A virtual event platform is a software tool with streaming audio and video capabilities to enable users to host interactive online experiences. Virtual event platforms have a suite of features to boost engagement for your event. Therefore, the platform you plan to use for your event should elevate the attendee experience and allow seamless engagements.

Here are the must-have features for a virtual event platform:

  • Attendee engagement features such as networking, gamification, surveys, Q&A, and meeting scheduling
  • Regisration landing pages
  • Ease of use
  • Exhibitors and sponsor booths
  • Reporting & analytics
  • Customize capabilities
  • Content delivery
  • Add-ons such as photobooth, social media wall, etc.

Just like in-person events, there is no one virtual event platform that fits all event types. There are multiple virtual event platforms available, and each fits specific needs and requirements. Make sure you have a platform that suits your virtual event needs.

To choose the best virtual event platform, you will first need to identify your event’s unique requirements. These requirements might include features such as customization, audience engagement, and registration, and look for a tool that provides all these requirements.

What is Critical to a Successful Virtual Event?

There are virtual event features that contribute to a successful event. These include:

1) Ease-of-use

The virtual event platform should be easy to navigate. Your attendees, speakers, and guests should find it easy to use the platform without any training.

2) Ability to Customize

When choosing a virtual event platform, make sure it offers the ability to allow a high level of customization. With a highly customizable virtual event platform, you can deliver an immersive experience that promotes your brand and event theme.

In addition to customizing the rooms and spaces, make sure other elements are customizable such as signs, flooring, grahics and avatars.

3) Engagement Features

Audience engagement is one of the top virtual event goals. However, facilitating the same amount of engagement as attendees have in an in-person event can be challenging. Therefore, you should choose an event platform that offers a variety of audience engagement tools.

The virtual platform should also have interactive spaces such as conference halls, panel discussions, exhibit zones, etc. It’s through these spaces where you can share content with your audience. Plus, highly visual interactive areas provide an immersive attendee experience.

4) Data Security

Make sure to choose a highly secure virtual event platform that protects your attendee data and information. With sophisticated security attacks on the rise, you should select virtual event software that’s compliant with regulatory requirements such as GDPR and CCPA. Other security features to consider include end-to-end encryption, password protection, real-time security monitoring, and access control options.

Every provider claims to be secure. The only way to validate is to have your IT team do a thorough security assessment or make sure the platform has 3rd party certifications such as ISO 27001.

Conclusion

Last year, when COVID-19 hit, attendees and sponsors were patient in accepting a less than perfect virtual event platform experience. However, in 2021, expectations are much higher. There has been an increase in both the quantity and quality of virtual event platforms available. Competitors have flooded the market with many tools, and the only way to deliver a positive conference experience is through a high-quality virtual event platform.

Communique Conferencing virtual event platform is ideal if you are looking to host successful virtual events. It’s packed with a variety of engagement features, networking opportunities and allows for customization.

Get in touch with us to see how our virtual event platform can help deliver successful events!