The event planning industry is constantly evolving, with new trends being introduced each year. If you were to compare modern-day events to events hosted 20 years ago, the difference would be night and day. We now have accessible WiFi, broadband Internet speeds, faster computers, improved electronic displays and more. So, what kind of event planning trends can you expect to see in 2017?
Real-Time Analytics
Event planners are now using real-time analytics to improve guest satisfaction and achieve greater success with their events — a trend that will likely continue in 2017 and beyond. Real-time analytics can reveal exactly how many people are checking into your event; how many people are posting messages on social media about your event; and which booths/sections guests are visiting. Using this information, you can optimize your event for a greater response among guests.
Audience Engagement
This isn’t a new trend, but it’s certainly gaining momentum in the realm of event planning. Just last year, Bizzabo conducted a survey in which it found “audience engagement” was the biggest event planning trend (84%). Regardless of your event’s goals and objectives, it will almost certainly be more successful if guests are actively engaged.
Entertainment
There’s no better way to improve audience engagement at an event than by making it fun, which is probably why entertainment is such a hot trend in the event planning industry. Whether it’s a professional magician like Ben Silver or a live band, entertainment is well worth the investment when planning an event. It boosts guest engagement by creating a stronger connection with the audience.
Personalized Registration
Many events are now offering personalized registration. Basically, this means guests are provided with personalized activities and recommendations based on criteria such as age, gender, interests, etc. Many industry-leading event management software already supports personalized registration, and there’s no sign of this trend slowing down anytime soon.
Mobile Check-In
In the past, guests typically checked into events using a ticket with a barcode. Many events still use this format for their check-ins, but there’s a growing trend towards the use of mobile device check-ins. EventBrite, for instance, has a mobile app (both iOS and Android versions) for this very purpose. Event planners can use the app to scan both barcodes and QR codes on paper and digital tickets. Mobile check-in solutions such as this are beneficial for several reasons: they eliminate the need for paper; they improve guest satisfaction and, digital tickets are less likely to become lost or stolen.