The Rise of the Digital Platform: Hybrid and Virtual Events

During the pandemic, digital engagement became the norm. The way that we communicate, travel, and attend events has been forever changed. Email, video conferencing, phone calls, and messaging platforms have risen to the top of our modes of communication following the pandemic. In regards to travel, many frequent business travelers have said that they “will never return to the road.” In addition, in 2022, business travel’s share of hotel room revenue is expected to continue to drop.

Audiences have moved and adapted to digital platforms like Zoom or Microsoft Teams since 2020. During the beginning of the pandemic, 70% of physical events were switched to hybrid or virtual. Now, as we move towards a post-pandemic world, people’s dependence on these platforms has allowed 40% of events to remain virtual. 

Although digital platforms have been immensely helpful to people across the world, online interaction can bring fatigue and frustration. Employees using these services often experience technology issues, poor communication, loss of productivity, and connection problems. In addition, spending too much time on a screen can lead to alternative health issues.

However, despite these challenges, people continue to attend and organizations continue to hold virtual events. Many businesses are incorporating the benefits of online meetings and various trends in technology to create a more exciting experience for their employees. Hybrid events are one way to increase interest in the activity, as well as gamification or the use of the metaverse. 

Hybrid and virtual events are here to stay, creating the ultimate opportunity to offer a unique gathering experience to your business or organization.

The power of virtual events
Source: engagez.com