Discovering Convention Center Technology Trends for 2023
Convention centers are evolving. As IoT technology continues to become normalized within consumer expectations, event venues need to make sure they remain on top of industry trends to keep customers happy. Consumers expect intuitive IoT upgrades at their event; we’re here to help.
Below, explore 5 convention center technology trends to keep an eye on for the year ahead.
1. Reliable Network Access Points Across Venues
WiFi access points refer to the networking devices that allow devices outside of a network (i.e. phones, tablets, laptops) to wirelessly connect for internet use. For users to gain consistent internet connectivity within a venue, convention centers need to skillfully and purposefully place access points throughout a venue.
Outdated convention centers often fail to offer reliable network access due to poor placement of access points. In older venues, access points are placed distant from each-other, creating dead zones within a venue — spurring attendees to “search for a signal” within a hectic, crowded event space. WiFi access points are also frequently placed in areas that obscure signals, such as behind an event fixture, further weakening the signal of already unreliable access points.
It’s essential for modern convention centers to allow event attendees to access WiFi in any part of a venue — to do so, they need to avoid these common access point pitfalls and commit to expansive wireless access point placements. The Las Vegas Convention Center, for example, has 2,800 WiFi access points, providing facility-wide coverage that keeps guests, booths, and exhibitors connected. The installation of expansive WiFi coverage requires the help of a professional — such as our team at Hospitality Network.
2. Real-Time Updates Within Event Screens
The image of modern convention centers is defined by vibrant screens; bulky, cumbersome physical signage has been replaced by adaptable monitors displaying information catered specifically to event attendees and leveraging skillful graphic design. These screens save waste, cut costs on printed materials, and lower the time it takes to set-up for new events.
Leveraging connections from more reliable access points, convention centers can provide real-time event updates via digital signage. Whether with screen mirroring or more extensive software, event screens can display updates such as room changes for meetings, reminders for important speakers, and even wayfinding updates to guide attendees to important locations. Powered by IoT, event screens offer valuable utility to event organizers.
3. Personalized Live Video Streaming
In sprawling convention centers, it can be difficult for attendees to catch every moment; due to busy schedules, essential meetings may need to be held as an important speaker orates across a venue.
While necessary, these sacrifices can be minimized using IoT technology. Modern events often stream speakers for wider-spread consumption over the internet — WiFi within convention centers can leverage these streams from within a venue. Connected to convention center screens, event organizers can stream speakers throughout an event as they speak — allowing attendees to tune in and out as they need to and stay connected to convention happenings. These live streams can also help engage users who were unable to attend the event in person, helping broaden the audience of the convention beyond physical attendees.
In addition, these streaming capabilities can extend beyond speakers. Via internet connections, attendees can watch the news, documentaries, and even access streaming services — an increasingly important accommodation within the hospitality industry. Whatever the use, reliable video streaming can help blow event attendees away.
4. Complimentary WiFi for Attendees, Built Into Event Pricing
One concern convention centers often have about WiFi installation is network cost. Lightning-fast, high-bandwidth network options cost more than less reliable alternatives, and in turn occasionally force convention centers to pay a premium for services. These expenses put convention centers in a tough spot — do event attendees have to pay for better WiFi? Should venues charge in tiers for WiFi access?
The industry is trending towards a far simpler solution — offering complimentary WiFi for attendees, pre-built into event pricing. As opposed to complicating engagement with different payment plans and flexible tiers, convention centers can offer one comprehensive WiFi option as part of renting out the venue. With this shift in marketing, convention centers can turn their responsive WiFi into a selling point, rather than a detriment.
5. Customized Branded Network Landing Pages
Landing pages are the pages event attendees use to log onto WiFi networks, often requesting information such as name, cell phone number, or other verifying factors to ensure only event attendees can access WiFi. For large venues such as convention centers, landing pages can serve as an essential step to secure your network. Their utility, however, expands beyond privacy.
Branded network landing pages turn traditional landing pages into an opportunity to market, and can be especially useful for convention centers. Depending on the event, venues can advertise keynote speakers, premium experiences, and even upcoming events — all turning landing pages into a valuable place to increase ROI.
Adapt to Convention Center Industry Trends With Hospitality Network
As industry standards for convention centers continue to advance, you need a partner to ensure your venue stays up-to-date. Hospitality Network remains at the cutting edge of convention center technology — building smart venues with high-speed connectivity in mind. Our suite of solutions is trusted amongst industry-leaders, including providing internet to the 4.6 million-square-foot Las Vegas Convention Center.
Don’t let your convention center fall behind. Request a consultation with Hospitality Network today and stay on top of convention center industry trends — both now and later.