Mitch Malinsky's recent CSAE talk unveiled key event tech trends for 2024. Amid rising expectations and constrained resources, technology emerges as a crucial ally for event planners. This blog explores three pivotal trends: the surge in artificial intelligence (AI), the importance of hybrid events, and the critical role of mobile event apps.
1. The Proliferation of Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Mitch emphasized that 2023 marked a pivotal year for the integration of artificial intelligence into event management, and 2024 is poised to witness even more significant advancements. AI solutions are expected to become more adept at their existing tasks, learn new functions, and decrease in cost.
How to Capitalize on AI in 2024:
- Utilize AI for Personalization: Use data to tailor event experiences to individual preferences, ensuring each attendee finds value and engagement.
- Implement Chatbots: Provide instant, automated responses to attendee queries, offering information and assistance in navigating the event.
- Leverage AI-driven Analytics: Analyze attendee behavior and feedback to generate insights that can be used to improve future events.
2. Bridging Physical & Virtual Realms with Hybrid Events
Contrary to the perception that hybrid events demand double the effort and cost, Mitch highlighted their anticipated upward trajectory in 2024. Hybrid events offer a broader reach, flexible participation options, and valuable data-driven insights.
How to Take Advantage of Hybrid Events in 2024:
- Explore Monetization Opportunities: Advances in hybrid event tech make it easier to offer content in various formats that can be monetized.
- Ensure Continued Engagement: Record and package live content for access in a year-round portal to sustain attendee interest.
- Maximize Sponsorship ROI: Hybrid events offer increased visibility and higher returns on investment for event sponsors.
3. Mobile Apps Becoming Mission Critical
Mobile event apps have evolved from being a 'nice to have' add-on to a must-have tool for successful events. The focus is on facilitating more personalized, interactive, and engaging experiences for attendees.
How to Take Advantage of Mobile Event Apps in 2024:
- Prioritize Personalization: Implement pre-built personalized agendas, real-time updates, and pre-scheduled networking opportunities to enhance the attendee experience.
- Drive Engagement: Capitalize on smarter matchmaking, meeting booking, social media integrations, gamification, and audience interaction to boost overall engagement.
- Boost Data & Analytics: Mobile apps can capture significantly more data about attendees and the event experience, providing valuable insights for future planning.
Wrap Up
Mitch's presentation highlighted the transformative power of artificial intelligence, the continued rise of hybrid events, and the mission-critical role of mobile apps in shaping the future of event planning. Event organizers and planners looking to stay ahead of the curve in 2024 should focus on integrating these insights into their strategies, leveraging technology to enhance personalization, engagement, and overall event success.
