Moving Away From Virtual Events in 2023

By administrator

Jan 30, 2023

As the world continues to navigate the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, many organizations have turned to virtual events as a way to stay connected and conduct business. However, as we move into 2023, there is a growing sentiment that it's important to move away from virtual events and start returning to in-person gatherings. In-person events offer a level of personal connection and engagement that is difficult to replicate online, and many people are eager to return to the energy and excitement of live events. As we move forward, it's likely that a hybrid approach of both virtual and in-person events will become the norm, allowing organizations to reach a wider audience while still providing the benefits of in-person interactions. Here's why event organizers should be moving away from virtual events in 2023 and back to physical events, as well as a few ways to modernize post-covid. 

How Virtual Events Fail To Replace In Person Events

One of the main shortcomings of virtual conferences is the lack of personal connection and engagement. In-person events allow attendees to physically connect with one another, exchange ideas, and build relationships in a way that is difficult to replicate online. Virtual events also lack the energy and excitement of live events. The ability to see and hear a live audience can add to the experience of a speaker or performance, and the energy of a crowd can be contagious. In contrast, virtual events can feel isolated and disconnected.

Another drawback is that they can be less interactive and engaging. While virtual events have improved greatly with the advancements in technology, they still lack the ability to fully replicate the interactive nature of in-person events. For example, during an in-person trade show, attendees can physically interact with products, speak with vendors, and network with other attendees. In contrast, virtual conferences can feel impersonal and lack the ability to fully engage with products and vendors.

Additionally, virtual events can be less accessible to certain individuals. While virtual events are more accessible in terms of location, they can be less accessible for those with limited internet access or technical difficulties. Virtual events can also be less accessible to individuals with disabilities, as they may not have the same accommodations as in-person events.

Furthermore, online events can be less memorable than in-person events. The physical and emotional experiences of an in-person event can create lasting memories for attendees. In contrast, virtual events can feel less tangible and may not leave as strong of an impression.

Moreover, virtual conferences can be less cost-effective. While virtual events may have lower upfront costs, they can still be costly to produce and may not generate the same level of revenue as in-person events. Additionally, virtual events may not be able to fully replicate the same level of sponsorship and exhibiting opportunities as in-person events. Meaning it's best for your event strategy to pivot away from virtual and toward hybrid. 

Hybrid Events Are The Way To Go In 2023

Hybrid events, which blend virtual and in-person elements, are becoming increasingly popular in the event industry and for good reason. In 2023, hosting hybrid events can provide a number of benefits for event planners and attendees alike.

One benefit of hybrid events is that they allow for a wider audience reach and event participation. By incorporating virtual elements, event organizers can expand their event to include individuals who may not have been able to attend in person due to location, cost or other limitations. This can help increase engagement and participation, and allows for a more diverse group of attendees.

Another benefit of hybrid events is that they can provide more flexibility for attendees. By offering both in-person and virtual conference options, attendees can choose the format that best suits their needs and preferences. This can help increase attendance, event participation, and satisfaction among attendees.

Hybrid events can also provide more opportunities for engagement and interaction. By utilizing virtual platforms, event organizers can add interactive elements to the event such as live polls, Q&A sessions, and networking opportunities. This can help increase engagement and participation among attendees.

In addition, hybrid networking events can be more cost-effective than traditional in-person events. By incorporating virtual elements, event organizers can save on costs such as venue rental, catering and travel expenses. This can help increase attendance and participation among attendees through on-demand viewing of event keynotes and speakers. 

Furthermore, hybrid events can provide more opportunities for data collection and analysis. By utilizing virtual platforms and social media channels, organizers can gather data on attendance, engagement and participation. This can help event organizers better understand their audience and improve their events in the future.

Moreover, hybrid events can provide a unique and memorable experience for attendees. By incorporating virtual and in-person elements, event producers can create a unique and memorable experience for attendees. This can help increase attendance and participation among attendees and should be considered for your networking event strategy going forward.

The Lasting Impact of The Covid Era on Conferences and Live Events

The event planning industry has undergone significant changes since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, with event planning technology playing a critical role in these changes. One of the most notable changes has been the increased use of digital ticketing and event kiosk registration.

Digital ticketing has become increasingly popular as a way to reduce contact and promote social distancing at events. Rather than purchasing tickets in person or through the mail, attendees can now purchase tickets electronically through an event website or through a mobile device. This not only reduces the need for physical contact, but it also makes the ticket purchasing process more convenient and efficient for attendees. Additionally, digital ticketing also reduces the risk of lost or stolen tickets, and makes it easy for organizers to track attendance and manage ticket sales.

Event kiosk registration is another technology that has gained popularity during the pandemic. Event kiosks are self-service stations that allow attendees to check-in, register, or make payments without the need for human interaction. This technology can be used to reduce contact at events, as well as to speed up the check-in process and improve the overall attendee experience. Event kiosks can also be used to collect data on attendees, such as their contact information and dietary restrictions, which can be useful for organizers.

In addition to digital ticketing and event kiosk registration, there has been a move toward technology that reduces the need for time and contact. For example, many events now use virtual waiting lines, which allow attendees to join a virtual queue rather than waiting in a physical line. This can help reduce the need for contact and improve the attendee experience. Additionally, many events now use contactless payment options, such as QR codes or mobile wallets, to reduce the need for physical contact during transactions.

Furthermore, virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) technology have been utilized to bring the events to the attendees in a more interactive way. These technologies provide an immersive experience to the attendees, which can be a great way to attract a wider audience.

Ditch Virtual Events in 2023, Plan With Choose 2 Rent

As we move into 2023, it's clear that the event industry is beginning to return to in-person conferences and events. After 2 years of online events, the need for personal connections, engagement, and interaction is stronger than ever. At Choose 2 Rent, we are excited to be a part of this return to in-person events and are proud to offer a wide range of event equipment rentals to help make them a success.

As an international leader with locations in Europe and North America, Choose 2 Rent offers a wide range of products to meet the needs of any event, no matter the location. We have everything you need to make your event a success. Our team of experts is dedicated to providing top-notch customer service and working with you to ensure everything runs smoothly.

In addition to our wide range of electronic equipment rentals, Choose 2 Rent is committed to being a responsible and sustainable company. We take great care to ensure our equipment is well-maintained and up-to-date, and we prioritize environmentally-friendly practices in all of our operations.

As we ditch online meetings and return to in-person events in 2023, Choose 2 Rent is excited to be a part of the event industry's resurgence. With our wide range of products and commitment to customer service and sustainability, we are ready to help make your event a success. Whether you're planning a conference, trade show or any other type of upcoming event, Choose 2 Rent is here to help. We look forward to working with you to create an unforgettable event experience. Contact us today!