subject: Features of an Effective Event Management Tool [print this page] Features of an Effective Event Management Tool
From planning the venue to creating lists of speakers, to scheduling, to informing visitors about last-minute changes, so much of multi-tasking goes into preparing for a conference. As people organize more and more of their activities online, they are looking for electronic tools to help them manage these different activities. Not only does it get things more organized, it also cuts down on paper clutter. But the usual calendar, discussion forum, notification program, and electronic forms can only go this far in creating an effective event. For one thing, so many separate tools need to be maintained and updated that it can leave organizers quite in a tizzy as they rush about doing multiple things at the same time. The simplest way out could be to invest in an event management tool which allows all these activities to be done from a common platform.
The market has come up with several such tools and they all have some basic features. Here is a look at some features that help to streamline event management:
Maintaining and managing speaker lists: The run-up to a conference can be quite hectic as speaker lists need to be planned and sometimes shuffles are made in speaking order. These changes can be kept tidily organized and updated in an event management platform that everyone can access, making life easy for both the speakers and the organizers.
Keeping everyone in the loop: Even if you implement impeccable planning, it is very difficult to make changes at the last moment or when the show is running. With traditional forms of planning, it becomes difficult to keep everyone in the loop at the same time as updates happen. Electronic platforms can help reach word to everyone interested in the conference, and do it in real-time, enabling everyone to be on the same page when changes are made. Speaking of electronic platforms, around 60% of people in a recent survey in the US said that on the road, a cell phone is their most useful primary electronic device. Mobile apps development companies are taking advantage of this trend and coming up with nifty tools designed to streamline event planning.
Management during the conference: The most effective tools come with value-added features such as maps and locators that help delegates and visitors get about the conference venue. Some of them also allow visitors to take notes during a conference, offering a clean, green alternative to paper.
Networking and publicity: The best part about an electronic platform is that they allow organizers to connect effectively with the delegates and tap new audiences. It also offers a 360 degree view of the event as delegates and visitors can provide their feedback, interact, and hold discussions. In this age of word of mouth publicity, such interactions can create a buzz around the event and sustain interest before, during, and after the event.
Streamlined, green, allowing activities to be updated in real time with an array of powerful features such as these, it is no wonder that an electronic event management tool is becoming a must-have for organizers.
