What to Look For in a Mobile App Solution Provider
September 20, 2015
There are likely hundreds of conference directory mobile apps on the market.
While making apples-to-apples comparisons of these products should include a close examination of the price ranges, feature sets, and value propositions, there is another element to consider heavily during the purchasing process: the provider.
Responsiveness
When there are lots of choices (in any industry), products sometimes start to look the same and buyers look for ways to narrow down the field. Excellent customer service, immediate and helpful responses (not just automatically generated emails), and a genuinely positive customer experience—even during the “getting to know you” stage—should be taken into consideration.
Platform approach
Another way to put mobile technology into perspective is to look at whether the product is a standalone application or part of a larger ecosystem of related applications. While there are advantages and disadvantages to both categories, mobile apps that are part of a platform communicate, synchronize, and update more easily than standalone apps that integrate (through APIs) with other non-related apps.
Single Point of Contact
Implementing a mobile app for the first time can be a big step for some trade show organizers. Having a single individual on the supplier side to manage the project from end to end can help make the process smoother for event producers. It can also help ensure that the app is ready for deployment and an appropriate reflection of the event brand.
Advanced technology
Mobile conference-directory apps are constantly evolving. Although making sure that an app developer is using the most advanced approaches for pushing messages, caching data, wayfinding, geolocation, and other functions requires research, it should be a strong consideration when choosing a solution provider.
Proven deployment process
Part of the deployment process involves introducing the app to attendees and exhibitors and providing them with instructions on how to download and use it. Developers with an organized process, support materials, and a pre-developed marketing campaign can greatly enhance app adoption and relieve organizers of the burden of creating marketing materials.
Operating systems
While most conference-directory app developers can accommodate multiple smart-device operating systems—iOS, Android, Windows, BlackBerry (government attendees still use it)—it’s a question worth asking. And the question should be how the developer does the accommodation (native app or mobile web) and whether those methods are suitable for your audience and venue.
Stability
As with any product purchase, it’s important to consider the stability of the company. With so many solution providers in the field, a long history in the event industry, a strong portfolio of clients, and an established reputation for quality products and service can be deciding factors.
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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