Planning a hybrid event can feel a bit daunting. Working with event tech, in general, can feel a bit overwhelming. Despite being two years into the virtual revolution. That’s because there are constant updates to event platforms (not to mention entirely new platforms). It can feel like you just get the hang of 3.0 and 3.1a comes out, with even more features and options for you to familiarise yourself with.
As Covid restrictions ease up once again, all of that can make you feel like it is time to ditch the tech. But that would be a mistake.
Keep planning hybrid events! Omicron reminded us that a pandemic really is a volatile time.
Just as we get to grips with one version of life, another variant rears its head and quickly puts a stop to that. You need to be prepared for literally anything – sudden travel bans, event restrictions, mask mandates.
To help you be prepared, we have put together some tips on planning a hybrid event.
- Bring your virtual partner in ASAP. You need your virtual provider to be included from the beginning. You need to know how it all works and what it’s going to look like. Have an idea? Run it past your virtual provider to see if it works. Bringing your platform provider in halfway means that some of your ideas may not work. Best to know that in the beginning.
- Make sure you do a dry run with all your speakers. If your speakers are joining virtually, they need to go through the process at least once. You need to know and plan for every possibility. On that same note, if you have a mix of virtual and in-person speakers you need a backup! If the internet suddenly drops at the venue, be able to go live with a virtual presentation or speaker.
- 365 engagement. It’s important (and currently trendy for good reason) to create a community for the event. You want people to engage before and after the event.
Hybrid is fast becoming the industry standard. We have a great hybrid toolbox designed to drive registrations and attendee engagement and ensure a simple virtual attendee experience. We can also help you with your Covid safety protocols, by using our covid tracking check-in app.
In an ever-changing pandemic landscape and well beyond that, hybrid events will be with us long after mask mandates.
To find out more about how we can help you create a great hybrid experience you can get in touch here or book time with us in our calendar.