In recent years, the events industry has undergone a significant transformation, driven by technological advancements and artificial intelligence. From saving time for event managers to enhancing attendee experiences, AI is proving to be a game-changer for event professionals worldwide. But in an industry that relies so heavily on human interactions and experiences, it can be difficult to determine how to use AI without losing that human touch. Below are a few ways event professionals are using AI to enhance their events and experiences, and steps you can take to start using AI in your own organisation.
How AI is Used in the Events Industry
Chatbots / assistants
Chatbots powered by AI are becoming increasingly popular for handling attendee inquiries, providing real-time assistance, and automating routine tasks such as registration and ticketing. Virtual assistants can enhance attendee engagement by delivering personalised recommendations, answering questions, and facilitating networking opportunities.
However, be cautious when deciding what information to communicate using chatbots. Air Canada was recently forced to uphold a fake refund policy that its AI chatbot made up and communicated to a customer, causing the company to remove its chat bot altogether. To avoid issues like this, stick to routine information that is easily accessible when using chatbots.
Automated Content Generation
AI-driven content generation tools can automate the creation of promotional materials, event agendas, speaker bios, and social media posts. By leveraging tools such as ChatGPT and other natural language processing tools, event professionals can generate high-quality content efficiently, freeing up time for strategic planning and other creative tasks.
AI can also be a great tool for idea generation and visual inspiration by using AI image generation technology such as DALL-E. However, these tools should be used sparingly when communicating event information to attendees to avoid expectations not matching the real event. A recent event in Glasgow received international attention after promising an immersive Willy Wonka experience to its guests and delivering a disappointing event featuring a few props and actors in what appears to be an empty warehouse. The event was promoted using AI images that promised a beautiful, immersive event, and attendees were sorely disappointed by the results.
Interactive and personalised experiences
AI technology can be used to enhance the attendee experience by providing interactive and personalised content at events. Interactive art installations can incorporate AI and respond in real time to attendee input or engagement. AI-powered gaming zones that adapt to individual player behaviour and skill level can help ensure all guests are enjoying the event. Each AI experience can be tailored to the overall theme and objectives of the event to create truly unique experiences.
Language Translation and Interpretation
AI-driven language translation and interpretation tools can facilitate multilingual events by providing real-time translation of spoken or written content. By leveraging natural language processing and machine translation tools, event organisers can overcome language barriers and ensure that all attendees can fully participate and engage regardless of the language they speak. This is especially for virtual and hybrid events that can reach a larger international audience.
Facial recognition technology
Facial recognition technology powered by AI can streamline the check-in process, enhance security, and provide valuable insights into attendee demographics and behaviour. Facial recognition can also be used for things like sending photos to attendees after an event has ended. Tools such as EventPix allow attendees to upload a selfie and receive any photos taken of them in real time. These tools save time and help guests avoid sifting through hundreds of event photos to find their own. By streamlining this process, guests are more likely to share the photos, increasing exposure for the event.
By incorporating these creative AI-powered tools and experiences into events, event professionals can elevate the attendee experience, foster engagement, and create memorable moments that leave a lasting impression. Embracing the intersection of AI and experiential design opens up endless possibilities for innovation and excitement in the events industry.
Getting Started with AI in Events
For event professionals looking to harness the power of AI, here are some practical steps to get started:
Identify Pain Points and Objectives
Begin by identifying specific challenges or areas where AI could potentially improve efficiency, enhance attendee experiences, or drive business outcomes. Whether it's streamlining registration processes, optimising event scheduling, or improving marketing ROI, clarifying your objectives will guide your AI implementation strategy.
Evaluate AI Solutions
Research and evaluate AI solutions tailored to the events industry, considering factors such as functionality, ease of integration, scalability, and cost-effectiveness. Look for reputable vendors with a proven track record and consider leveraging AI platforms that offer customisable features to align with your specific requirements.
Start Small and Make Adjustments
Rather than attempting to implement AI across all aspects of your events at once, start with small-scale pilots or proof-of-concept projects to test the waters. By focusing on specific aspects of your event process, you can assess the impact of AI on performance, user satisfaction, and ROI before investing in additional AI solutions.
Invest in Training and Talent
Building AI capabilities within your organisation requires investing in training programs and upskilling existing staff or hiring talent with expertise in data science, machine learning, and AI technologies. By fostering a culture of innovation and continuous learning, you can empower your team to leverage AI effectively and drive organisational growth.
Monitor Performance and Adapt
Once you’ve begun using AI solutions, closely monitor their performance, gather feedback from stakeholders, and make changes based on insights and lessons learned. Continuously refine your AI models, algorithms, and workflows to ensure you are satisfying evolving business needs and keeping up with industry trends.
Avoid Over-reliance on Technology
While AI can automate tasks and streamline processes, it's essential to maintain a human touch and prioritise human-centric design principles. Avoid over-reliance on technology at the expense of personal interactions and human creativity, as genuine connections and experiences are fundamental to the success of events.
Want to work directly with an accomplished event management and experiential marketing agency? VEE Agency is an industry leader in creating engaging, effective campaigns. Reach out to us at howdy@veeagency.com.au to discuss your next project.