Five event technology trends for 2020 from Sparq

Making events stand out is about more than the latest gadgets. It also requires keeping up with industry trends. Here, Sparq’s Chris Trim identifies five developments you should know about.

Event technology is an ever-changing landscape. While some tech makes its mark and we can’t remember how we ever lived without it, some products simply drop off the radar. It’s not always about the latest gadgets either. For production managers it should be about keeping up with industry trends to ensure their events are standing out. Here we look at some of the latest professional AV technology to hit the market, as well as event trends that show no sign of disappearing. They are presented in reverse order.

5. Getting personal

Personalisation at live events has been a trend for a while. However, in 2020 it’s stepping up a notch. Previously, personalisation has been a nice to have, reserved in its basic form for addressing emails or delegate registration. Event organisers can now get their hands on technology such as RFID wristbands, which can provide personalised welcomes plus event information and can be preloaded with unique content tailored to the guest. They also provide that festival-style cashless experience where guests can purchase food and drink via their wristbands. The beauty of these products is that they’re also GDPR compliant, with data only shared digitally with specific users.

4. Live streaming is just getting bigger

Live streaming isn’t a new event concept. In fact, it’s been around for more than a decade. It’s the way it’s being used that’s changing. A trend that is set to continue is the use of live streaming at conferences. Organisers are putting in much more to create a complete event experience for remote viewers, including multiple camera angles, live Q&A for audience participation and even sessions and breaks to deliver that real live-event feel.

New-to-market cameras which are able to stream directly to the web, coupled with the rise of platforms able to host webcasts such as Vimeo, are helping to make the process even easier too. What’s more, the combination of webcasting and video conference has reached a new level, with new technology such as Wirecast helping to bring in remote presenters. It’s official. Live streaming is no longer just an add on. It now forms a major part of the event.

3. No more wires

Everyone hates the sight of wires, but they’ve always been a necessary evil when it comes to making live events work. So the introduction of more wireless kit will be welcome news for technical managers and event organisers alike. Battery-powered uplighters are already commonly used at live events and, with DMX controls going wireless, these can be more versatile and creative than ever. But other technology is going wireless too. The Sennheiser LSP 500 speaker is the new kid on the block when it comes to wireless speakers. Perfect for all sorts of events, particularly when you’re looking for that slick, clean feel…

2. Projection is back with a bang

Projection will be back in the spotlight in 2020 thanks to the release of a new generation of laser projectors. Several impressive models have been introduced in the past year or so, which could mean we start to see a resurgence of the use of projection following the notable switch to LED. Laser projection is proving popular because it’s far more reliable than conventional options. Aside from that, it’s more cost-effective and requires less maintenance than other display solutions available. Unlike other options, you can also get really creative, tapping into things like projection mapping.

1. LED technology is growing up

LED lighting is becoming much more sophisticated. We already know the benefits; it’s energy-efficient, eco-friendly and offers less downtime. But a longstanding issue for production managers is that the colour isn’t quite there – it can often look too cool or harsh. More intelligent light fixtures are getting the LED treatment though, with traditional profile fixtures and generic stage wash fixtures getting upgraded. Take the Chauvet Ovation. It’s an LED Fresnel which instead of delivering a standard 500 watts, packs just 145 watts… offering savings for the environment and the budget.

Chris Trim is hire desk manager at Sparq.


Have your say

or a new account to join the discussion.