Last updated on Dec 18, 2024

What are the most effective event technology tools for networking?

Networking is one of the most valuable aspects of attending events, whether in person or online. However, not all events are designed to facilitate meaningful connections and interactions among attendees, speakers, sponsors, and organizers. That's why event technology tools can play a vital role in enhancing the networking experience and creating opportunities for engagement, collaboration, and relationship building. In this article, we will explore some of the most effective event technology tools for networking and how they can help you achieve your event goals.

1 Event apps

Event apps are mobile applications that provide attendees with information, features, and functions related to a specific event. They can also be used as powerful networking tools, as they allow attendees to create profiles, browse and contact other participants, join groups and chats, schedule meetings, exchange digital business cards, and access social media integration. Event apps can also gamify the networking process by rewarding attendees for completing certain actions, such as scanning QR codes, visiting booths, or participating in polls and surveys. Event apps can increase attendee satisfaction, retention, and loyalty, as well as generate valuable data and feedback for event organizers.

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Matthijs Otto

Founder of Krowden.com (formerly NetworkTables) - helping attendees to meet the right people at in-person, virtual and always-on events that are community-led.
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In my experience Event Apps are only for 2-4 day events as otherwise the investment to download the app is too big for attendees. Also ideally it's not a good platform for networking pre-event or pre-scheduled meetings as people download the app too late. Most effective: chat, floorplan, notifications.

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2 Event platforms

Event platforms are online platforms that enable event organizers to create, host, and manage virtual or hybrid events. They can also offer various networking features, such as video conferencing, live chat, breakout rooms, Q&A sessions, and virtual booths. Event platforms can help attendees connect with each other and with speakers and sponsors, as well as access content and resources on demand. Event platforms can also facilitate networking before and after the event, by allowing attendees to register, create profiles, and join communities and forums. Event platforms can enhance the accessibility, reach, and impact of events, as well as reduce costs and environmental footprint.

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3 Event matchmaking

Event matchmaking is a process that uses algorithms, data, and artificial intelligence to match attendees with other attendees, speakers, or sponsors based on their preferences, interests, goals, and behavior. Event matchmaking can help attendees find the most relevant and valuable contacts and opportunities for networking, as well as personalize their event experience and agenda. Event matchmaking can also increase the quality and quantity of leads and conversions for speakers and sponsors, as well as improve the return on investment and satisfaction for event organizers.

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Matthijs Otto

Founder of Krowden.com (formerly NetworkTables) - helping attendees to meet the right people at in-person, virtual and always-on events that are community-led.
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In my opinion, people like to stay in charge themselves. So Matchmaking Algorithms can help define if someone is a good match for you. However this requires data entry by the attendee that is a potential conversion blocker. Topic Based Matchmaking doesn't require much data excepts a topic and keeps people in charge of whom they meet about what!

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4 Event analytics

Event analytics is a process that uses data, metrics, and insights to measure and evaluate the performance and outcomes of events. It can also be used as a networking tool, as it can help event organizers understand and optimize the networking behavior and preferences of attendees, speakers, and sponsors. Event analytics can help event organizers identify and segment their target audience, tailor their content and communication, track and improve their engagement and satisfaction, and demonstrate their value and impact. Event analytics can also help event organizers collect and analyze feedback and testimonials, as well as generate reports and recommendations for future events.

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5 Event badges

Event badges are physical or digital identifiers that display information about attendees, speakers, or sponsors at events. They can also be used as networking tools, as they can enable attendees to scan, share, and store contact details, as well as access additional information and resources. Event badges can also incorporate features such as NFC (near-field communication), RFID (radio-frequency identification), or QR codes, which can allow attendees to interact with each other and with the event environment, such as booths, kiosks, or screens. Event badges can improve the security, efficiency, and convenience of events, as well as create a sense of identity and belonging among attendees.

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Monica Wolyniec

MICE Events • Sales/Marketing • Ex-Hopin • 1x SaaS Exit
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Keep in mind the overall design and layout of the badge. The design shouldn't be so busy that the important info (like first name) isn't easy-to-read. Also, opt to do the printing onsite. It saves tons of time for everyone, and allows for a more hands-on experience (literally) for attendees if you have self-serve kiosks.

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6 Event networking tips

Event networking tools can help you enhance your event experience and achieve your networking goals, but they are not enough on their own. You should also have a clear networking strategy, a positive attitude, and a proactive approach. Before the event, set your objectives and expectations, and research the event agenda, speakers, and attendees. Update and optimize your profile on the event app or platform with keywords, hashtags, and images to showcase your skills, interests, and personality. Use the matchmaking feature to find compatible contacts, send personalized messages and invitations, join groups and chats, participate in discussions and polls, and share your opinions. Track and measure your networking activities with the analytics feature to identify areas for improvement. Scan and exchange contact details with the badges feature. After the event, follow up with your new contacts to maintain relationships until the next event.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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What are the most effective event technology tools for networking?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Event apps

2 Event platforms

3 Event matchmaking

4 Event analytics

5 Event badges

6 Event networking tips

7 Here’s what else to consider

Event Planning

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What are the most effective event technology tools for networking?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Event apps

2 Event platforms

3 Event matchmaking

4 Event analytics

5 Event badges

6 Event networking tips

7 Here’s what else to consider

Event Planning

Rate this article

Thanks for your feedback

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