New to Event Tech? Here’s What You Need – and What You Don’t

Live events have made an incredible comeback in recent years. Have you attended one recently? You’ve probably noticed how technology plays an important role in managing the whole thing.

Since the pandemic, the Global Live Events market grew by nearly 54% (from 2020 to 2023). Last year’s Live Events Market Report projects an increase of $695 billion in the next few years, while market research company Technavio predicts a bigger jump of roughly $1,008 billion.

The forecasts may differ, but the common thread is the certainty that the live event industry will experience overwhelming growth.

Data from main players like Live Nation, Cineplex, Eventbrite, and Broadway Across America highlight the growing popularity of live events and the increasing reliance on technology to create smooth, engaging experiences. The majority of event professionals plan to integrate more technology into their events in 2025.

Whether hosting a conference, festival, or corporate gathering, understanding event tech basics is essential for ensuring everything runs seamlessly while enhancing the guest experience.

4 tech components to elevate your event

For those new to event technology, the good news is that you don’t need a full-blown, high-tech overhaul to see results. Instead, you can start small and scale as you become more comfortable.

1. Gone are the days of long lines and manual sign-ins. With digital ticket scanning and mobile check-in apps like TicketSpice and Vanco Events, you can streamline the entry process, reduce wait times, and create a more welcoming first impression. These systems often integrate with your event registration database, ensuring a smooth and secure experience for both guests and staff.
2. Next up is interactive event technology that boosts engagement during the event. Think along the lines of audience response systems, social media walls, and gamification apps that allow live feedback and interactive participation. For example, using a mobile app that lets attendees participate in polls or quizzes with live leaderboards not only keeps the energy high but also provides real-time data that can help you adjust your event flow on the fly. EventMobi lets organizers customize content, networking, and engagement, while Fliplet provides templates for digital event activities.
3. Analytics tools are another game changer. Event analytics platforms collect data on attendee behavior from check-in times and session participation to purchases and post-event feedback. Tracking these metrics with platforms like Cvent helps you see trends and measure the overall success of your event. By having a clearer picture of attendee engagement, you can better tailor your future offerings to meet their needs.
4. When it comes to purchases at the event, cashless payment systems and mobile ordering apps simplify the process for both vendors and guests. With these systems, attendees can quickly pay for food, merchandise, or even upgrade their event experiences without the hassle of carrying cash. Closed-loop cashless payment systems allow guests to top up a virtual account and wander the event using wristbands or event-specific cards or apps for purchases.

Bridging the gap: The rise of hybrid events

Hybrid events have become incredibly popular across the event tech landscape. A hybrid event combines the best of both worlds: an in-person experience and a robust virtual component. The challenge here is ensuring that virtual attendees feel just as involved and engaged as those who are physically present.

Technology should offer live-streaming capabilities, interactive chat functions, and virtual networking tools to achieve this.

Whether it’s using high-quality video streaming platforms or creating dedicated virtual rooms for Q&A sessions, the goal is to replicate the energy and interactivity of an in-person event. Hybrid events, which focus on equal yet separate delivery of a quality event, allow guests to enjoy and participate without the need to travel. It’s an excellent opportunity to increase your audience.

With a carefully planned hybrid strategy, you can expand your reach and offer a truly inclusive experience that caters to all audience segments.

The bottom line on the top gear

If this sounds like a lot, don’t worry — and don’t feel like you have to apply every component at once. At its core, event technology is about making life easier for your staff and your guests.

The goal is not to overcomplicate things or take the magic out of human interactions and face-to-face communication. Instead, it’s about using tech to handle the repetitive, logistical tasks so that your team can focus on creating memorable experiences. Don’t worry about tracking guests with Radio-Frequency Identification (à la Disney MagicBands) or using face-scanning robots just yet.

Research different apps and software, and contact the company that seems to fit your unique needs. Don’t be afraid to ask questions before you purchase anything, and make sure whatever you get improves the guest experience and doesn’t make it more confusing.

When used thoughtfully, technology can help reduce bottlenecks, provide valuable insights, and create an exciting atmosphere, all without detracting from the personal touch that makes live events so special. And as hybrid events become the new norm, establishing a balanced experience for both virtual and in-person attendees will be key to staying ahead in the ever-evolving world of event planning.

Remember that simplicity often leads to success.

Embrace the tech — but embrace it slowly and strategically — while never losing sight of the human connection.