This archive report was first published on 6 June 2020.
As the world grapples with the COVID-19 pandemic, the events industry has undergone a significant transformation. The traditional model of in-person conferences, with thousands of dollars spent on travel and accommodation, has given way to digital gatherings.
According to Sunny Bindra, a seasoned observer of the business world, the shift to online conferences has brought about a new era of accessibility and affordability. In a recent article, Bindra noted that attending a global conference online has become a viable option, with the added benefit of zero dollars spent on entry fees.
But what does this shift mean for businesses and event organizers? Bindra argues that the old normal is gone, and the new one requires fresh thinking about the nature of experiences. The key, he emphasizes, is to deliver genuine value, whether virtually or physically.
As the world adjusts to this new reality, businesses must adapt and innovate to stay ahead. The digital shift in conferences presents an opportunity for growth and transformation, but it also poses significant challenges for those who organize gatherings, sell knowledge and learning, and move and host people.
As Bindra aptly puts it, 'The challenge for those who are hit hardest by this development – hotels, airlines, educational institutions, event organisers, office providers – is to get ahead of the reset.' The time to understand why people will still gather and travel, and to reimagine our offerings and repertoires, is now.
With the rise of digital conferencing platforms like Zoom, the future of business gatherings looks increasingly digital. As Bindra notes, 'Bytes and pixels will do a lot of the travelling now, not just human bodies.' The implications are profound, and businesses must be prepared to adapt and innovate to stay ahead of the curve.
As we navigate this new era, one thing is clear: the digital shift in conferences is here to stay. It's time for businesses to reimagine their offerings and deliver genuine value to their audiences.
Originally published on www.sunwords.com on June 6, 2020.
