As previously mentioned, I participated in the SCUP event in Chicago during July, 2015. Keep in mind this event does not focus on technology. I thought it might be appropriate to share some of my insights regarding the use of technology at such a conference.
First, the wifi was great. Easy to connect to (with a username and password) and relatively robust. This is how it should be at every event. I was pleased to see this at SCUP. It was sufficient for me to use Periscope to live broadcast parts of certain events. An example is shown in the video below (originally sent as a Periscope) reviewing the 50 years of SCUP history.
SCUP from Mark DuBois on Vimeo.
50 years overview
Next, there was an inherent understanding of how technology can be effectively applied during an event. Instead of handing out massive paper documents outlining each session, we were instructed to download the Guidebook app (there are both Android and iOS versions). We could then review our schedule. Yes, there was to option to create yet another account, but one could simply bypass that in Guidebook and just view the schedule. I included a couple of screen captures of this app (which was not created just for this event). First, you can see all the pieces at a moment’s notice. There are a number of options when you open the SCUP specific guidebook (shown below).
When you tap on the “My schedule” option, you clearly see the events you have selected as well as the location. That is shown in the screen capture below. If you wanted more information, you simply tapped on each session and could then see the session details as well as learning objectives and much more.
Additionally, there was a specific hashtag for the event #SCUP50 to make it easy to track tweets and more. Strategically located throughout the event floor space were monitors showing images of presenters as well as specific tweets (using the above hashtag). A view of the monitor is shown below.
The event organizers also understood the value of social media. This actually allowed me to connect with some of the keynote speakers after the event. I also met some of the event organizers in person. They approached me and told me I looked like my avatar. I found this incredibly refreshing. Especially since this was not a technology based event.
Lastly, I found it interesting to observe that throughout the exhibit space, there were displays on the floor signifying certain moments in history. A couple of pertinent examples are shown below.
Since this was the first event I have attended in some time, I found it impressive that technology was effectively employed throughout the event. It was embedded. I am curious about your experiences at non-technology conferences. Have they been similar to this?
Loading ...
