New and Innovative Event Technology

In recent years, we have turned science fiction concepts into real, widely accessible technology. Using this technology when organising events is essential to keep up with trends and consumer wants.

Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) have taken the world by storm, and they’ve become increasingly popular in events. VR is commonly found in headsets where users are completely immersed in the software. This is slightly different from AR which adds filters and objects as an overlay of real-life images.

VR and AR can bring many benefits to an event, including:

• Higher audience engagement. Having VR at an event will create lasting memories for those who use it. By immersing users in a virtual platform, their vision, hearing, and spatial orientation are all stimulated which fully engages them. Adding to this a focus on a product or service, attendees will come away with a strong lasting impression.
• Increased sales. If attendees get to test out a product or service using VR, they are much more likely to then go and buy it. It is a great way to ‘try before you buy’ without losing out on the product or service itself.
• Reduced venue finding time. This is a huge benefit to busy event organisers who don’t have a lot of time to visit venues and carry out site inspections. VR tours of venues can allow organisers to get an overall view of the size of the venue, facilities, space, and suitability for their event.
• Event rendering. Using VR and AR, organisers can construct the event as it’s going to look in reality. Objects and décor can be added using AR and VR can be used to feel as if you’re there. This can help to adjust any décor and feel the atmosphere before the event is held.

Another piece of technology that has evolved in recent years is drones. Drones have been around for over a century, but they have only recently become technological enough to work alongside event organisers at events. They are commonly used for outdoor events, festivals, and shows and bring many benefits with them.

Uses of drones at events include:

• Photography. Drones are excellent at taking aerial and long-distance photos of events. They can capture great images and videos during the event that a normal photographer wouldn’t be able to. Drones are also more cost-effective than hiring a photographer. They can create 2D and 3D site maps before an event using special sensors, allowing attendees to familiarise themselves with the site before going.
• Visual shows. To create a visual show, drones can be fitted with LED lights and programmed to move together. These shows are most effective at night alongside some music. This creates a memorable experience for attendees and adds an extra element to an otherwise simpler event.

Get in touch if you’re interested in planning an event of any kind and would like to discuss ideas.