In recent years, we have seen the event industry change dramatically. Partly because of Corona, the rise of technologies such as livestreaming, video conferencing and virtual platforms has gained momentum. This has made it possible to organize events entirely online. This has led to numerous benefits, including sustainability, lower costs and greater reach.
We are happy to share our knowledge and experience with you about making the right choice between a live, online or hybrid event.
What have we learned in recent years?
In recent years, we have learned that organizing events is no longer just about bringing people together physically, but that the purpose, medium and experience of the visitor are also very important. The rise of online events has led to numerous benefits, such as creating greater reach and a lower carbon footprint.
At the same time, there are also challenges associated with organizing online events. For example, it can be difficult to create interaction and engagement with participants who are in different locations. At The Productioneers, we have delivered more than 250+ online events since 2020, ranging from online neighborhood council meetings to climate conferences that required connecting high-level speakers from around the world.
An important consideration when choosing between a live event and an online event is the purpose of the event. What do you want to achieve with the event and what is the target audience? If the goal is to bring people together physically and create personal interaction, a live event may be the best choice. This may be the case, for example, with networking events, conferences and trade shows. If the goal is to convey information or reach a large audience, such as for a product launch or webinar, an online event may be the way to go.
Benefits of online events
Online events have several advantages over live events. One of the main advantages is that the reach can be much greater, as participants from all over the world can participate. Also, the barrier to participation is much lower. In addition, an online event offers the ability to record the event and watch it back, which is a big advantage for many people.
Also, the costs are often lower because there are no venue, catering and travel and accommodation costs for speakers and participants. All this often makes online events a whole lot more sustainable.
If you opt for an online event, it is important to make certain choices regarding the content program, the forms of interaction and the platform. In terms of program, it is important to take into account your target audience and interpretation of the program. In most cases, we recommend making the broadcast no longer than 5 quarters of an hour and ensuring sufficient variety. Next comes the question of what interaction you want with your target audience: can they just watch or do you want them to actively participate? For example, by asking questions to experts in the studio or answering poll questions.
After all these questions have been answered, it's time to choose a platform. There are now an awful lot of platforms available and it's important to choose the one that fits the purpose and audience of your event. Fortunately, we know quite a few and know exactly which platform is right for your event. Want to learn more about hosting a live stream or webinar? Follow our handy roadmap for a successful livestream.
In some cases, a hybrid event may be the best solution, combining a live event with an online component. Keep in mind, however, that a true hybrid event is not the same as livestreaming your event or inviting an audience into the studio. Read more about the difference between a live stream and a hybrid event in this article.
Live events
Although online events are becoming increasingly popular, live events also remain in demand. This is because live events can offer a unique atmosphere and experience that online events cannot match. Live events offer the opportunity to make personal connections and network, and can contribute to a sense of community and belonging. In addition, live events offer the opportunity to take advantage of the environment and location to give the event extra impact.
We always recommend thinking carefully about the purpose of the event before choosing between a live event and an online event. It is important to consider the opportunities and challenges of both options and ensure sufficient interaction and engagement with participants. It is also important to ensure a good technical infrastructure and a professional approach when organizing online events. With live events, it is important to consider logistics and visitor experience.
Opinion
Our advice is to always contact a professional event organizer who understands both live and online events when in doubt. They can help you make the right choice and organize a successful event. Whether you choose a live event, an online event or a hybrid event, The Productioneers is ready to help you organize and produce your event. We have extensive experience organizing events in a variety of industries and can take care of your event from start to finish, including coming up with concepts, arranging logistics and performing technical production. We work with a team of professionals who have expertise in various fields, such as directing, production, set design and technology. Through our years of experience, we know exactly what it takes to make your event a success.
In our work, we always strive to provide a unique experience for participants and achieve our clients' goals. We work with a personal approach and like to think with you about the best approach for your event. In addition, we are always up to date with the latest trends and developments in the field of events and technologies, so we can always provide your event with the latest and best possibilities.
Whether you choose a live event, an online event or a hybrid event, we are ready to work with you to create a successful event. Feel free to contact us to discuss what we can do for you. We would love to help you make the right choice and organize an unforgettable event!
We always recommend thinking carefully about the purpose of the event before choosing between a live event and an online event. It is important to consider the opportunities and challenges of both options and ensure sufficient interaction and engagement with participants. It is also important to ensure a good technical infrastructure and a professional approach when organizing online events. With live events, it is important to consider logistics and visitor experience.
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Ready to make your (online) event a success? Contact us today and find out how The Productioneers can unburden you and together we can create an unforgettable event.