INSIGHTS

Elevating your event using technology

 

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Talking tech with Chris Di Pasqua Event Technology Developer, FCM M&E

As an experienced tech developer, Chris can be found flexing his considerable creative and tech skills to transform events. Having worked across both web development and account management, during his 14 years at Flight Centre, Chris also understands the client’s mindset. Most of all, he loves problem solving, thrives on the creative challenge of building event websites and apps and savours the satisfaction of seeing it all come to fruition.

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What are your go-to event tech tools?

There are so many different tools available to use at different stages of the event lifecycle and FCM Meetings and Events has bought the best together in our Event Management Software. Add a tailor-made Event Website and customised Event App and you’re ready to make a powerful impression. Whether an event is relatively small, big or massive, the use of these technologies helps to drive attendee engagement for a more interactive and personal experience.

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How does tech deliver efficiency and value?

In so many ways both big and small – before, during and after an event! From online delegate registration and payment, through to delegate comms and post-event surveys. Our job, and the tech we use, is designed to look at an event holistically and to streamline both client and delegate processes from beginning to end.

Our Event Management Software pulls together all event elements, from processing registration, to travel and accommodation, the agenda, speaker bios, marketing and reporting. Data captured in the registration process can be used to automate pre-event comms and to drive DIY attendee check-in at event kiosks. App data can also be efficiently analysed post-event to provide client with feedback reports, engagement insights and to identify areas for future improvement.

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What are the event tech essentials?

A fully customised and branded Event Website and Event App are powerful, ‘must-have’ tools for a cohesive and successful event.

An Event Website can generate excitement and provide an interactive platform for attendees, suppliers and sponsors. It’s the place people will turn to first for more agenda information, speaker bios, FAQs, registration, interactive maps, exhibitor info and past event feedback.

A branded Event App is a vital attendee tool available 24/7 which they can use for contactless check-in, to see their personalised agenda, travel bookings, to receive important alerts and to participate in polls and Q&A sessions.

With the increasing focus on sustainability, this tech can eliminate the need for printed materials too, because essential information is available to access online.

What's a typical event tech timeline?

The event tech build process has three main phases.

Pre-event excitement

This is when we focus on the website build and marketing comms to create engagement, build excitement and drive online registration. Here the branded event identity is used at every touchpoint and we work with the client to design customised registration forms with different fields to capture information, such as travel options and accessibility requirements. The technology enables us to personalise the registration portal to different audiences, so attendees only see information that’s relevant to them. Automated marketing campaigns can be programmed to send personalised EDMs and SMS messaging, with links to speakers and event news in the weeks and days leading up to the event

About a month out from the event, a tailored event App is usually launched and constantly up-dated in the lead up to the event. This is personalised for each attendee with travel information, registration details, event sessions and everything else they need to know.

At the event

This is when the App comes into its own by reminding attendees to check-in, sending alerts, gathering real-time feedback and providing interactive access to sessions to make them more memorable and immersive. The App becomes the source of all knowledge for attendees and it’s also our way of communicating with them and tracking their engagement. I’ll stay in touch with the logistics team throughout the event to update info on the App if the schedule changes and to send post-session surveys.

The Event App can also give virtual attendees an interactive experience by enabling them to livestream event sessions, engage with Q&A sessions and provide feedback.

Post-event follow-up

Post-event the website and App are both utilised to upload event videos, view recorded sessions on demand, share photos, post surveys and to gain vital feedback from attendees. Follow-up comms are generated with an attendee survey, and feedback can be shared.

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How can tech spice things up?

With so much new tech coming online – it’s game on. We're seeing AI, Augmented and Virtual Reality, and Gamification all changing the event space. AI’s driving personalisation with its ability to analyse attendee preferences, interests and provide recommendations for sessions. While AI powered chatbots can provide real-time assistance, to improve response times and free up human resources.

Augmented and Virtual Reality are revolutionising content by supporting the incorporation of pop up, interactive content and bringing attendees together to participate in a virtual world or even a product demonstration.

There’s a lot of fun to be had with gamification too! It has the ability to drive engagement and to reward attendees for completing certain tasks, such as attending a morning meditation session, with prizes on offer to keep people engaged.

Aren’t Apps just for the tech savvy?

Not at all! If clients are unfamiliar with tech – that’s fine, that’s what FCM Meetings and Events is here for. We get that not everyone wants to know how all the technology works, they just want the results it can offer.

FCM Meetings & Events tech is a game-changer

Don’t know where to start? We get it – let the tech gurus at FCM Meetings and Events guide you. Our specialists can elevate your next event with innovative tech that will change your perception of what’s possible. Because beyond FCM Meetings and Events’ renowned event management and group travel expertise, you’ll find true inspiration in our cutting-edge tech and creative development that delivers something magical.

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