Five Elements Your Event Website Absolutely Needs to Succeed in 2015

November 2, 2014

1. Responsive Design
With smartphones topping 70% penetration and tablets inching toward the 50% mark (Source: http://www.nielsen.com/us/en/insights/reports/2014/shifts-in-viewing-the-cross-platform-report-q2-2014.html), the predictions made in 2013 have come to fruition this year. While this year, website visitors have shown some tolerance for not getting responsive content as webmasters transition to responsive technology, by 2015 they would be ready to abandon any website that does not fit into the screen of their small device and still function as well as it would on a wide screen monitor.
 

2. Zero Flash Plugins
Recently, Google has started posting a warning on smartphone searches that certain Flash-heavy search results probably won’t work on a mobile device. In addition the primary link may even be deactivated. In light of this, and keeping in mind the all-pervasive nature of mobile technology, it’s best to steer away from Flash or other interactive content that requires custom plug downloads.
 

3. Videos
According to Neilsen, Q2 2014 witnessed 52% growth in digital video viewing.  Since videos are the epitome of online interactive experience, ensuring that your audience is served entertaining and informative video content should be an important part of your promotional strategy for your next event.
 

4. Real-time Sync
One of the highlights of the Neilsen report quoted above is that there is a tremendous amount of fragmentation in terms of the devices on which content is consumed. Your attendees may start the search process on the event website using a web browser on a PC and then wish to download their personalized planner right away on their mobile device. Ensuring that your technology solution provides updated information consistently irrespective of the delivery platform will keep demanding audiences engaged and happy.
 

5. Search Engine Optimized
White hat SEO will continue to be a key driver of web search ranking and traffic growth next year. Work with your webmaster to confirm that your website follows rules and policies established by popular search engines to ensure the long-term success of the investment in your web branding.  

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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