Is artificial technology the answer to boring online events?

"AI is taking over the internet," according to Mike McCloy, senior account manager of Maximillion, a corporate event management company.

With searches for ChatGPT skyrocketing since January 2023. And following the release of GPT-4, with a host of new features, AI technology is about to get much more sophisticated - and accessible.

"Following the Covid-19 pandemic, many businesses are now embracing online events. However, there are downsides to these. Online attendees can find it difficult to retain attention, networking opportunities are limited, and online events pose cyber security issues," added McCloy.

"But now, AI has the potential to make all of these problems of the past."

Here, Mike outlines seven ways AI can ‘revolutionise’ online events:

1. Reduced Costs

When hosting an event, whether online or in person, there is a multitude of jobs to complete. Hiring staff to fill these roles can be costly, whether you are monitoring attendance, fixing any technical issues or collating feedback.

AI software is capable of completing all of these tasks - meaning a much lower cost that can be re-invested into outstanding speakers or future, in-person company events.

2. Increased Engagement

One of the major downsides of online events compared to in-person events are factors such as screen fatigue and the potential for distraction. As AI has the potential for facial recognition, the implementation of such software into events could have multiple uses.

These vary and include indicating when attendees require a break or monitoring employee attention levels to gauge success, which could all be used to improve future events.

3. Enhanced Accessibility

Online events are much more accessible than in-person events, from the ease of attending to the increased potential for successfully meeting communication needs for guests.

This can be achieved through AI easily producing alt text, automated lipreading, real-time translations and much more, meaning all needs can be swiftly and easily met.

4. Ultimate Personalisation

Understanding your audience is the best way to ensure that your corporate event is going to have an impact.

The advanced analytics you can gain from AI are huge, such as the information of your guests and their social media activity, which can then be used to make the event more inclusive and personalised to their interests.

5. All Questions Answered

For conglomerates or other large businesses, hosting a corporate event online can be incredibly difficult. You may feel you are unable to address all the needs of your attendees - which is where AI chatbots can come in.

Previously, an individual at the business may have been asked with answering the questions of all attendees. Nowadays, a chatbot is capable of doing so, while answering several questions at once. Attendees are also capable of asking questions privately, which can improve their comfort.

6. Networking Opportunities

One of the most innovative features of AI is its ‘matchmaking’ ability.

Often used for dating applications, this technology can be utilised in corporate events to match attendees to potential partners for networking, using metrics such as their role, relevant industry and any previous experience to create a perfect ‘match’.

AI can also be used to provide a virtual ‘lounge’ before the event, in which your attendees can discuss any preconceptions, exciting topics and much more to encourage social interaction.

7. Real-Time Data Analytics & Feedback

From your employee's reactions about key statements to measuring engagement levels, AI is a revolutionary and hassle-free means of collecting feedback.

Instead of having to trawl through hours of recorded footage, you can also instruct an AI to capture key moments, meaning making your next event a success is easier than ever.