Making Informed Technology Decisions for Your Events
February 21, 2016
Powerful, cloud-based technology solutions, which are also cost-effective and fast to deploy, easily are available to show organizers in the events industry. If you currently are exploring technology options for your event, here are some tips on what to look out for and how to make an informed decision.
1. Appraise track record
When picking a technology vendor, check their long-term history and performance in the industry. Consider their market share and reputation before investing in a partnership with them. Select them for what they have delivered to other organizations in the recent past and not just by what they promise to provide you in the future. It’s important to not be swayed by flash-in-the-pan technology solutions.
2. Look for Innovation-oriented approach
Ask questions about the vendor’s long-term solution roadmap, as well as their coding and testing processes. Are they hosted on local, insecure servers or with leading cloud-based hosting services? Do they follow a Scrum-based agile software methodology or do they depend on ad hoc development? Properly tested product increments within short iterations can be critical to ensuring that your audience is supported on all the latest browsers, platforms and devices in the long run.
3. Request a demo
Do not go by hearsay or canned videos for making your tech decisions. Seek in-person, detailed demonstrations that highlight how the solution serves industry best practices, as well as your unique scenarios and processes. Look for depth and breadth in the features supported on a technology platform. Check what’s on offer against a list of all the tools and options that are high on your priority list. Ask about two-way integrations and reporting features.
4. Focus on audience engagement
Event planners, today, have one of the busiest jobs on earth. Small teams have to manage complicated logistics and resources at a pace faster than ever. They may not always be equipped to handle the education and support aspect of deploying new technology. In fact, the vendor may be in the best position to provide insights and even support audience engagement initiatives. If they service the digital marketing and promotional campaigns on your behalf, then that can take a major load off your shoulders while delivering extraordinary engagement from the get go.
5. Check testimonials and case studies
Last but not least, review what your peers in the industry are saying about the technology provider under consideration. Can they share reviews and testimonials from existing users? Do they have authentic case studies, conducting by independent reporters, to support their claims?
A careful review followed by a thoughtful decision making process will ensure that you pick a vendor who can be a long-term partner facilitating your success.
Partner Voices
Overview:
The award-winning Orange County Convention Center (OCCC) goes the extra mile to make every day extraordinary by offering customer service excellence and industry-leading partnerships. From their dedicated in-house Rigging team to their robust Exhibitor Services, The Center of Hospitality brings your imagination to life by helping you host unforgettable meetings and events. With more than 2 million square feet of exhibit space, world-class services and a dream destination, we are committed to making even the most ambitious conventions a reality.
In October 2023, the Orange County Board of County Commissioners voted to approve allocating Tourist Development Tax funding for the $560 million Phase 5A completion of the OCCC. The Convention Way Grand Concourse project will include enhancements to the North-South Building, featuring an additional 60,000 square feet of meeting space, an 80,000- square-foot ballroom and new entry to the North-South Building along Convention Way.
“We are thrilled to begin work on completing our North-South Building which will allow us to meet the growing needs of our clients,” said OCCC Executive Director Mark Tester. “As an economic driver for the community, this project will provide the Center with connectivity and meeting space to host more events and continue to infuse the local economy with new money and expanding business opportunities.”
Amenities:
The Center of Hospitality goes above and beyond by offering world-class customer service and industry-leading partnerships. From the largest convention center Wi-Fi network to custom LAN/WAN design, the Center takes pride in enhancing exhibitor and customer experience.
The OCCC is the exclusive provider of electricity (24-hour power at no additional cost), aerial rigging and lighting, water, natural gas and propane, compressed air, and cable TV services. Convenience
The Center is at the epicenter of the destination, with an abundance of hotels, restaurants, and attractions within walking distance. Pedestrian bridges connect both buildings to more than 5,200 rooms and is within a 15-minute drive from the Orlando International Airport. The convenience of the location goes hand-in-hand with top notch service to help meet an event’s every need.
Gold Key Members
The OCCC’s Gold Key Members represent the best of the best when it comes to exceptional service and exclusive benefits for clients, exhibitors and guests. The Center’s Gold Key memberships with Universal Orlando Resort, SeaWorld Orlando and Walt Disney World greatly enhance meeting planner and attendee experiences offering world-renowned venues, immersive experiences and creative resources for their events.
OCCC Events:
This fiscal year, the OCCC is projected to host 168 events, 1.7 million attendees, and $2.9 billion in economic impact.
The Center’s top five events during their 2022-2023 fiscal year included:
AAU Jr. National Volleyball Championships 2023
200,000 Attendees
$257 Million in Economic Impact
MEGACON 2023
160,000 Attendees
$205 Million in Economic Impact
Open Championship Series 2023
69,500 Attendees
$89 Million in Economic Impact
Sunshine Classic 2023
42,000 Attendees
$54 Million in Economic Impact
Premiere Orlando 2023
42,000 Attendees
$108 Million in Economic Impact
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