Corbin Ball is an international consultant and speaker on all subjects event-technology related. Here he shares his insight with Exhibition World.
Like in most industries, web-based software and mobile software – also web-based – are streamlining most data management points and fundamentally changing how we do business. To name a few:
1. Social media is being used to promote events, build the buzz, engage clients before during and after the event. Facebook, Twitter, Scvngr, Foursquare, YouTube and many more are used for this.
2. Traditional lead retrieval models will eventually be replaced by a variety of new, emerging technologies. Instead of one-way, booth-bound contact exchange it will be accessible to all. Options include card-scanning apps, QR codes, Near Field Recognition and many more.
3. The hassle of dealing with the exhibition service desk to order services or find you freight, for example, will be made much easier with mobile apps such as Freemans Concierge.
4. Mobile apps will assist wayfinding throughout a hall and a facility.
5. Augmented reality will play a role in wayfinding and info exchange.
The web is a global phenomenon. The key for events is to have easy access to wireless broadband signal. Countries around the world are understanding this and building accordingly.
Once the wireless infrastructure is built, the key factor is mindset. There are many tools available now, and they are easy to use. The development tools are richer and easier to use than ever before. The biggest obstacle is human resistance to change. Things are changing rapidly and there is a great need for technology education. Sometimes, the high-end decision-makers just don’t get it.
Most modern cultures recognise the importance of business exchange and trade. Meetings and tradeshows are about bringing people together, and this helps in increasing understanding of cultures. It is certainly important to be respectful of culture, but the desire for people to come together for business exchange will often soften the differences.
Any comments? Email exhibitionworld@mashmedia.net
