Should Your Next Event Be Hybrid or Fully Virtual?

Hybrid events appear to have it all. They combine the flexibility of virtual events with the power of in-person meetings.

In fact, according to a recent survey 40.6% of people reported hybrid events as their favorite event type.

So hybrid events are the go-to event choice…right? Unfortunately, it's not that simple.

Another recent survey found that 46% of event organizers said speakers had difficulty engaging a hybrid event audience.

As great as they are, hybrid events aren't without their challenges.

The Challenges of Hybrid Meetings

1. Complex Set-Up

Organizing an in-person and virtual event at the same time can be complex to set up.

You'll need:

• A venue that allows for an added virtual set-up
• A quality virtual event platform
• Robust equipment including strong internet, quality AV and lighting
• A team to provide tech support during the event

2. Higher Budget

By accommodating both an in-person and virtual audience, you are essentially paying for double the set-up.

However, the money you save by getting a smaller venue can go towards the virtual event platform.

3. Potential Content Compromise

Hybrid events require content that engages both the physical and virtual audience. You need to ensure neither audience feels cheated.

4. Difficulty Making Connections

Juggling the same audience in two separate locations can be a challenge. Text chats and event apps can help unify your audience.

The Pros of Hybrid Meetings

1. Wider Audience Reach

The most obvious and potentially most valuable advantage is the ability to reach a larger audience.

The virtual side means attendees can connect from anywhere, including:

• Those who suddenly can't make it in person
• Invitees from other areas or countries
• Attendees joining the stream live through social media
• Those who will watch the recorded event afterward

2. Save Time and Money on Travel

Traveling takes a significant amount of time and money. Some invitees might even decline the invitation simply because of the travel involved.

Bonus: You can choose speakers based on knowledge and experience, not geographical location.

3. Increased Data Analyses

Most virtual event platforms provide event analytics and metrics during the event, such as:

• Which sessions did attendees spend the most time in?
• Which parts sparked the most audience participation?
• How well did gamification affect attendee engagement?

4. In-Person Benefits

In-person events shine in networking (77.7% of attendees said in-person conferences provide the ideal networking environment) and product launching (80% of attendees say in-person events are the most trusted way to discover new products).

We're Here to Help You Decide

Your event goals, budget, and target audience will all play a HUGE factor in which event type is best for you.

With over 15 years in the virtual event space, we've seen how important choosing the right event type can be. We're here to help.