The Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) industry has undergone a significant transformation in recent years, driven primarily by advances in technology and changes in consumer preferences. As we look towards the near future, we can expect the event business to continue evolving, with innovative trends shaping the way we plan, organize, and attend events.
By Roland Kümin*, Da Nang, Vietnam, 9 April 2024
Picture: pre-briefing of Automechanika, Ho Chi Minh City (see events calendar below).
Let's delve into six predictions for the MICE industry and explore how the event business landscape is set to change.
Conferences as Entertainment
In the coming years, conferences will transition from being purely information-driven events to engaging, entertainment-oriented experiences. This shift will be driven by the need to cater to a diverse audience, who now have access to a wealth of information and learning resources online. To stand out and attract attendees, conference organizers will need to create immersive experiences that combine learning with entertainment, integrating elements like live performances, interactive workshops, and gamification.
Bigger, Tech-Friendly Venues
As events become more technologically advanced and experiential, there will be a growing demand for bigger and more tech-friendly venues. These spaces will need to accommodate large audiences while also providing the infrastructure required for cutting-edge event technology. This may include high-speed Wi-Fi, advanced audio-visual systems, virtual and augmented reality capabilities, and robust electrical systems to support technology-driven installations and exhibits.
The Rise of Great Event Tech
Event technology will become a central aspect of the MICE industry, with solutions designed to enhance the attendee experience, streamline event management, and facilitate data-driven decision-making. Some examples of great event tech include:
a. Mobile event apps: Attendees will rely on comprehensive mobile apps for personalized schedules, real-time updates, interactive maps, and social networking features that foster networking and engagement.
b. Virtual and hybrid events: The use of virtual and hybrid event platforms will increase, enabling organizers to expand their reach and cater to remote audiences while reducing the environmental impact of in-person events.
c. Artificial intelligence: AI-powered tools will play a significant role in streamlining event planning, from chatbots that provide instant support to attendees, to machine learning algorithms that analyze event data and optimize future events.
Personalization and Customization
As consumers increasingly demand personalized experiences, event organizers will need to create tailor-made events that cater to individual preferences. This will involve leveraging data insights to understand attendees' interests and offering customizable event itineraries, personalized content, and unique experiences. Additionally, event planners will need to embrace adaptive event design, allowing for real-time adjustments based on attendee feedback and engagement levels.
Focus on Sustainability
Sustainability will emerge as a key consideration for event organizers, as environmental concerns become more pressing. This will involve adopting eco-friendly practices throughout the event lifecycle, from choosing sustainable venues and materials to reducing waste and minimizing the carbon footprint. Moreover, a focus on sustainability will extend to the types of experiences offered, with events centered around themes like climate change, conservation, and social responsibility becoming more prevalent.
The Importance of Networking and Collaboration
As technology continues to evolve, the importance of face-to-face interactions will remain crucial for networking and collaboration in the MICE industry. Event organizers will need to facilitate these connections through thoughtfully designed networking spaces, interactive sessions, and activities that encourage collaboration. Virtual and hybrid events will also play a role in fostering connections, with platforms offering networking features like video chat, virtual meeting rooms, and collaborative workspaces.
smartville.digital
The MICE industry is poised for significant change as it adapts to new technologies, evolving consumer preferences, and a shifting global landscape. By embracing trends such as immersive entertainment, larger tech-friendly venues, innovative event technologies, personalization, sustainability, and an emphasis on networking and collaboration, event professionals can successfully navigate these transformations and ensure the continued growth and success of the industry.
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*Roland Kümin is a tech influencer, digital shaper and long selling author in Zurich, Switzerland and Da Nang, Vietnam. He is an expert on the Vietnam economy and the global MICE scene. Roland has visited the award winning Ariyana Convention Center in Da Nang, the million people city with a knack.
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