How Hybrid Events Ensure Audience Engagement
Introduction
Since the start of the decade, the events industry has undergone a major transformation, with hybrid events emerging as a powerful and necessary adaptation. Hybrid events blend in-person and virtual experiences, offering a versatile solution that caters to diverse audiences and circumstances. At the heart of this transformation lies livestreaming technology, a vital enabler that allows hybrid events to thrive.
<span class="text-color-accent">COVID provided the</span> pivot to hybrid events.
At the start of the COVID pandemic I saw my hitherto reliable work in the events industry very quickly dissolved. Initially all events were cancelled, including the holy grail of dependable events; weddings. Indeed, out of all the countless corporate and private events that would normally take place, only one type of event remained – funerals. However, this unlikely source became the inspiration for my development into hybrid events.
The key to this was livestreaming. At Bloomsbury Studios we invested in LiveU broadcast technology (something I had first discussed with Alias Hire in 2018). This enabled those unable to attend the funeral during COVID to pay their last respects online. By December 2020 this had elaborated into a two-way experience with mourners being patched in via Zoom to give readings and eulogies on big screens in the church. Everyone felt much more together.
At the same time hybrid events were evolving everywhere, breaking down geographical barriers, enabling people from around the world to participate in events without the need for travel. Livestreaming meant that anyone with an internet connection could access an event, ensuring inclusivity and expanding the event's reach. Since then, it has become a great way for event organizers to offer cost-effective options for attendance especially for those with limited budgets.
Livestreaming platforms also offer useful analytics and audience engagement insights. Event organizers can track viewer numbers, duration, peak interest, and gather comments in real-time. This data can help improve future events, ensuring hybrid experiences even more successful. Also livestreaming extends the lifespan of the content, as organizers can leave content online for participants to watch and revisit later.
I think we only need look at Apple Events to see how hybrid events have already evolved and now play an essential role in reaching the widest possible audience. As the world continues to evolve, hybrid events and livestreaming will remain essential tools for connecting communities, sharing knowledge, and fostering innovation across industries.
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Speaking & consulting
I have previously been a speaker at BNC Show, Bridelux and a guest lecturer at UEL and consulted for Erasmus, Borough of Camden and Access Creative book an online meeting.
