18 Virtual Event Platforms – Small Business Trends

Creating Change MagNovember 2, 20230484 views

Virtual events have become increasingly common over the last few years, especially with so much uncertainty around in person events. This has meant identifying and finding the best virtual event platform for event organizers to ensure that the platform can support all kinds of events.

With many virtual events becoming hybrid events where some attend in person, it’s important to find the right platform to support all these needs. That’s why we’ve rounded up some of the best virtual event platforms out there to help make the search easier.

What are Virtual Platforms?

In today’s digital age, virtual platforms have emerged as a powerful tool for connecting people irrespective of geographical boundaries. Essentially, virtual platforms are digital environments powered by sophisticated virtual event software that facilitates hosting events online.

These platforms serve as a bridge, connecting event organizers to their target audience seamlessly. Whether it’s a workshop, conference, or a global summit, these platforms are designed to manage every aspect of an online event.

Organizers can efficiently handle event registration, coordinate with attendees, disseminate essential information, and ensure smooth execution of the event, whether it’s for an intimate gathering or a sprawling international audience.

The inherent flexibility and adaptability of virtual platforms have made them an indispensable resource in the modern event management toolkit.

How do I Select a Virtual Event Platform?

In an era where technology plays a pivotal role in connecting us, virtual events have become a staple for businesses and organizations worldwide.

However, transitioning from in-person to virtual events can be a daunting task, as it necessitates heightened engagement and meticulous organization.

With numerous platforms available, it’s crucial to know what features to prioritize to ensure a seamless event experience. Let’s delve into the essential elements to consider:

Interactivity: At the heart of every successful virtual event lies robust audience engagement. Does the platform you’re considering offer interactive features like polls, Q&A sessions, and breakout rooms? Such tools can significantly enhance attendees’ involvement, making them feel more connected to the event.
Event Management: Organizing a virtual event entails numerous logistical elements. A good platform should streamline these processes. Look for features like intuitive scheduling, attendee coordination, automated invites, and follow-ups. These tools not only make the planner’s life easier but also ensure that attendees have all the information they need at their fingertips.
Flexibility: As the event landscape evolves, platforms need to be agile. Whether you’re planning a fully virtual, hybrid, or in-person event, the chosen platform should cater to all these formats, ensuring that the audience’s experience remains top-notch regardless of the event’s nature.
Customizable: Branding plays a crucial role in setting the tone for your event. The platform you opt for should offer customization options that allow you to infuse the event with your brand’s essence, from logos and color schemes to personalized event landing pages.
Mobile App: In today’s fast-paced world, attendees often prefer on-the-go solutions. Many top-tier virtual event platforms now offer dedicated mobile apps, making event management and participation more accessible, even when attendees are away from their desktops.
Intuitive: A virtual platform should not just replicate an in-person event but enhance it. Features that simulate real-life interactions, such as virtual handshakes or networking lounges, can bridge the gap between virtual and physical, driving more profound attendee engagement and satisfaction.

Our Methodology: How We Chose the Best Virtual Event Platforms

Virtual event platforms have redefined how we host, attend, and engage with events, from webinars to full-fledged conferences. The surge in their popularity means a plethora of options, making the selection process intricate. Here’s how we approached the evaluation of these platforms:

User Experience and Interface (10/10)

Participants’ engagement often hinges on a platform’s ease of use. We prioritize platforms that offer a clear, intuitive, and seamless experience for both hosts and attendees.

Interactivity Features (9/10)

A standout virtual event is interactive and engaging. We value platforms that incorporate features like polls, Q&A sessions, breakout rooms, and audience reactions.

Streaming Quality and Stability (9/10)

The essence of a virtual event is its online presence. We emphasize platforms that offer high-quality, stable streaming with minimal lag or downtime.

Integration and Customization (8/10)

The ability to integrate with other tools, like CRM systems or email marketing platforms, can streamline event management. Furthermore, customization options let brands align the platform’s look and feel with their identity.

Scalability (8/10)

From small workshops to massive global conferences, the platform should handle varying audience sizes without performance issues.

Security and Data Protection (8/10)

With increasing concerns about data privacy and security, we assess platforms based on their encryption standards, GDPR compliance, and overall data handling practices.

Mobile Responsiveness (7/10)

With a significant portion of users accessing events via mobile devices, platforms should offer a comparable experience on smaller screens.

Analytics and Reporting (7/10)

Post-event insights can drive improvement. We lean towards platforms that provide detailed analytics on attendee behavior, engagement metrics, and feedback.

Pricing Structure (7/10)

Every event has a budget. We evaluate the cost-effectiveness of platforms, considering both their feature set and pricing tiers.

Customer Support and Resources (6/10)

Even the best platforms can pose challenges. We appreciate platforms backed by responsive customer support and a rich library of resources or tutorials.

Selecting a virtual event platform requires balancing numerous considerations, from user experience to backend analytics. Our methodology aims to assist businesses in navigating this choice, ensuring their events resonate and achieve desired outcomes.

18 Best Virtual Event Platforms for Businesses

When evaluating a virtual event platform, you’ll need to consider what features will help you host virtual events and where the platform fits in. In addition, you need to create truly immersive events that attendees will enjoy for event excellence.

That’s why it’s so important for teams and marketing professionals to choose the right event software for the best event experience possible. And if you don’t have much experience with holding virtual events, look into event planning tips with this technology. Let’s look at some of the best virtual event platforms available for business.

1. Hubilo

The Hubilo platform executes perfectly when it comes to running a great virtual conference or event since it focuses on driving engagement. Hubilo empowers event organizers to create a great event ecosystem while creating a great experience.