Posted on: Feb 21, 2022
Hybrid Events – The New Normal in the Events Industry
2 years ago, almost overnight, live events, conferences and company get-togethers became obsolete as we moved to virtual only. We managed to navigate the storm and learned so much along the way and although virtual events served their purpose and had their benefits, they only confirmed to us what we already knew – there is nothing that compares to a live experience. Now however, as we slowly come out of the pandemic, a new type of event is becoming an essential part of the new normal – hybrid events.
Hybrid events combine both in person and virtual elements bringing people together from across the globe who, for many reasons, may not be able or ready to travel. Hybrid experiences now play a fundamental role in the new normal within the events industry.
In this blog we’ll share our thoughts on the things to consider when planning a hybrid event, what factors will ensure it is a successful and enjoyable experience for all and the benefits in hosting your event this way.
Before organising your hybrid event you need to establish and set clear goals. How are you going to incorporate the virtual elements? How will you keep your remote attendees engaged? Will your marketing strategies be different? How should you adapt your content for online participation? Once you’ve laid out your objectives, it’s time to begin planning your hybrid experience.
The first thing to consider is how you are going to connect your live and remote audience and what is the best way to include your online participants. Depending on the style of your event, some of the best options available are:
- Live streaming presentations, speeches and panel discussions etc
- Recording live sessions and providing access on demand
- Break out discussions that include remote colleagues
- Interactive booths
- Chat rooms for online guests
- Event specific mobile app
There are so many benefits to going hybrid for your event.
One of the greatest benefits of hybrid events is the reduced impact on the environment. A lower in person head count means a lower carbon footprint. Less attendees required to travel, less food and water waste, less transportation of equipment and supplies. This can help businesses to fulfill their corporate social responsibilities and to be widely considered as an environmentally conscious organisation.
Hosting a hybrid event inevitably results in lower operational costs. It requires less catering, less accommodation and travel and less venue space. Funds that would have been spent on a bigger in person event can be redirected to other areas of the business.
Hybrid experiences also allow for greater flexibility. As we all know, in the current climate things can change rapidly. A cancellation of a live event due to unforeseen circumstances (whether that be associated with the pandemic or other factors such as a natural disaster) can cost considerably and result in disappointment for attendees. Having the virtual platform to fall back on will ensure that you are ready for uncertainties and can still put on a successful event. Hybrid gives delegates the choice whether to attend remotely or in person and demonstrates that your company is considerate and respectful of attendee safety and wellbeing.
If you do decide to go hybrid for your event, as long as you have engaging content and an integrated experience you will ensure a positive, productive and memorable experience for all!