Digital event formats: These are the 9 most important

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Digital event formats refer to the various types of online events that can be held using the internet and digital technologies.

These events can range from small webinars, corporate events and online workshops to large virtual conferences and trade fairs. The use of digital event formats has increased significantly in recent years as they are convenient, cost-effective and reach a global audience.

Online conferences offer the advantage of location-independent participation, are more cost-effective and reach a larger target group. Face-to-face conferences, on the other hand, offer a more personal experience, more direct interaction and a better networking experience. The choice of the right format ultimately depends on the objectives, budget and needs of the target group.

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What virtual formats are available?

The choice of format depends on who the event is aimed at. There are formats that are especially suitable for communication with employees, such as 

• Workshops
• Town Hall Meetings or 
• Virtual team events

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For external stakeholders, on the other hand, the following formats are suitable:

• Panel discussion
• Keynote
• (Press) conferences
• Virtual general meetings
• Trade fairs
• Roadshows
• virtual showroom
• Online webinars

Reading tip: Case Study - How Better Orange organized the first digital general meeting in Germany

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1) Webinar

Webinars are online presentations or seminars. They can be used for training, product demonstrations or other types of informative presentations. Webinars can be attended by a large number of people, but are usually more interactive than a pre-recorded video.  

Online webinars are a popular format, especially in event marketing, to generate leads and pass on content to a large audience: These can be presentations or talks that can be broadcast both live and on demand.

You can also share your own screen to focus more specifically on certain topics or integrate certain gamification tools.

Depending on the complexity, it may be advisable to use a virtual event platform instead of tools such as Zoom or Go To Webinar in order to be able to map registration, participant management and webinar within one tool. All-in-one software offers significantly more comprehensive options than pure webinar software.

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Reading tip: 

Online webinars - the tool for customer retention and reach

2) Virtual conference

Virtual conferences are online events that mimic the format of face-to-face conferences, with keynote speeches, group discussions and networking opportunities. They can be attended by a large number of people from around the world and are often organized around a specific topic or industry.  

They often bring together participants from many countries. These may be employees, customers or partners who need to be informed about new products and ideas. Such conferences facilitate exchange across national borders.

Conferences thrive on interactive elements and often have an inspiring character.

Manual tasks can be significantly reduced by using conferencing software . This leaves more time for the concept and other important tasks.

3) Live stream

In a livestream , content is broadcast to a wide audience on the Internet (one to many). Both live and on-demand content can be streamed.

The recordings can be made with a camera or in your own studio. There are no limits to professionalism.

A live streaming platform offers numerous interaction tools with which participants can interact with each other and with the speaker.

A livestream via the familiar social media channels is suitable for very simple events. As soon as you want to take a more holistic approach and focus on the participant experience, you should use an online event platform.

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4) Online workshops

Online workshops are similar to webinars, but are usually more hands-on and interactive. They can include breakout sessions, group discussions and other activities to engage participants. Online workshops can be a good option for training or education purposes.  

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5) Virtual trade fair

Trade fairs are events at which companies and organizations present their products or services to potential customers and partners.

An online trade fair connects exhibitors and visitors who are interested in a specific topic.

Virtual trade fairs are online events that recreate the experience of an in-person trade fair with virtual stands, product demonstrations and networking opportunities.

Compared to real trade fairs, digital trade fairs are often associated with lower costs, as no dedicated staff are required. Instead, however, the costs for the platform must be taken into account.

So far, participants have been able to move around the digital exhibition grounds with a mouse or log in using an avatar, for example. Augmented reality and virtual reality solutions are also popular with some organizers.

In the future, the metaverse will probably play a greater role in the implementation of virtual trade fairs.

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Reading tip: Event Trends 2022: The future of hybrid events

6) Networking events

Networking events are opportunities for professionals to meet and connect with each other. Virtual networking events can take many forms, such as online happy hours or speed networking sessions.

These events can be a great way to make new contacts or meet up with colleagues in a more informal setting.  

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7) Online training courses

Online training courses are designed to impart knowledge and are used to train employees in a resource-saving manner.

Individual participants can use training software to complete their courses regardless of time and location. Companies can issue automatic certificates and track employee participation.

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8) Online summits

Online summits are large-scale virtual events that bring together experts and thought leaders from a specific industry or sector. They often include several keynote speakers, panel discussions and breakout sessions that take place over several days.  

9) Hybrid events

Hybrid events combine in-person and online components, allowing attendees to choose the format that works best for them. For example, a conference can offer both in-person and virtual registration options, or some sessions can be held in person and others online.  

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How do you choose the right format?

The most suitable format depends, among other things, on the complexity, the number of participants and the target group.

For example, some event platforms have a participant limit for conferences, while livestreams can be organized more easily for a larger group of people without any technical losses.

Training courses are more suitable for internal stakeholders, while livestreams are more likely to be organized for external participants.

The role of interaction options such as live chat and surveys should be considered during concept development, as well as whether a moderator is needed to guide participants through the event and keep them coming back (e.g. through gamification).

Depending on the situation, it may make sense to organize a hybrid event instead of an online event. In this way, the advantages of both worlds can be used to create an unforgettable experience.

Conclusion

Digital event formats offer a number of advantages for organizations and participants.

They are convenient and cost-effective as they eliminate the need for travel and accommodation. They also allow organizations to reach a global audience and increase the number of attendees. Webcasts also offer participants the opportunity to engage with the speakers and other attendees through interactive features such as Q&A sessions and chat boxes.  

However, holding digital events also poses a number of challenges, such as the need for a reliable internet connection and the possibility of technical problems. However, with careful planning and the use of high-quality technology, these challenges can be overcome.  

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