Social distancing mandates and event cancellations are radically transforming the way we use the Internet and interact with each other.
As event professionals, we know that it is nearly impossible to completely replicate an real-life fully interactive event and all its benefits. But this time in collective quarantine has allowed us to think outside the box and get creative in the various ways we interact with each digitally.
Online classes, e-sports live streams, and even church sermons have found new arenas online, creating innovative virtual spaces to help us mitigate the spread of COVID-19.
As a society, it’s impressive how we have positively taken to online spaces to try to recreate otherwise real-life events.
After the pandemic, Virtual and Real events are going to be an integral part of the event industry and here is why.
Inclusive and accessible
The worldwide cancellation of many events has inspired the creation of new virtual spaces where people can access content and interact, helping each other mitigate the negative effects of social distancing, completely out of necessity.
For example, Formula One decided to launch a series of virtual Grand Prix’s, featuring world-famous drivers, virtual concerts are being held, and celebrities are hosting live streams to help keep spirits high.
We know this is an just a band-aid, and when normality returns, concerts and sporting events will return in full swing. But whose to say these virtual events will go away.
Esports streaming and events were already on the rise, but the pandemic has given it a significant boost. There is also a boost in webinars and free online courses.
The virtual space is accessible and inclusive. We are now living in a time where we can watch our favorite artists perform a show for free. Who's to say that people aren't enjoying this aspect of the pandemic and would like this to continue afterwards.
You cannot replace replace real-life events
Despite the success of these events, it’s obvious that not even the most advanced VR kit can recreate the emotions or feelings of attending activities like a music concert, comedy club, or food festival.
Humanity evolved by creating social bonds to survive and connecting to others in real life is implanted in our neural networks.
As interconnected as the world may be right now, the inadequate social interaction is affecting our health. The stressed caused by loneliness can increase the risk of heart disease, diabetes, joint damage, and depression.
As we know, this is a necessary measure to reduce the risk of spread, but it shows that face-to-face interaction is not only needed for business and entertainment, but also our health.
There is something that is intrinsically important to seeing someone face-to-face, and it's definitely missed by all. However successful a digital event may be, it will not be able to fully replace the benefits of a real-life event.
Life beyond social distancing
Examining both real and digital events, we have come to the conclusion that both are valuable in our world. Digital or virtual events serve as an accessible and lower cost means of connection, while real-life events fulfill our need of social interaction.
As we begin to re-enter "normalcy" and experts are giving the green light on larger and larger gatherings, we will see how event planners and promoters react in terms of their digital efforts. Will the digital facing events be ignored or will they continue to thrive?
Although necessary in our current state, effective planning can turn your short-term solution into a viable tool for the post-pandemic world.
Crowdcore is determined to help all event planners and organizers find solutions for their event needs. Allow us to show you how you can use our platform to sell out your next event.