As we close off on 2019, the events industry is abuzz with excitement in anticipation of what the upcoming year has in store.
Going into 2020, technology is expected to play a stronger role than ever within the events space. From a marketing and visibility perspective, this is one of the greatest assets we have at our disposal and if harnessed properly, it can be the most cost-effective and impactful channel of communication with our audiences that we can have in terms of immediacy and reach.
Technology will also continue to improve efficiency when it comes to both automation and networking – automated systems mean faster turnaround times, which is particularly beneficial when managing large crowds. The Internet of Things has also meant ease of access to two of the key factors driving event attendance and that is information and people.
Adoption of paperless systems, meanwhile, has provided the added benefit of minimising waste, with material such as brochures, programmes and catalogues all going digital or moving online. Waste management, amongst other aspects of greening and eco-friendly practices, is receiving much more attention within the events space, which historically has been noted as being hugely intensive on both resources and waste. However, with climate change leaving the sustainability of our profits, people and planet hanging finely in the balance, events are also becoming an important platform for driving this discussion