Pros and cons of hybrid conferences

The possibilities of video conferencing are now widely used by people for personal life and learning; companies for business development. When you hear about video conferencing, most often they talk about their benefits, and rarely about some technical problems that need to be solved. And what about something in between virtual and live?

What is a hybrid conference?

A hybrid conference is an event that takes place in a physical location and typically has all the characteristics of a regular off-site meeting, but with an online presence element. Thus, if this is some kind of presentation, for example, people can gather in some hall, the speakers will speak from the stage or in a remote format, and you will watch it online. Reminds broadcasters, but most often there is an opportunity to ask questions and participate.

Why is hosting a hybrid conference a good idea?

By integrating an online conference into a live event, you can find many opportunities for presenting information. For example, even if you pre-record some panel discussion in a hybrid format and then start a webcast, it will be spectacular. After the pandemic, TV programs also use this format (for example, the French "C Dans l'Air").

Advantages of hybrid conferences

Among the benefits that distinguish hybrid events, you will find:

• the best of physical and virtual events - mobility and flexibility on the one hand and first-hand communication on the other;
• a variety of opportunities for earning - effective management will turn sponsorship to your side;
• Member Options - offering opportunities suitable for any type of member;
• it is something new – the novelty of such events is part of the spectacular results.

Pay attention to these points when deciding whether you will host a hybrid event or not.

Cons of hybrid conferences

When exploring the pros and cons of hybrid conferences, you should always be aware of some annoyances - real or potential. Thus, consider:

• the need for two conferences in one - the combination of formats means more responsibility;
• high-budget requirements - to ensure comfort for both in-person and remote participants;
• the risk of distorting the overall experience - take care of a program that involves the participation of both types of participants;
• just a few success stories to draw inspiration from - due to costly organization and complex planning, people don't have much collective experience to produce successful examples.

Combining approaches involves balancing tactics and harmonizing the means you use to run a conference.

Is a hybrid conference format right for you?

To find out if you can host a hybrid conference, you should consider your budget, the topic of the meeting, the format of the interaction (business meeting, marketing proposal, webinar, etc.) and your agenda. If you find that your resources are sufficient for the organization, give it a try. However, if your software strategy or video conferencing software isn't strong enough, the benefits of video conferencing will backfire on you. And finally, the implementation will be a mess.

The bottom line is that you have a great opportunity to use the most profitable features of both formats: remotely and in person. But this only works with careful preparation and precise planning. Use your resources wisely and you will reach the top.