How do you manage the risks of hosting a live esports event?

1 Plan ahead

One of the most important steps to manage the risks of hosting a live esports event is to plan ahead and anticipate potential problems. You should have a clear vision of your event's goals, budget, format, and schedule, and communicate them with your team and stakeholders. You should also research the venue, the equipment, the network, and the local regulations, and make sure you have the necessary permits, contracts, and insurance. Having a detailed and realistic plan will help you avoid surprises and cope with changes.

2 Test and backup

Another key step to manage the risks of hosting a live esports event is to test and backup your technical systems and equipment. You should conduct a thorough testing of your hardware, software, network, and streaming platforms before the event, and fix any bugs or glitches. You should also have backup plans and solutions in case of power outages, internet failures, or equipment malfunctions. For example, you should have backup generators, routers, servers, and devices, as well as backup data and files. You should also have a contingency plan for rescheduling or canceling the event if necessary.

3 Train and brief

A third step to manage the risks of hosting a live esports event is to train and brief your staff and players. You should have a qualified and experienced team of technicians, producers, moderators, commentators, and security personnel, and provide them with clear roles and responsibilities. You should also train and brief your players on the rules, expectations, and etiquette of the event, and make sure they are comfortable and familiar with the equipment and the environment. You should also have a code of conduct and a crisis management protocol in case of any disputes, incidents, or emergencies.

4 Engage and monitor

A fourth step to manage the risks of hosting a live esports event is to engage and monitor your audience and community. You should create a positive and inclusive atmosphere for your attendees, both online and offline, and provide them with information, entertainment, and interaction. You should also monitor your social media, chat, and feedback channels, and respond to any questions, comments, or complaints. You should also be aware of any potential threats or risks from hackers, trolls, or hostile groups, and have a security team and a moderation team to deal with them.

5 Evaluate and improve

A fifth step to manage the risks of hosting a live esports event is to evaluate and improve your performance and outcomes. You should collect and analyze data and feedback from your staff, players, and audience, and identify your strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. You should also celebrate your achievements, recognize your contributors, and thank your supporters. You should also learn from your mistakes, challenges, and failures, and use them to improve your future events and strategies.