How do you enhance venue selection with technology?

1 Virtual site inspections

One of the challenges of venue selection is visiting and inspecting multiple locations, especially if they are far away or have limited availability. Virtual site inspections can help you overcome this obstacle by allowing you to see and explore the venues online, using 3D tours, interactive maps, videos, and photos. You can also use virtual reality (VR) headsets or augmented reality (AR) apps to immerse yourself in the venue and get a realistic feel of the space, layout, and ambiance. Virtual site inspections can help you narrow down your choices, save travel costs, and ask questions to the venue managers in real time.

2 Venue sourcing platforms

Another way to enhance your venue selection is to use venue sourcing platforms, which are online services that help you find, compare, and book venues based on your criteria, budget, and preferences. You can use filters, reviews, ratings, and availability calendars to search for venues that match your needs and expectations. You can also request quotes, negotiate rates, and sign contracts online, without having to contact each venue individually. Venue sourcing platforms can help you save time, access more options, and get the best deals for your event.

3 Event design software

Once you have selected your venue, you can use event design software to plan and visualize how your event will look like in the venue. Event design software lets you create floor plans, seating charts, decor, lighting, and audiovisual effects using drag-and-drop tools, templates, and 3D models. You can also collaborate with your team, vendors, and clients, and share your designs online or offline. Event design software can help you optimize your space, enhance your creativity, and impress your attendees.

4 Venue analytics

Finally, you can use technology to measure and improve your venue selection by using venue analytics, which are data and insights that help you evaluate the performance, impact, and satisfaction of your event in relation to the venue. You can use tools such as surveys, feedback forms, social media monitoring, RFID tags, and heat maps to collect and analyze data on your attendees' behavior, engagement, preferences, and feedback. You can also use benchmarks, reports, and dashboards to compare your results with your goals, expectations, and industry standards. Venue analytics can help you learn from your experience, identify strengths and weaknesses, and make better decisions for future events.

Technology can be a powerful ally in your venue selection process, as it can help you find, compare, book, design, and evaluate venues in a more convenient, effective, and innovative way. By using technology, you can enhance your event planning skills, save resources, and deliver memorable events for your attendees.

5 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?