Next Gen Event Planning

The expectations of attendees are changing the dynamics of events.  While there have been several reports claiming event planning as we know it is dead, we see it as more of an evolution. [Tweet "Event planning as we know it is dead... We see it as an evolution. #GovEventsBlog"]

To remain relevant and attract audiences, we need to listen to what they are telling us they need and want and then use the latest technologies and techniques to make that happen. Here's a quick list of new realities that should be shaping the way we plan events.

• Limited time and budget - We've written extensively about the impacts of travel and training budget cuts on federal events. Next Generation event planners are adapting to this new normal and creating smaller, more local events, and looking at opportunities to move content and networking online.[Tweet "Quick list of new realities shaping the way we plan events. #GovEventsBlog"]

• Automation - Attendees experience a high level of automation and customization in their daily lives--from curated news feeds, buying recommendations, to reminders for everything from paying bills to exercising. Events should look to meet this expectation by allowing attendees to build an agenda that suits them.[Tweet "Events should allow attendees to build an agenda that suits them. #GovEventsBlog"] Use technology to curate a suggested schedule based on their job and interests. No longer can event planners do the planning for everyone with a limited and static agenda, they need to give attendees options to build their ultimate learning environment within your event.

• Social experience - In-person networking is a key value for events. In a social media world, giving people the opportunity and even excuse to meet in person will continue to be a key reason people register and attend events. With that said, we do live in a social media world and people want to share their real-world experiences with the wider network. Make it easy for people to connect via social platforms by widely advertising handles and hashtags. Display the online chatter about your event onsite as well as online. Create opportunities for fun selfies and pictures that can go viral.

We'd love to hear from the planners out there. How have you changed how you plan events? What attendee expectations are shaping those changes?