Meetings Gone Virtual
Like most of the events world, Soundings Connect has been leaning on digital platforms that are designed to bring people together virtually. While we’re unable to meet in person, online tools give us the opportunity to create web-based experiences that help us build and maintain professional relationships and communities, especially as we pivot in response to rapid changes in business.
While we don’t think virtual events will ever replace the value of face-to-face events, the COVID-19 global health crisis has proven the need for virtual events and a future that includes hybrid events.
There are many virtual event platforms to choose from. When planning a virtual or hybrid event there are many things to take into consideration. What is the purpose of the event? How many attendees? Who is the audience? Do you need self-service or full-service support?
We’ve compiled a list of some of the virtual event platforms and services the team at Soundings Connect recommends for your next virtual meeting or webinar.
Zoom | Self Service
Zoom is perhaps the most widely used tech platform available, and it offers options for businesses and organizations seeking to host large virtual meetings, webinars or live streaming events. Zoom is a versatile tool that can be used for small team meetings or scaled up to large video sessions with up to 10,000 attendees. Zoom’s platform comes with built-in tools for attendee engagement including breakout rooms for meetings, chat boxes, polling and Q&A options.
By now, millions of users have become familiar with the Zoom interface and organizations can add on options to utilize the platform for creative virtual meetings. Zoom is equipped with integration capabilities with CRM systems like Salesforce, Marketo, Hubspot and payment sites like PayPal.
Digitell l Full-Service
The Digitell platform offers users access to a variety of automated processes associated with virtual events. Organizations and businesses use this platform to give attendees easy access to customized event pages including registration sites, speaker bios and post events evaluations while hosts have session data, reporting and analytics.
Users of the Digitell can use the platform to test devices before virtual events go live and will have access to live tech support throughout the event. This platform covers all of the bases which makes it easy for registrants to access session information, attend virtual events and engage with communities from the convenience of the Digitell platform.
Intrado Webcast Essential & Webcast Pro l Self-Service + Full-Service
Intrado’s Webcast Essential tool is a great self-service solution for interactive events. This tool makes it easy for users to execute every aspect of webcasts including branding, registration and invitations all from a simple module. Webcast Essential is designed to support a range of events, from small scale attendance up to 30K participants. The tech behind Webcast Essential is what makes this cloud-based tool one of the most user-friendly options available.
Webcast Pro offers a wide range of capabilities for webinars and webcasting. Like Webcast Essential, Webcast Pro can be self-service or users can opt for professional event support for multiple webinars and concurring registration sites. Webcast Pro doesn’t require software or hardware installation and can be used from any device. This tool makes registration, data tracking, email communication and attendee participation seamless and easy. With incredible versatility and flexibility, Webcast Pro is powerful enough to make hosting large scale events manageable and memorable.
PSAV l Full-Service
PSAV offers a comprehensive range of meeting and event services to support virtual and hybrid events including virtual event platforms, event apps, high-def event video conferencing, event recording or on-demand live streaming. Many organizations trust PSAV to support their virtual and hybrid events because they have been executing their live events for years.
PSAV provides customized virtual event solutions, which include finding solutions for navigating virtual and hybrid event technology. Event platforms offer a wide range of digital solutions for attendee registration, engagement and feedback, but in order to get the most out of the technology, organizations often need the support of experienced event professionals who can help increase the ROI of virtual and hybrid events.
These are just a few of the platforms our freelance virtual event planners, virtual event consultants, and webcast producers can assist you with. Learn more about our virtual event freelancers here. Schedule a 30 minute free consultation to speak further about the platform we think is best for your needs.