The analogy of an online platform being your digital “venue” works on a surprising number of levels. When we think about venues for in-person events, there are near infinite possibilities. Even narrowing it down to a specific brand—like Radisson Hotels—there are hundreds of locations, features and amenities to choose from.
The right venue for one group of attendees may not be right for another, and the value of the experience will depend on the target audience and what you’re trying to accomplish. In other words, which in-person venue you choose depends on the goals and objectives of the event and the value of the location to your stakeholders. So, it should be no surprise that when choosing an online platform, once again these are the keys to your success.
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Most online event platforms have the same basic functionality—audio and video of presenters, panels and keynotes, along with their presentations. Most include feedback features, such as Q&A and chat, with many others adding live polling, online agendas with links to the various sessions, their descriptions and speaker bios. With so many common features, most platforms would be perfectly capable and functional for most meetings and events.
But just like finding an amazing venue can make an already great event even better, finding the right platform can dramatically improve the attendee experience. Work with your stakeholders to find out what additional functionality and features may be important to them. Medical and scientific meetings often require “poster sessions” where researchers can present their works. Other industries might have their own requirements. Exhibitors may want an easy way to get attendee data into their marketing and sales software tools. Is networking a priority? If so, you may look for a platform that offers the ability for attendees to connect with each other afterward, or to set up appointments with vendors, exhibitors or sponsors.
Just keep in mind that the more features your platform has, the more confusing or overwhelming it may be for your attendees.
Generate a “wish list” of potential features, all stemming from the goals and objectives of your stakeholders, and then find a platform that has as many of them as possible within your budget. Evaluate feedback from stakeholder pain points and keep an eye out for platforms that might have features or functionality that will help alleviate those challenges. Just keep in mind that the more features your platform has, the more confusing or overwhelming it may be for your attendees.
Just like you might need additional welcome staff for a large or complex venue, you may need a group of volunteers or a digital concierge to ensure your digital participants get the help and technical support they need. If it helps, think of online attendee onboarding as the minibus that’s taking your group to their amazing event destination.
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