The events industry refers to applying project management techniques by ensuring participation in small-scale or large-scale events. These events include concerts, exhibitions, conferences, and the like. The events trend went a notch higher when Covid-19 struck the world in 2020.

Though it created a lot of fear and anxiety, it also enhanced more technical innovations, and people have come to appreciate more of what they can do through human interaction. This was accelerated through the usage of online platforms when the lockdown was put in place. Even after the restrictions were lifted in 2021, most organizations found it a safer way to communicate to the global audience and still closed businesses that would have otherwise demanded long-distance travel.

Let us look at five event industry trends in 2022-2024.

The Hybrid Customer Experience

This eCommerce experience brings together the in-person experience and elements of eCommerce. For instance, getting to know the number of customers that make orders online and those that receive them in their nearest stores.

From an analytical review, 97% of people interviewed expect to see the hybrid experience rise in 2022 and beyond, while 70% expect that 2022 will act as a baseline for the events industry.

Covid-19 prompted such an experience, and most local or international companies have embraced the massive innovations that have turned out positively to the audience.

Hybrid strategy implementation has enabled users to see beyond their target customers. They can now venture into different markets, sell out other products and emerge as global market leaders in an industry they never thought they would excel in.

Collecting and Analyzing Information Before an Event

This event industry trend has had its side benefits. For one, gathering information before the event’s onset helps the organizer relate the points for the meeting at hand and, as such, engages the audience more amicably.

The event organizer makes this a success through.

  • Getting to know the right tools to use for a successful data collection, and
  • From the information gathered, one can plan on the type of incentives, discounts, or any opportunities to offer during and after the event.

Lay Emphasis on Health and Safety Guidelines

At the onset of Covid-19, strict measures were put in place to control the disease. This did not end even after the restrictions were lifted. It has also been noted that some people still prefer online meetings, while others must be assured of their safety if they go for an in-person meeting. With this, the emphasis continues to be placed on observing safety protocols.

An instance is where before entering the auditorium, there must be scans, others prefer to be masked, sanitizing hands before entry, and online registrations, and proximity alerts have been enhanced.

Application of AI and Machine Learning

Artificial intelligence sounded like stories that could never happen. But with the emergence of COVID-19, this became a reality.

How has AI been a success in virtual meetings?

  • Accommodating more than 5,000 attendees at every session.
  • Ability to hold for up to 50 sessions.

The audience has benefited to a larger  extent, with some of the benefits being;

  • Use of Chatbots. This is where you ask questions that are answered immediately online, saving time and resources.
  • Ability to network. In circumstances where you need to engage a specific audience, one can control the AI to engage audiences with similar goals and interests.
  • AI has no language barriers. Since AI can translate any language, and one will be able to target clients according to the products and services that need to be sold.

All you need to do with this event industry trend is to ensure that the chatbots respond in time for any questions raised and, most importantly, use the current software similar attendees are using for a seamless flow of communication.

Use of Event Apps

An event app is a software that is set for social audience engagement. It is purposely customized to match the modules that fit the audience subject and drive user activeness because of the friendly features available.

The event apps can be used to gather information before and after the meeting and give guidance on decision-making. They help the audience to engage without physical interaction, yet real-time information is communicated in its entirety.

Conclusion

These five event industry trends are among many that have improved audience interaction, attracted attention, and offered flexibility such that the critical issues in the world driving businesses today are not affected no matter the distance.

It is important to note that whatever leads to the event industry remain constant so long as your audience focuses on the industry lead leverage.