Even if you’ve only ever dipped your toes into the events industry, you’re still bound to have heard the word ‘hybrid’ being thrown around with force. For those of us who live and breathe events, this new exciting option for event production is a safer, more sensitive approach to getting events back to being in-person. No wonder we’re all talking about them!
In essence, a hybrid event is a mixture of on-site and online content delivery. Hybrids offer a naturally flexible format; some speakers may stream their sessions from remote locations while others may deliver their content face-to-face. Similarly, attendees can access sessions and make connections in-person or remotely.
…but what are some of the key benefits of choosing to go hybrid?
Make Savings
The first big plus in the column for hybrid events is a budgetary one. All those virtual attendees, or speakers, not claiming travel and accommodation expenses can make a huge difference to the bottom line.
Boost Inclusivity & Attendance
Attending an event in-person is also a significant commitment in terms of time. By offering a hybrid solution, conferences see a surge in attendance as the two options suit both those who want to attend in person and others who don’t. By utilising a virtual space, you are not constrained by the limitations of your physical event space. Having a range of attendance options is bound to attract new attendees who, for whatever logistical reason, couldn’t attend in the past.
Increase Engagement
Being smart with the integrated tools that are available now, like live polling, vote up Q + A and more, will engage your online audience and on-site attendees alike. Bringing in this level of engagement enables all of the elements of the event to come together and delivers a premium user experience.
Bring Virtual Events to Life
The switch to virtual was forced and, if we’re being honest, it’s not an event delivery model that many in the industry were already adopting or planning to in the short-term. Technology platforms like ours have facilitated the continued delivery of content and key messages to event attendees around the world, but it has become increasingly tricky to keep virtual attendees engaged. By adding in-person elements to virtual events, you can add a more human touch, helping your remote audience feel that they are part of a larger, shared experience. Most hybrid event platforms also offer engagement features to connect your in-person and remote audiences to each other.
Additional Sponsorship Opportunities
Hybrid is an attractive model for event sponsors due to its increased reach, enabling interaction with attendees that stretches beyond the constraints of an exhibition stand in a venue reception. There are also many areas in a hybrid platform that can be branded to maximise awareness – for example, a sponsor may have their own virtual networking room, branded to their requirements, that enables them to engage with both the online and on-site attendees.
Climate Positive
Hybrid cars… now hybrid events? Clearly, there’s something in this! Broadcasting online means fewer attendees needing to travel and can help you meet the eco-targets your event is striving for.
We’re sure you can probably tell by now that we are really excited about the opportunities that hybrid events offer our clients and we’d love to show you what is possible using the CrowdComms’ hybrid event platform.
Get in touch to detail your needs or call us to chat things through.
