Mini-Guide: Location-Based Technology + Your Events

Society as a whole has become more and more technologically advanced over the years, and these advancements are especially prevalent in last decade. We handle almost everything from our smart devices, from banking to shopping to booking appointments, and everything in between. It’s interesting to see the impact technology has on our lives when we disconnect from it, whether due to a network interruption or to take a break from the FaceTime have some face-to-face time.

How It’s Helpful For Event Professionals

As creatures of habit, it may be more difficult for some more than others to embrace technology, and though it may limit us in some ways–think “natural” face-to-face human interaction–it opens us up to a whole new world of possibilities. This is especially true for those that make up the event industry; accustomed to working a particular way, it can be intimidating to explore unfamiliar territories, especially when we aim to give 110% to our clients and are unsure of the means by which we will deliver said promise.

The introduction of NFC capabilities on the newest Apple iPhone just shows to prove that businesses are looking to create less steps in an already user-friendly world, and the fact of the matter is that technology has really enhanced experiences at events for both attendees and event professionals alike.

To limit confusion, we must become more acquainted with the ever-changing and dynamic world of technology to take full advantage of the present developments to guide us towards future success. Believe it or not, we’ve been introduced to these types of technologies and are more familiar with them than we think. Below further details these trending technological terms.

RFID (Radio Frequency Identification Device, or Chip)

A small and almost paper-thin “chip” that is placed within something, such as a tag or card, and then used to transfer data from up to a few feet away. These play a big role in the consumer market, introduced to retailers to prevent shoplifting at stores, and are also included in credit cards to provide a faster and easier method of payment.

GPS (Global Positioning Signal)

Not just part of an automobile’s console, GPS is used to provide location and time information anywhere in the world based on a signal transmitted to a satellite. Operated by the United States government, it is accessible to any user that has a receiver, and is commonly found in most automobiles and mobile phones in recent years.

NFC (Near-Field Communication)

A huge part of the evolution of social networking and the most-talked about feature of the iPhone 6, this feature takes RFID to another level by creating a connection via short-range radio frequency.  Two devices touch or are brought within close proximity of each other to transfer data and information, and this is particularly useful for mobile payments. (Think simply placing your mobile phone near an apparatus without having to enter any data or press any buttons.)

QR Code (Quick Response Code)

Similar to a barcode, the QR Code is a scannable pixelated image that are a prominent player in the marketing industry. The code contains embedded content that, when scanned, links the user to information or transfers data between user and the link source. Many smart devices use this feature thanks to the many available (and free) applications that one can download to their mobile phone and scan using the camera feature. Many are familiar with these and though they are lagging in the shadows of RFID and other technologies, they are still a very simple and resourceful tool for event professionals.

Beacons

In order to understand the functionality of the Beacon (or Apple’s iBeacon), you need to understand how Bluetooth operates. Another wireless technology component, Bluetooth also exchanges information via radio transmitters across a small computer chip that uses software to connect, or pair, with another device.

A beacon is a small Bluetooth transmitter that triggers a smart device when it is within range thanks to apps downloaded on the phone or tablet. For example, if an attendee is at a conference and has downloaded an app specifically created for the event, they will receive information as they come into closer proximity with a beacon.

Image via SHTF Plan

Is Location-Based Tech the “Big Brother” of Events?

Technology may seem invasive to some, and has its drawbacks like anything else, but unless you have apps that correspond with each and every beacon you come across, you’ll see that it is quite beneficial to implement, especially in the event industry.

Regardless if an event is large or small, these technological advancements upgrade the most important part of the event: registration. A process that should be fast for guests and easy for the event professional, the attendee’s goal is to be a part of the event’s experience to broaden their own education in an area and network.

With something like a QR code feature, you’re guaranteed not only a seamless check-in, but the ability for guests to exchange information during the event. To amplify the connecting capabilities–particularly for an event with a large number of attendees, such as a conference or festival–opt for the RFID name tags. Guests can exchange information by simply tapping their badge with that of another’s thanks to RFID technology, and even GPS has been integrated by way of attendee tracking and lead retrieval functions.

There are a variety of options and ways to integrate this very efficient technology at events, and the team at Boomset is here to discuss the location-based solution that’s best for your upcoming event.