28 Mar trends in event management – what’s hot and what’s not
in the dynamic world of event management, staying ahead of the trends is essential. as the industry continues to evolve and develop, so do the preferences and expectations of attendees. Whether you are planning a conference, incentive, or charity gala, understanding, and leveraging current trends can create the difference between a mediocre event, and a memorable experience for attendees. in this blog we explore what are event trends, what are the trends in event management at present, and how technology has changed the event industry.
what are event trends?
event trends are patterns or shifts in the way events are planned, organised, and executed. these trends are influenced by multiple factors such as changes in technology, differences in consumer behaviour, cultural influences, and industry innovations. trends are constantly evolving, and event planners must stay informed to meet the changing requirements and expectations of their targeted audience. by embracing current trends, event organisers can create memorable and impactful experiences that resonate with attendees long after the event has ended. keeping up with event trends is therefore essential for event planners and organisers to stay relevant, attract attendees, and create memorable experiences.
what are the trends in event management?
sustainable events: with increasing environmental consciousness, sustainability has become a hot topic in event planning. from reducing waste to using eco-friendly materials, event organisers are prioritising sustainability in many aspects of their operation. this includes everything from venue selection to catering choices.
virtual and hybrid events: the pandemic accelerated the endorsement of virtual and hybrid events, and they’re here to stay. the virtual aspect of an event offers increased flexibility, accessibility, and is cost-effect, allowing organisers to reach a wider audience while ensuring safety and convenience.
immersive experiences: attendees want immersive experiences that capture all senses. whether it’s through interactive installations, virtual reality, or multisensory storytelling, event planners are focusing on creating moments that leave a lasting impression.
personalization: customisation is key in today’s events as attendees expect personalised experiences tailored to their own interests and preferences. event organisers are utilising data analytics and technology to deliver targeted content, networking opportunities, and thought-out agendas.
diversity and inclusion: diversity and inclusion are no longer options and instead, they are vital for creating welcoming and inclusive event environments. event managers are actively finding ways to promote diversity among attendees, as well as implementing inclusive policies and practices throughout the planning process.
as an event planner, what should you avoid?
repetitive events: one-size-fits-all approaches are becoming obsolete. Attendees are looking for authentic experiences, and generic events no longer cut it. event planners need to think outside the box and inject creativity into every aspect of their event.
overly formal settings: the trend towards more relaxed and casual event settings is becoming increasingly popular. formality is giving way to authenticity and inclusivity, with attendees preferring environments where they can network comfortably, and be themselves.
static content delivery: passive lectures and tedious presentations are losing their appeal. attendees expect dynamic and interactive content that stimulates their minds and creates meaningful conversations. event planners must take on innovative formats and delivery methods to keep attendees engaged.
ignoring diversity and inclusion: in today’s diverse world, inclusivity is non-negotiable. events that fail to embrace diversity risk alienating attendees and damaging their reputation. event planners must prioritise diversity and inclusion in every aspect of event planning, from speaker selection to venue accessibility.
ignoring health and safety: in the wake of the pandemic, health and safety concerns remain paramount. ignoring these aspects can result in disastrous consequences for both attendees and organisers. event planners must implement secure health and safety protocols and remain vigilant about monitoring and adapting to changing circumstances.
how has technology changed the event industry?
technology has revolutionised the event industry in numerous ways, lying at the heart of evolving event trends. enhancing efficiency, improving attendee experiences, and expanding the reach of events. some key ways technology has transformed event management includes the introduction of: software such as registration management systems, live streaming and on-demand content, and social media and influencer marketing. by embracing digital solutions such as event apps, online ticketing platforms, and data analytics tools, planners can streamline operations and enhance attendee engagement.
in conclusion, the event management world is continually evolving, driven by shifting consumer preferences, technological advancements, and industry innovations. by staying up to date with current trends and embracing agile management practices whilst utilising the power of technology, event planners can create memorable and impactful experiences that resonate with attendees long after the event has taken place.