The future is now. Major advances in technology are affecting every aspect of our lives, and that includes event planning. There are apps and technical equipment that can make conference planning in NYC easier and more exciting. Here are some trends we’re excited about for 2019 and beyond.

1) Virtual and Augmented Reality

Imagine taking conference attendees on a trip around the world, or even into outer space! Virtual reality and augmented reality have both become increasingly sophisticated, and can easily be a part of any event. This tech can be used to create interactive displays, on-site experiences or even as part of a company’s promotional strategy. It also has great potential to increase accessibility for attendees with certain requirements or limitations.

2) Drones

We’ve all seen drones flying through the park, but this fun gadget also has plenty of practical applications for NYC event planners. Drones can be incorporated into live entertainment shows by broadcasting projections or lights. More importantly, they can play a very important role in event surveillance. Drones equipped with a camera or scanning device can increase security at your next corporate event. Be aware, though, of policies and regulations regarding drones - the laws are constantly changing, but there are still times and locations where they can’t be used.

3) Facial recognition

Facial recognition has come a long way since Nicolas Cage became John Travolta in Face/Off. Facial recognition technology has broader security applications than even fingerprinting, which makes it an excellent feature at larger scale events like music festivals and sporting events. Attendee management, check-ins, behavior mapping, consumer engagement and event security are some of the ways that event producers can incorporate this feature into their plans. This is another area where regulations are changing, so be sure to do your research.

4) Event Diagramming Software

Spreadsheets are awesome and Slack is a godsend, but the newest software trend in event planning is event diagramming. Programs like Social Tables allow planners to visually map out events, from table set-up to where the washrooms are. Imagine being able to show your client a 3D walkthrough of their event months in advance. They’re also relatively easy to use and cloud-based, making communication with your entire planning team even easier.

5) Wearable Tech

Wearable tech is everywhere, from FitBits to Apple watches, and they can also add value to the event planning industry. It can bring efficiency to your event by making check-ins easier and logging attendee demographics. RFID, or radio frequency identification, is one form of wearable tech that event planners should be familiar with. It’s used in everything from wrist bands to nametags and can make ticketing and attendee mapping easier. Wearable tech is perfect for larger-scale events, and we’re excited to see how fashion, technology, and event planning will combine together in the future!

6) Individualized Event Apps

Apps are already mainstream, but the event planning industry is finding all kinds of ways to tailor them for client events. They can add a personalized techie touch to any event. Your event’s personalized app can provide speaker info, schedule, connect attendees for networking, and most importantly, allow guests to get information about the event anywhere, anytime. You can even get more futuristic by incorporating an augmented reality feature to make your event really memorable. (Think Pokémon Go, but for the corporate market!) Event planners in New York City can expect to see an increase in companies using these new technologies in 2019 and beyond, as well as an increase in events by the tech companies looking to find new audiences for their product. Trends and advances in event technology can make your event easier to plan, and provide an unforgettable experience for your guests, as well.

If you’re planning an event in New York City, talk to the team at Tribeca Rooftop about how you can incorporate the latest technology trends into your event.