It’s fair to say we’re still feeling the effects of the coronavirus pandemic. It left many industries on their knees, especially those that rely on bringing together groups of people. For the events industry it was been a particularly devastating time – but that’s where digital innovation offered a virtual lifeline for live events. Since March 2020, we’ve been seeing more and more brands and organisations turn to the digital space to hold events, from concerts to conferences – and with good reason.

Benefits that reach beyond the pandemic

These days, technology offers so much more than just video calling. Digital platforms can provide a dedicated portal for complex information and synchronised functionality that rivals that of a physical event all through a web browser, while immersive technology such as VR and AR experiences offer an alternative and interactive platform for anything from fashion to trade shows.

Meanwhile, live streaming and social media platforms also offer easily accessible and instantly engaging ways to connect to an audience and bring people together for events online. Used individually or together as a combination, digital platforms are creating a virtual alternative that means events can still go ahead despite the pandemic shutdown, whether it’s a university offering a virtual open day or Kylie hosting a live-stream concert.

In exploring these options, a lot of companies are discovering undeniable advantages. Digital platforms are:

• Cost-effective

• Reusable

• Easily scalable

• Creative and engaging

• Highly accessible

• Environmentally-friendly

• Data-driven for precise insights.

And, while previously these types of technology have been used to support an event or installation, now they’re forming the main event itself.

Understanding your options

With a host of tangible benefits, digital events are here for the long term. That’s why we’ve taken an in-depth look at how the live events industry is using digital technology today, the challenges of taking an event online and the key things you need to know before you get going in a dedicated white paper.