Global trends in event planning
The event planning landscape is undergoing a profound shift. Driven by advances in technology, changing attendee expectations, and an increased focus on sustainability, these global trends are reshaping the way we plan, manage, and execute events.
At Dovetail we are incorporating global best practice and trends into our events strategies (and yes, events need proper strategy behind them). Here we look at some of them, and how they impact your attendees' experience and engagement.
Hybrid and virtual Events
We may be tired of the words “hybrid” and “virtual” given our experience of the last few years, however it’s undeniable that the “Great Pause” has propelled the events industry into the digital age. While physical events will always hold a unique appeal, the benefits of virtual and hybrid events – such as broadened reach, increased accessibility, and cost efficiency – are becoming increasingly apparent.
Some events are going fully virtual such as Beyond Blue’s Be You event, whilst events such as Green Building Council’s TRANSFORM conference will be a hybrid event in 2024, combining an in-person 2 day conference with livestreaming as well as online content.
Even venues are embracing the trend, scaling up to provide hybrid facilities for corporate and other events. An example is the Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA) in Sydney which offers event space with iconic views of Circular Quay and the Opera House, coupled with state of the art technology allowing live streaming.
Sustainable event planning
As societal awareness of environmental issues grows, event planners worldwide are embracing sustainable practices. Minimising waste, sourcing locally, and utilising eco-friendly materials are becoming standard practices. A simple change like replacing conference giveaways with sustainable alternatives can be impactful.
HSBC, the Principal Environment Partner of the Royal Botanic and Domain Trust, recently put their money where their mouth is and hosted a “zero waste” gala dinner at Calyx restaurant. Curated by sustainable chef Matt Stone, the entire event centred around a menu designed to have minimal environmental impact. No single use plastics (not even cling wrap in the kitchen), sustainable ingredients (including crickets!) and organic centrepieces made with vegetables all contributed to a memorable event.
Technology integration
From mobile event apps to AI chatbots, technology is transforming the attendee and event sponsors’ experience. It's enabling seamless registration processes, facilitating networking, and providing interactive experiences.
QODE is one of Australia's leading technology and innovation events. In addition to the physical conference, QODE uses several advanced tech solutions to enhance attendee experiences. The event employed an AI-powered matchmaking tool that recommended tailored networking opportunities to attendees based on their profile and preferences, creating a more personalised and productive event experience.
To facilitate broader accessibility, they offered live streaming of keynote presentations and panel discussions. The event's adept use of technology sets a benchmark for future events, demonstrating how the integration of advanced tech solutions can amplify an event's impact and reach.
On a smaller scale, events like TEDx Sydney have harnessed the power of event apps to facilitate networking and enhance attendee engagement.
Entertainment, wellness and mindfulness
In the fast-paced world we inhabit, events offering avenues for entertainment, mindfulness, and wellness are gaining popularity. These elements help create more engaging, enjoyable, and holistic experiences for attendees, enhancing the overall event value. Attendees appreciate things like breakout rooms, mindfulness sessions, chill rooms, options for exercise sessions, and even live music during breaks at corporate conferences in order to entertain attendees with a “mental refreshment”.
“Not too long ago, the fascination has been all about Cyberspace, while I now see a strong trend as well as need to cultivate, nourish and explore the “Inner Space“, the understanding of the brain and how it absorbs, retains and communicates with the body and the world.”
With the increasing understanding of the crucial link between mental health and productivity, integrating entertainment, mindfulness, and wellness into events is no longer a novel trend but an essential component of modern event planning.
Personalisation and data
The one-size-fits-all approach to event planning is giving way to bespoke experiences tailored to individual attendees' needs and preferences. Personalised agendas, targeted networking opportunities, and customised content are fast becoming the norm.
We mentioned tech before - it plays an important role in personalisation. Apps like CVent help attendees to personalise their experience, interact via event communities and gather data for later use to inform future events based on peoples’ preferences.
As these global trends take hold in Australia and around the world, the role of the event planner is evolving.
“As event planners, we’re in the business of connecting people, not just in person, but also digitally, and in ways that truly matter.”
Successful event planning requires a fusion of creativity, technology savvy, and a data-driven approach. “The ultimate goal is to increase engagement with event attendees, whether it’s your staff, or your customers,” says Jackie. “Even smaller events can leverage these trends”
Dovetail Brand Engagement specialises in creating unique, customised conferences and events aligned to a company’s brand, goals and budget. We’ve organised conferences, incentive groups and events in Australia, New Zealand, Hawaii and South East Asia including, Singapore, Malaysia, Vietnam, Bali and the Phillipines. Find out more >