VR at events: Blurring the lines between physical and virtual reality

Virtual Reality is here, and it’s going to revolutionise the event experience.

Brands and events companies are starting to explore the technology’s potential, and the rewards are immense. It enables you to build your brand and engage your audience in unprecedented ways. Here’s why.

Complete immersion
What happens the second one of your prospects puts on a headset? You instantly have their undivided attention. They’re not going to be looking over your shoulder to see who else is around. They’re not going to be exposed to competing brand messaging. You have the ideal opportunity to connect with them in an intense multi-sensory environment.

More accessible than ever before
You no longer need specialist equipment to experience the magical world of VR. It’s now possible to pick up a generic plastic (or cardboard) headset for a few pounds. Combine this with a mobile device (there are plenty of VR apps available on app stores) and you’re all set. Lowering the “entry point” for the technology means VR can be easily incorporated into event budgets.

Reach anyone, at anytime
You can have – literally – no limits to the reach of your campaign. Give delegates a preview of what to expect via an app, building interest and momentum ahead of the big day. If they can’t make the event, you could offer the chance to experience your event from anywhere. Or offer follow-ups, to remind delegates of your offering, and to show others what they missed out on. Here’s how Paul McCartney appeared in a concert, with footage filmed as a “cinematic VR experience”.

Make your first impressions last
Media coverage is still relatively “niche”, with in-depth articles usually limited to the tech sections of mainstream publications. That’s all going to change by late-summer/early autumn, when HTC, Oculus Rift and Sony bring out their consumer headsets. That’s when VR will truly hit the mainstream. And it’s all the more reason to familarise yourself with the technology now. Those that succeed will ensure their brand is automatically ahead of most of their competitors.

Post-event promotion
It can be difficult to take in everything at an event. You may have a packed schedule of engaging speakers lined up – but will your delegates be able to stay all day? You could record the highlights as a VR showreel and distribute afterwards – perhaps as paid-for content. That way you ensure repeated exposure for your brand.

It’s often said that the best way to predict the future is to create it. Harnessing the magic of VR in your event is one surefire way to create a successful future for your brand. And you know what else is great about it? We’re just at the very start of something amazing.

Look at how apps like Periscope are being used to transmit live footage of events. It won’t be long before it’ll be possible to do something similar with Virtual Reality. When that happens… there really will be no limits to your event’s reach. How does that sound? Talk to us to find out how we can make VR happen for you.