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Almost 50% of Corporate Event Attendees Consider Hybrid Events the Ideal Format for the Future

Since 2020, the event industry migrated from in-person events to virtual events — speakers, event planners and companies had to scramble to adapt and pivot towards the adoption of better technology solutions to connect and interact with an online audience. Since 2021, in-person events began to shift back towards in-person events, with people expecting that the world might “normalize” and go back to way it was before. However, with the global COVID-19 pandemic experiencing a recent resurgence due to the Delta variant, the new normal means there will continue to be people who are reluctant, or are unable, to attend in-person events.

Almost 50% of corporate event attendees consider hybrid events the ideal format for the future, compared to exclusively in-person or virtual-only events, according to Metrigy Research. Businesses are embracing this new reality. In 2021, 64% of businesses say they’re increasing their virtual events, and 58% say they’re planning for a mix of virtual and in-person events.

To better meet everyone’s needs, the hybrid event model has become a very popular solution and is definitely here to stay.
But first, you must understand what a hybrid event is, and what it is not.

WHAT IS A HYBRID EVENT?
A hybrid event is a meeting or event with at least one group of
in-person participants connecting with remote participants in one or more different locations.

WHAT A HYBRID EVENT IS NOT
• A live streamed in-person event
• A live event with on-demand content
• An in-person event with a virtual add-on

Is a hybrid event right for you? Take a look at your audience needs and your objectives to make that determination. A hybrid event is highly personalized for both in-person and virtual audiences and is designed to drive action and exploration.

STEP 1: PREPARING FOR YOUR HYBRID EVENT

Determine your hybrid event configuration

Determine how big your event will be to assess how great the risk of spreading Covid-19 will be 

There’s nothing worse than to plan your event so carefully in advance only to encounter unexpected situations at the last moment. Since the pandemic, there are many more items to assess and prepare for when creating a large event to help keep people safe from the spread of Covid-19. By working with local and state officials in the initial planning stages and developing strategies for your event from beginning to end, you will ensure the health and safety of onsite staff and volunteers, your speakers and your audience.

Wishing everyone a Healthy and Happy May long 2021! 

1. Heritage Park Opening Weekend

Exciting outdoor-only experience awaiting you beginning May long weekend, including the brand new Prospect Ridge area – an exciting new addition that will take visitors on a journey through Western Canada’s energy past. The S.S. Moyie is back in the water and ready to welcome you starting May 22! All programming will be moved outdoors in and around the historical exhibits.

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