Classic. Classic is warm, perhaps a warmth that radiates through the vicissitudes of time. And to build a classic and bring her on the road? That, too, is a patience born of time.
“She’s here now,” Naph chuckled, pride unmistakable as he spoke of the E500, a project a month in the making. The boy had his toy.
A much sought-after developer and founder of NaphStack, Naphtali understands that building a strong product demands patience, especially in the fast-evolving events management space, which is rapidly shifting from basic ticketing tools to AI-driven platforms that handle everything from registration to post-event analytics.
Naturally, my curiosity took over. I couldn’t resist picking his mind on what event managers should consider when selecting software to streamline the planning, execution, and analysis of in-person, virtual, or hybrid events.
“There are basic features that define a good platform,” he began. “But before anything else, a developer must secure reliable hosting and ensure the code itself can withstand the product’s operational demands.”
Naphtali advises event managers to prioritize platforms that streamline operations, enhance attendee satisfaction, and deliver measurable return on investment.
Core Must-Have Features
These foundational elements form the backbone of any reliable event management platform:
• Attendee Registration and Ticketing: Customizable forms, multi-tier pricing (early bird, VIP), secure payment gateways, automated confirmations, and easy add-on integrations.
• Agenda Building and Session Management: Drag-and-drop scheduling, multi-track support, and speaker management portals.
• Real-Time Analytics and Reporting: Dashboards that track registrations, engagement, attendance rates, and post-event surveys to measure success and ROI.
• CRM Integrations: Seamless connections with tools such as Salesforce for lead capture, nurturing, and data synchronization.
• Mobile Event Apps: Branded attendee apps featuring push notifications, live polling, networking tools, and personalized agendas.
• Data Security and Compliance: GDPR-compliant systems, encryption, and secure data handling to protect attendee information.
Emerging Needs for Safer, Smarter Events
Looking ahead, Naphtali notes that hybrid formats are set to dominate as health and safety considerations continue to shape event design.
“The focus is now on advanced capabilities,” he explains.
• Contactless Check-Ins and QR Scanning: Touch-free entry via mobile QR codes, reducing queues and improving safety. Many platforms now include badge printing and on-site lead retrieval.
• Health and Safety Tools: Capacity monitoring and basic screening integrations remain relevant for physical events.
• AI-Powered Enhancements: Personalized session recommendations, smart networking matchmaking, predictive attendance analytics, and automated communications.
• Hybrid and Virtual Support: Livestreaming, interactive polls and Q&A, virtual booths, and unified experiences for both on-site and remote audiences.
There’s much more I would have loved to share, dear reader, but my coffee has arrived. Stay tuned for more insights on how to become a true wizard in the events community.
