The events and exhibitions industry has demonstrated significant transformation in the past couple of years. Most of the transformation in this sector can be attributed to the pandemic. When the coronavirus pandemic hit, practitioners in this sector responded by implementing innovations to keep the industry running. Practitioners in the live event and exhibition sector have maintained most of these innovations even after the pandemic. Also, several other innovations exist in this sector that are not related to the pandemic. Such innovations are aimed at improving convenience and the success of live events and exhibitions.
Innovations in live event and exhibition design
These are innovations that affect how live events are structured. Some innovations in live event and exhibition design are:
Innovative exhibition stands
It is worth mentioning that not all innovations in live events and exhibitions are centered on technology. Innovators have also come up with innovative designs for the live event and exhibition stands. For instance, there are portable exhibition stands that allow users to easily transport them between venues. The custom modular exhibition stand is also an innovation worth noting.
Immersive booth designs
There has been an increase in the application of modern booth designs during live events and exhibitions. These designs embrace technology and they aim to create interactive experiences for attendees. They include digital signage, virtual reality, and touchscreens. These immersive booth designs allow exhibitors to engage their attendees in product showcases, hence creating a memorable experience.
Sustainability in live event and exhibition practices
Innovation also plays a key role in promoting sustainability in various sectors, including the live event and exhibition sectors. Digital designs for booths and signage tools are perfect examples. For instance, portable booths promote recycling, while digital signage reduces the use of printed materials. Energy-efficient lighting and smart building designs also play a key role in promoting sustainability by reducing unnecessary energy consumption.
Innovations in live event and exhibition execution
These are innovations that influence how live events and exhibitions are conducted. Some noteworthy innovations in live event and exhibitions execution are:
Virtual live events and exhibitions
Even after the pandemic, virtual events are here to stay. Currently, most businesses that rely on live events for marketing and connecting with clients have adopted the virtual concept. Initially, live events were introduced as a solution during the pandemic. However, businesses have realized that these events are cheaper, easier to organize, and quite convenient.
With proper planning, virtual events can be extremely successful and beneficial. Even companies that went back to in-person events after the pandemic have not let go of the virtual concept entirely. For instance, the world's largest trade show, the CES, took place as a virtual event in 2021 and both a virtual and in-person event in 2022.
Furthermore, several virtual event platforms have come up. These platforms help businesses and individuals run live virtual events easily and conveniently.
The Metaverse
The Metaverse refers to a connected, persistent online world where users connect using virtual reality or avatars. It is more engaging and immersive than other online channels like social media and websites. The entertainment industry has taken quite well to this innovation. For instance, international artists like Ariana Grande and Travis Scot have put on live events in the Metaverse. Businesses are also looking for ways to get into the metaverse scene.
Social media
Social media plays a key role in promoting live events and exhibitions. Event organizers use social media to promote their events' presence and engage their attendees. Advanced innovations like social media integration features allow event organizers to integrate social media into their booth designs. Live social media feeds and hashtag campaigns are perfect examples of social media integration in live event and exhibition designs and execution.
Streamlined event management
Innovators have come up with creative ways to make event management more efficient and accurate. Currently, several platforms offer event management solutions for streamlined processes. These solutions ensure that processes like registration, floor plan design, and other critical services are streamlined. They also automate critical tasks in event management so that event organizers have an easier time focusing on engaging with attendees and other pressing issues.
Conclusion
Innovations
in live event and exhibition design have proven to be extremely beneficial in
the planning, execution, and management of successful events. For instance,
these innovations enhance attendee engagement by creating immersive
experiences. They also aid in promoting better decision-making. For instance,
attendance tracking and analytics tools help event organizers make data-driven
decisions by giving them insight into their attendees' demographics, behaviors,
and responses.
