The Ultimate Checklist For Finding Technology-Enhanced Conference Venues

Read The Ultimate Checklist for Finding Technology-Enhanced Conference Venues for your next tech Event.

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13 September 2024 10:20 AM
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The Ultimate Checklist For Finding Technology-Enhanced Conference Venues

Planning a conference today means looking for more than just a nice space. In a world where tech is king, you want a venue that’s equipped with the right technology to make your event smooth and engaging. If you’re hunting for conference venues in Perth, you’ll want to ensure they tick all the tech boxes. This checklist will help you find a venue that combines the latest gadgets with everything else you need for a successful event, without making it overly complicated.

1. Strong, Reliable Wi-Fi

Let’s be real—nobody’s going to be happy if the Wi-Fi isn’t working, especially at a conference. Whether your attendees are checking emails, live tweeting, or joining a Zoom call, having fast, reliable Wi-Fi is essential.

When you're checking out conference venues in Perth, ask about the internet speed and how many people the connection can handle at once. Also, check if it’s included in the venue hire or if there are extra costs. Make sure the Wi-Fi can support all your event’s needs, especially if you'll be streaming video or running interactive sessions online.

2. Top-Notch Audio-Visual Equipment

Great sound and visuals are key to making sure your presentations go off without a hitch. Nobody wants to sit through a conference where the slides are blurry or the microphone cuts in and out. Here’s a quick list of the must-have AV gear:

  • Projectors or large screens: Ensure the venue has high-quality screens, especially if it’s a big room, so everyone can see clearly.
  • Microphones and speakers: Whether it's for a keynote speaker or a Q&A session, make sure the venue has wireless and lapel mics along with good speakers to project sound throughout the space.
  • Lighting: Adjustable lighting can help set the mood or highlight key moments during presentations.
  • Video conferencing: If your event includes remote speakers or attendees, check if the venue has video conferencing equipment to make things easier.

Also, ask if the venue has an on-site AV technician. It’s always handy to have a pro around to set everything up and troubleshoot any issues that might pop up.

3. Plenty of Charging Stations and Power Outlets

You can bet that your attendees will come with multiple devices—laptops, phones, and tablets—all of which need charging throughout the day. Look for a venue with plenty of power outlets and ideally, charging stations. It’s a small detail, but it goes a long way in keeping everyone happy and connected.

Ask the venue how many outlets are available and where they’re located. You don’t want your guests to be stuck sitting on the floor in the back of the room just to charge their phone.

4. Digital Signage for That Professional Touch

Many modern venues offer digital signage, and it's a great way to keep your event organised and on-brand. Digital screens can display the event schedule, announcements, or directions around the venue. They can also be used to showcase your logo or promote event sponsors.

Find out if the venue offers customisable digital signage options. It’s a simple way to elevate your event’s professionalism without much effort.

5. Virtual and Hybrid Event Capabilities

Finding Technology-Enhanced Conference Venues

With more events offering virtual components, it's important to find a venue that can handle hybrid setups. Some conference venues in Perth now come with built-in streaming tools, making it easy to broadcast your event to attendees who can’t be there in person.

Make sure the venue has the right internet bandwidth and technology to stream your event without glitches. You should also check if the venue offers a professional live-streaming service or if you'll need to bring in your own tech team to handle that part.

6. Smart Room Controls

Tech-enhanced venues often come with smart room controls, which can make managing your event a whole lot easier. These might include:

  • Climate control: Adjust the temperature to keep everyone comfortable.
  • Lighting: Control the brightness or dim the lights for presentations.
  • Blinds/curtains: Some venues have automatic window coverings to block out sunlight during presentations.

These little touches can make a big difference in ensuring everything runs smoothly, without you having to constantly call on staff to adjust things.

7. Interactive Tools for Audience Engagement

If you want to keep your attendees engaged, look for venues that offer interactive tools and collaboration technologies. Some handy features might include:

  • Interactive whiteboards: Great for workshops or brainstorming sessions, where real-time collaboration is needed.
  • Audience response systems: These allow attendees to participate in polls, ask questions, or give feedback using their phones or tablets.
  • Touchscreen monitors: Ideal for more hands-on or interactive presentations.

These tools can help make your event more dynamic and give your attendees an experience they won’t forget.

8. Accessibility is Key

Don’t forget to check if the venue is accessible to all your attendees. A good tech-enhanced venue should also offer features that make it easy for everyone to enjoy the event. Things like:

  • Hearing loops for those with hearing impairments.
  • Accessible Wi-Fi login so guests can easily connect to the network without complicated passwords.
  • Ramps and elevators for anyone with mobility issues.

Ensuring your venue is fully accessible means no one is left out and everyone can participate equally.

9. On-Site Technical Support

Even the best technology can fail from time to time, so it’s smart to choose a venue that offers on-site technical support. Many conference venues in Perth have tech staff available to help with setting up equipment, managing AV during the event, and fixing any issues that come up.

Before booking, ask about the level of support provided. Are the tech staff around for the entire event, or only for setup? Having a reliable team on hand can help things run smoothly and keep any tech glitches from ruining your day.

10. Backup Plans for Tech Failures

Let’s face it—tech issues can happen when you least expect them. To avoid any major hiccups, it’s important to have a backup plan. Ask the venue what they have in place for things like power outages or Wi-Fi failures.

Some venues have backup generators, mobile Wi-Fi hotspots, or extra AV equipment on hand, just in case something goes wrong. It’s always better to be prepared, so knowing what your options are will give you peace of mind.