A hybrid event is also referred to as a blended event because it offers a mixture of both face to face meetings and virtual experiences all tied into one event. During one of these events the face to face, on site meetings are complemented with web viewing either live while the event is happening or through on demand, or both. One of the main reasons for this type of event is that it services more than one audience. The people that cannot physically attend the event can still be involved. In addition, those individuals who do attend the event can review any sessions that they may have missed while they were there.

The hybrid event is a great solution for those that are in difficult economic times and are facing travel restrictions and other budget cuts, yet have an increasing amount of pressure to produce positive ROI. One of the most cost effect ways to get your message out is through event webcasting. These events allow you to fill seats and find new revenue sources all at once.

Hybrid Events Can Help You Achieve Your Goals

The EMI (Event Marketing Institute) reports that 80% of executives that they surveyed state that their top priority is generating new revenue for their business. Over a third said generating new leads, increasing attendance at events, reducing costs, and increasing awareness are all top priorities as well.

Using hybrid events can play a key role in achieving each of these goals. As the economy has shifted emphasis from cost control to attendance and revenue growth, many organizations see that creating a hybrid event can increase the event attendance dramatically. These events also help leverage existing event investments as online audiences are engaged and content from the event can be easily archived and used for revenue generation as well as educational purposes. There are some hybrids or virtual events that have delivered higher learning scores and knowledge than the physical counterparts.

Best Practices For Hybrid Events

In order for a hybrid event to be successful an appropriate strategy must be in place. The first step is to clearly establish the objectives of the event. Some questions to consider when planning the event include: Is the goal of your organization to create incremental revenue or to cut costs? Are you attempting to better serve your customers or trying to expand your current audience?

The design of the event is extremely important as well. These events require just as much planning as a physical event. Relative content, session, and keynote speakers must be developed for the event. All of the team members for the event must be fully engaged from the start.

Overall, hybrid events are becoming more and more popular. This type of event is great for many types of businesses as it provides the chance to reach a much broader audience. It is a good idea to have a post event plan in place for after the event in order to further the events success.

What do you think of Hybrid Events? Do you use them?