AV technology in 2023 brings forth a new era of immersive, interactive, and inclusive event experiences. Its integration empowers event organizers to create impactful and memorable events, facilitate global connections, and optimize operational efficiency while keeping up with evolving attendee expectations and industry trends.

The event industry is undergoing quite a transformation in 2023 as event organizers integrate technologies that enhance accessibility and sustainability to serve diverse audiences. As we move forward in 2023, pay close attention to these industry trends and how they will impact your events.

How AV Technology Can Enhance an Event 

In 2023, AV technology will continue to play a pivotal role in enhancing the event industry. Event industry professionals can utilize these innovative technologies to create engaging, accessible events for remote and in-person attendees. If you’re interested in improving your events with AV technology, consider the following use cases and benefits:

  • Hybrid and Virtual Events: AV technology has become indispensable in the era of hybrid and virtual events. It enables event organizers to seamlessly connect remote attendees with in-person participants, providing real-time interactions, networking opportunities, and access to content from anywhere in the world. 
  • Personalization and Customization: AV technology enables event organizers to tailor experiences to individual attendees. Personalization features such as personalized agendas, content recommendations, and targeted messaging enhance attendee satisfaction and engagement. 
  • Event Production Efficiency: AV technology streamlines event production processes and enhances efficiency. Advanced lighting, sound systems, and video production equipment simplify setup, improve audiovisual quality, and reduce manual labor. Automated systems, such as smart lighting and audio control, help manage technical aspects effectively. 

Now, let’s discuss a few ways to utilize these event industry trends to spark audience engagement and create memorable experiences.

AV Technology for the Event Industry Trends in 2023

AV technology can help your organization stay on top of industry trends and enhance attendee experiences. Consult AV integration experts about implementing the following technologies to keep up with event industry trends in 2023.

1. Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR)

In recent years, augmented reality (AR) has become quite popular because it allows attendees to interact with virtual environments using their smartphones. In the event industry, businesses are utilizing AR technology to improve customer service and provide customers with relevant information.

Virtual reality (VR) is another growing trend in the event industry. Companies are implementing this technology in new, exciting ways to create a realistic guest experience. For instance, VR headsets may enable guests to immerse themselves in virtual worlds.

2. Digital Privacy and Security for Events

Privacy regulation is evolving rapidly. In the past, digital privacy regulations centered around financial information, but today, it is crucial to protect attendees’ personal data as well. However, consumer data is critical to the creation of a successful event.

Event organizers pay close attention to what personal information they collect from event registrants and how they use it. Furthermore, they must know how long they are permitted to keep this data and the amount of time they have to send marketing emails long after the event has occurred.

Consequently, you can expect enhanced security and privacy regulations to impact how event organizers handle payments and sensitive data significantly. There may also be a rise in the use of self-protecting data software for improved digital security.

4. Live Streaming Events to Attract Attendees

Live streaming technologies allow people to experience events without the hassle of traveling in person. Millennials and Gen Z are most likely to attend events to learn more about certain companies. They’re more likely to attend events via live stream in comparison to older generations, so it’s beneficial for those in the event industry to implement AV technology that supports live streams.

If your organization is ready to participate in the live stream trend, consider installing beamtracking microphones and PTZ cameras. Beamtracking microphones automatically follow the person speaking for improved sound quality. Meanwhile, PTZ tracking cameras allow the camera to follow the  speaker’s movement throughout the room, thereby reducing the need for additional camera operators and creating a realistic experience for remote attendees.

5. Accessibility for Digital and In-Person Events

Increasing accessibility with the power of AV technology is essential for those in the events industry. Cutting-edge event professionals must learn how to utilize AV technology to enhance accessibility for differently-abled attendees.

Event professionals interested in improving accessibility should consult AV integration specialists about including screen readers and voice recognition tools. Screen readers will ensure that differently-abled individuals with visual impairments can interact with digital content. Furthermore, voice recognition technology allows people with physical or mental disabilities to engage with content.

For live streams and recorded content, consider enabling real-time closed captioning for remote attendees. AV technology in the form of assistive listening systems may be utilized to transmit audio content directly to personal hearing aids or receivers.

6. Sustainable Technology for All Events

Modern event attendees are quite concerned about technology’s effects on the environment. As industries in every sector shift integration of sustainable technologies and clean energy solutions, so is the events industry. There are several ways that event organizers can utilize AV technology to create eco-friendly events, such as:

  • Virtual and Hybrid Events: Consider hosting virtual or hybrid events to reduce the carbon footprint associated with travel and venue logistics. Virtual events allow attendees to participate remotely, while hybrid events combine both in-person and virtual components.
  • Energy-Efficient AV Technology: Choose energy-efficient technology options such as LED lighting, low-power projectors, and audiovisual equipment. Encourage exhibitors and vendors to use energy-efficient displays and equipment as well.
  • Smart Energy Management: Utilize technology to monitor and manage energy consumption during the event. Install smart meters to track energy usage and implement automated systems to adjust lighting and temperature settings based on occupancy and time of day.

It is also beneficial for those in the event industry to select LEED-certified event venues or prioritize energy efficiency. Additionally, a venue with access to high-quality public transport may reduce attendee reliance on vehicles.

Choose the Right AV Technology with Applied Global

If your organization requires an AV upgrade for your conference room or other office areas, Applied Global Technologies (AGT) offers the professional guidance and implementation support you need. To learn more about our AV solutions, contact us today. We’ll be happy to discuss your specific needs and recommend the right solution for your goals and budget.