships and networking opportunities. Some features include quick and easy sharing of contact info.
Unlocking Interactive Engagement
Mobile event apps offer a wide range of features aimed at enhancing interactive engagement and empowering attendees to maximize their event experiences. Live polling and Q&A sessions foster real-time interaction between attendees and speakers, promoting dynamic engagement, and fostering meaningful dialogue during sessions. Attendees can also rate speakers and sessions in real time. Additionally, integration with social media platforms enables seamless sharing of event highlights, photos and insights, which goes a long way in expanding the event’s reach and encouraging community engagement.
Networking tools such as attendee-to-attendee contact exchange, chat functionalities and match algorithms facilitate networking and collaboration, enabling attendees to broaden their professional networks and establish valuable connections. According to a report by G2, 91 percent of event organizers consider event apps crucial for event success, while Markletic reports that 78 percent of companies using mobile event apps attribute them to a positive event ROI. These statistics highlight the significant impact of mobile event apps on attendee experiences and event outcomes.
By leveraging insights provided by these apps, organizers can customize their event strategies to align with attendee needs and preferences, which increases engagement and satisfaction. However, it’s important to keep the app experience as an enhancement to the event and not a distraction from what’s happening on stage.
From the May 2024 issue of Direct Selling News magazine.
