What are hybrid events?

Hybrid events: A definition

hybrid events or hybrid events are events that take place virtually as well as live and in person. Since, as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, we Platform for virtual events Of course, we also receive inquiries for hybrid events. The restrictions on the number of participants and expected easing make hybrid formats attractive for organizers. On the one hand, this allows the live character of an event to be retained while at the same time expanding the reach of the event. In addition, hybrid events currently have the advantage that they can cushion a further restriction of live events.

So we have to ask ourselves: What do hybrid events look like? Which factors are included? What do our customers understand by this and what is expected of us as a platform provider for hybrid events. Hybrid events have a virtual part and a share that takes place locally. There is a live audience and other viewers or visitors who follow hybrid events online and, depending on the concept, are also actively involved in them.

The most important component of hybrid formats is therefore the live stream. What happens live on site is recorded and streamed on an event landing page. The audience logs on to the event landing page and can follow and interact with on-site activities. For example, when specific questions from the auditorium are asked to a stage presentation, the participants connected online can also ask their questions to the presenters via chat. When audience sentiments are collected, they do not raise their hand, but click on an automated survey to participate. Even applause can be broadcasted from the virtual room.

Suitable formats for hybrid events

Some event formats are more suitable for hybrid events than others. For example, a virtual concert is rated by the audience as less equivalent to a live concert than, for example, a hybrid trade fair, a product presentation or a general meeting. In the B2B sector in particular, hybrid events can optimally complement live events, because the focus here is less on the live experience and more on reach, information content and network character. These are all factors that can also be implemented well in hybrid form.

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Case study:
A hybrid exhibition stand at MWC

At present, our customers are primarily hosting virtual and hybrid events as well as virtual and hybrid trade fairs.
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Hybrid events: The future?

We expect that hybrid events will prevail over the long term as event formats that optimally combine the advantages of virtual events and live events. This can only increase the range. Global participants are addressed and events are becoming more sustainable. Content can be distributed in a more targeted manner and follow-up is based on reliable data sets. With exciting and innovative hybrid events, companies and agencies can stand out from the crowd and leave a lasting impression.