Mobile apps have transformed the way we organize/attend events. Gone are the days of pen and paper! No longer do guests want to fill out their name and number on a clipboard to bid for auction items. No longer are auctioneers writing down peoples’ credit card numbers on a receipt to key in the information at a later date back in the office. We now live in a world of immediacy and a world where over 2.5 billion people own smartphones. Which is why mobile bidding and ‘text to give’ have become essential features at any event looking to raise funds.
The success of any event heavily depends on the guests’ experience, which includes their digital experience. According to Eventtia, a recent study shows that 60% of event planners say that by offering an event app, they saw an increase in attendee engagement and 91% of event planners saw a positive ROI from event apps.
Mobile apps have a plethora of benefits. They provide the opportunity to increase donations, brand awareness, and sponsorship advertisements. Mobile event apps are also likely to boost attendee engagement, reduce paper waste, and are a good outlet for receiving feedback. One of the biggest perks of using a mobile app for an event is that it provides the opportunity to navigate your attendees during the event. They could also be the solution to some common event issues. For example, mobile apps could alleviate hold-ups at registration or check-in.
Below are a couple of tips to follow when utilizing a mobile platform for your event:
Make sure that your event venue is suitable for mobile bidding
About 3 weeks before the event, encourage your attendees to download/register for the app prior to the event
Keep attendees up-to-date and informed with push notifications via the app
Have volunteers present at the event to provide guests who did not pre-register, with help to do so.
While some argue that event apps could be distracting to your guests, others have the mentality of, ‘in a digital distraction age, if you can’t beat them, join them’.
In an age where people do most of their interaction, engagement and consummation of information through a digital platform, mobile event apps would make your event more relevant than ever.
Things to Consider Before Deciding to Utilize Mobile Bidding:
# of attendees
What other fundraising efforts will occur at the event (too many fundraising activities may distract your guests)
If you will have volunteers at your event
If your event will take place on multiple floors or buildings
