Although we cannot see into a crystal ball, we foresee two things that are very important
1. Health & safety for participants & guests during physical events
The key question here is how do you, as an event provider, fulfill your duty of care? In other words, how do you ensure that your guests or participants are safe and protected? Consider the 2-meter protocols, hygiene measures and meeting room set-up with half of the usual participants in a room as usual. Logistical details such as transport, charters, transfers and a selection of hotel or meeting accommodations for international guests. Should we start asking guests in advance whether they have specific wishes?
We have made a separate whitepaper on 'Duty of care' that we would like to share with you. As each event is tailor-made and unique and the speed with which measures (both locally and internationally) develop, consultation with your contact person at ATPI is necessary for the best plan.
2. Direction & insight into digital & hybrid event formats
We do not know how it is with you, but we have been hassled with online meeting apps in recent weeks. From Teams, Skype to Zoom - and much more. Logically, from schools to companies, everyone is looking for their way, it will be interesting to see which tools are left over. When the confinement measures gradually ease, there will be room to also explore hybrid event forms.
We are already working hard on this within ATPI. We are convinced that digital events will remain an important part, just like physical events, but that in the coming months there will be a mix between digital and physical events: hybrid events.
For example, it may be that at an international conference in November where guests from Europe will travel and “overseas” guests will follow online? Many styles and themes are also possible within online events.
From a simple Zoom or Skype meeting to custom online events, complete with a live launch, discussion or presentation in a studio with live speakers, make-up and direction. This makes a significant difference in terms of experience, format and costs. It also takes into account linked registration systems, back office reporting tools and possibly payment modules.
Actually, we can conclude that the events landscape will be more diverse after this crisis. Formats will coexist. It is to be expected that the end user – the guest – will want to sit in the "driver's seat" to determine which form he/she chooses. Tailor-made solutions, meaning that issues such as “guest management” are high on the agenda. Everyone is an exception in their own way. Think about it …
1. What trends do you see emerging in the post-corona era involving business events and business travel in your industry / field?
2. What are the consequences of the corona virus for your business- critical and social events in the short, medium and long term?
3. New technologies are developing rapidly. To what extent do you think these technologies or other event forms are also relevant to you?
4. Perhaps you have already come up with a new way or creative idea to organize traditional live meetings (or social events) differently? What idea(s) are you most proud of?
