Emerging Technology for Meetings - Part 1

Much has been written about event technology. So much, in fact, that it’s easy to be overwhelmed by all the bright and shiny objects vying for your attention. Lost in all this is which technologies make the most sense for your meeting or event. 

This is the first in a series of four articles, the A-Z guide, that strives to help you understand the benefits of twenty-two different emerging event technologies and whether you should pay attention to them now or whether you can wait awhile until they’re ready for prime time. 

This list was compiled from reviewing hundreds of articles and blog posts in industry publications and through dozens of interviews with leading event tech thought leaders. 

Cost Key: $ (hundreds) $$ (thousands) $$$ (tens of thousands) $$$$ (hundreds of thousands)

Analytics: Defined as the discovery, interpretation, and communication of meaningful patterns in data. Analytics is not technology itself but is the fuel that drives the technology. Some call data, “The New Oil” because it’s what smart organizations run on these days. Analytics are the key to creating customized, personalized meeting experiences. Data flows throughout the entire meeting and event ecosystem so the applications are practically unlimited. 

What you need to know: Invest now in a deeper understanding of your attendees. Don’t obsess over privacy. We’ve given it up already. $$$

Useful Links: 
• www.cvent.com
• www.insights.vivastream.com
• www.attendify.com/product/audiences/
• http://bit.ly/2FbolR7 (HP Case Study)

Artificial Intelligence (AI): Defined as intelligence demonstrated by machines. AI is the most important general-purpose technology of our era. Its applications are also practically unlimited but with few exceptions, AI is not playing a significant role in meetings and events…yet. 

What you need to know: AI is “silent” technology. Eventually, it will power everything. $$$$

Audience Response Systems (ARS): Allows large groups of people to vote on a topic or answer a question. There are literally dozens of AR systems out there to choose from today. Among the most common applications: real-time discussions, feedback, interactive learning, attendance tracking/response, co-curation, assessment (Knowledge Checks). 

What you need to know: The user-experience (UX) is key. Shop around. Conduct your own UX testing. Use AR Systems more creatively. $$

Useful Links: 
• www.conferences.io
• www.clikapad.com

Augmented Reality (AR): Marries computer-generated images and reality (i.e., digital content on top of the real world). Among the most common applications: gaming, wayfinding, interactive signage, learning, site visits, scavenger hunts, marketing, promotion, etc. 

What you need to know: AR is already fairly mainstream but still 3-5 years away from widespread adoption. Consumer applications will drive wider adoption. Our applications will follow. Stick with the most practical applications for now. $$$

Useful Links: 
• www.youtube.com/watch?v=L6-KF0HPbS8
• www.youtube.com/watch?v=7NYwbS7e9M0

Biometrics: Technical term for body measurements and calculations like scans of finger or palm prints, palm veins, palm geometry, ear geometry, facial recognition, DNA, iris/retina scans, sweat pores, odor or scent. In terms of behavioral characteristics: typing rhythm, gait, voice, etc. Among the most common applications: identification and security 

What you need to know: Despite some practical applications, still 3-5 years away from widespread adoption. In many cases, accuracy needs to improve and costs will come down. Adopt biometrics strategically. $$$

Useful Link: 
• www.lightwave.io

Beacon Technology: Defined as transmitters that broadcast to nearby devices. Among the most common applications: wayfinding, push-messaging, check-in, networking, gamification. Practically unlimited. More interactivity and direct connectivity than QR Codes, NFC, Wi-Fi, less costly. 

What you need to know: This technology is ready today. Adopt it strategically. $$$. Tomorrow’s tech: Indoor Positioning Systems (IPS), which are more accurate (within inches vs. feet) are rapidly approaching. 

Useful Links: 
• www.eventbase.com 
• www.event2mobile.com
• www.crowdcompass.com/app-features/beacons.shtml

Check back next issue for reviews of more emerging event technologies.