Originally published on October 9, 2019. Updated on March 12, 2024.
Imagine this scenario: You’re gearing up to attend an event where, right from the start, you’re expected to juggle multiple electronic channels. It’s a situation many of us can relate to…
First, you have to visit the event website to register and check in. Then, there’s the event app you need to download to access the schedule. You’re asked to visit another website for a poll and submit a survey through a separate link. On top of that, there’s an app specifically for the tradeshow, and you need to connect through the event’s WiFi. Even for the most tech-savvy attendee, navigating through this array of event technology can quickly become overwhelming and draining.
Event organizers often burden attendees with the task of remembering which platform and medium to use for various event-related needs. When event tech isn’t thought out properly, this overload of technology can consume time and runs the risk of causing tech fatigue among attendees during the event. This fatigue can disengage participants or, worse, leave them frustrated.
But what exactly is tech fatigue? It’s when a user feels so inundated with technology choices that they either opt to do nothing or engage in a very limited capacity with the available options. Tech fatigue can manifest at both the company level, where there’s an overload of potential technology options to integrate into an event, and at the attendee level during the event itself.
How can you avoid tech fatigue?
For event planners, begin by listing and prioritizing the top three objectives you aim to achieve with your event technology. This approach will help steer you toward the event technology solutions that align with your primary goals, while avoiding unnecessary additions.
Moreover, when considering technology platforms, ensure you understand how they interconnect. The goal is to create a seamless user experience.
Consider making your mobile app the central hub for all event tech. A robust mobile app can seamlessly link users to other technologies without necessitating navigation away from the platform, or at the very least, make the transition feel like users are still within the app’s frame.
The top three takeaways to combat event tech fatigue:
- Thoughtfully choose your mobile app by asking pertinent questions and devising a plan early in the event planning process.
- Avoid trying to cover all bases. Select your tech solutions wisely. Do they align with your objectives?
- Initiate event tech planning from the outset rather than just before the event. Technology planned too late can appear patchy rather than seamlessly integrated.
Lastly, recognize when it’s time to seek professional assistance in planning your event technology. With a multitude of solutions and platforms available, evaluating them all can be overwhelming. Working with a consultant who has experience with various solutions can be immensely beneficial. They can guide you in asking the right questions and lead you toward the best solutions for your next event.
Next Steps
To learn more or to engage with Event Technology experts, contact us to get started. Already an M&IW customer? Contact your Customer Success Manager.
