Nick Vuoto
Nick Vuoto is an Account Executive with Concept3D, creator of immersive online experiences with 3D modeling, interactive maps and virtual tour software. Nick specializes in supporting event and hospitality clients.
Using Technology to Make Your Events More Interactive
July 17, 2019
Trade shows, expos, fairs, fundraisers, you name it – events are changing and integrating new technologies to make the experience more engaging and interactive for participants. Event planners are working hard to improve the guest experience and make visits memorable and engaging. But time and attention are limited, and finding the right mix of tech can be a challenge.
Technology serves an important role in the success of events but must be user-friendly and complement the event’s goal. If the time and effort to use certain tools outweighs the value, it can overwhelm visitors.
Below are several examples of event technology that are becoming more prevalent and designed to help event planners, guests and vendors alike.
Radio Frequency Identification (RFID)
RFID can streamline previously clunky processes, like checking a bag or coat. But the fun starts with the ability to use RFID to increase interactivity and utility for guests, including a quick scan at a booth to request more information or be entered into a giveaway, among many other uses.
From event ticketing to attendee mapping, RFID technology is an event tech tool that will continue to grow and be used anywhere from music festivals to trade shows. Noodle Live, an event technology company specializing in RFID smart badge solutions, has taken RFID to the next level. The company has designed treasure hunts, personalized information points and workshop booking points, and more.
Virtual & Augmented Reality
Virtual reality and augmented reality continue to be hot, and there are a number of different applications of VR that organizers can use, from wayfinding to visitor engagement.
VR allows event attendees to be immersed in an experience, from feeling what it’s like to skydive to becoming a tree being cut down by workers to show the effects of deforestation. VR truly allows visitors to engage with an event or project.
VR is also a great tool to use for wayfinding, as many convention centers and event venues can be challenging to navigate. Having virtual tours of an event space allows visitors to get a better idea of what the campus looks like before arriving.
AR can also engage users with only their phones. Having stations set up throughout an event incorporating AR can allow visitors to simply hold up their smartphone over an image on the wall and be transported into an engaging experience.
While VR and AR have vast and complicated uses, there are applications of these tools that are easy and fun for event planners to implement.
Drones
Drones may be a more controversial piece of technology, but that isn’t stopping the use of commercial drones, especially in events. The FAA predicts the commercial drone market will triple over the next five years, hitting 835,000 drones by 2023.
Drones can take amazing aerial photos and videos during an event for social media and real-time engagement, as well as capturing footage of set up before the event to start creating buzz.
Apart from creating or capturing the event experience, drones can assist in event security and surveillance of events so event planners can quickly identify anything that might be out of place or could pose a danger to attendees. Additionally, drones can be used for logistical monitoring, such as parking lot traffic or the flow of people.
Mobile Event Apps
Event apps are effective and many event planners are making the most of apps so attendees can experience events from anywhere. Apps can offers schedules, speaker profiles, networking event info, navigation tools and much more.
App developers are working on integrating new technology like VR and AR to make events more interactive. One example is creating an AI scavenger hunt feature for attendees to explore the event venue. Apps can also be integrated with push notifications or live wayfinding so attendees can be alerted when a meeting is starting and provide directions to the location.
Integrating different forms of technology into your event can enhance the visitor experience. But when planning an event, make sure to balance the tech you use so those tools add to the experience rather than distract from it.
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Partner Voices
MGM Resorts is renowned for its exceptional service and diverse venue options across Las Vegas, Detroit, Springfield, National Harbor, Biloxi, and Atlantic City, providing flexible spaces for meetings of any size. Beyond these offerings, MGM Resorts distinguishes itself through a strong commitment to social responsibility and sustainability, making it an ideal choice for your next meeting.
At the core of MGM Resorts' company values is its platform, "Focused on What Matters," dedicated to meeting customer needs while advancing socially responsible practices. This commitment is evident in several key areas:
Protecting Natural Resources
MGM Resorts is home to industry-leading recycling, renewable electricity and water conservation programs. Some highlights include a cogeneration power plant at ARIA, producing ultra-efficient electricity; one of America’s largest contiguous rooftop solar arrays atop the convention center at Mandalay Bay; and onsite wells that provide water for the celebrated Fountains of Bellagio, avoiding reliance on precious Colorado River water. These efforts and many more save on natural resources while boosting attendee satisfaction.
Committed to Community
Always striving to be good neighbors, MGM Resorts works to avoid food waste and combat food insecurity with the Feeding Forward program. In partnership with local food banks, they safely divert unserved food to food insecure members of the community. Since 2016, over 5 million meals have been provided, highlighting MGM Resorts' commitment to minimizing food waste and addressing community needs.
MGM Resorts supports clients in their responsible-meetings efforts, not only with efficient venues but also waste-reducing décor and signage; sustainable food and beverage options; and outreach to help planners communicate sustainability efforts to attendees. What’s more, they offer a Mindful Meetings series that puts attendee wellness first—through fitness and mindfulness activities, and in give-back events with local charity organizations.
Fostering Diversity & Inclusion
To MGM Resorts, a diverse and talented workforce is essential to success. By cultivating innovative strategies that consider multiple perspectives and viewpoints, the company creates an inclusive workplace culture that benefits its employees and community. MGM Resorts takes pride in being a welcoming home for veterans, individuals with disabilities, people from diverse backgrounds, LGBTQ+ community members, and more. This commitment to inclusion is reflected in the company's recruitment and hiring practices and its social responsibility initiatives. From the workplace to the community, MGM Resorts' commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion remains unwavering, and its efforts continue to create a more equitable and sustainable world for all.
MGM Resorts offers unparalleled service and venue options while standing out for its proactive approach to sustainability and community engagement. Choosing MGM Resorts for your next meeting means aligning with a company that values social responsibility, efficiency, and attendee satisfaction, ensuring a meaningful and impactful event experience.
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