In the fast-paced world of events, mobile event apps and conference apps have become strategic powerhouses. They create an environment where engagement and personalization soar, ensuring that every update or networking opportunity reaches your audience in the blink of an eye[^1^].
According to studies, 83% of event organizers use a mobile event app to silently orchestrate behind-the-scenes, track real-time interactions, and collect actionable analytics[^1^]. With the right event app or conference app, you can turn an ordinary event into an extraordinary one. But with so many options available, how do you find the app that best suits your needs?
Why You Need a Mobile Event App
Mobile event apps are not just a luxury; they are a necessity in today's event landscape. Whether you run hundreds or thousands of events a year or work in high-touch industries such as life sciences, pharmaceuticals, professional services, finance, or technology, a mobile event app is a must-have[^2^].
Event apps offer a range of benefits, including:
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Event Schedule and Networking: Event schedule apps keep all the important details in one place, eliminating the need for leafing through pamphlets or searching emails for schedules, maps, and contact info. Additionally, event networking apps facilitate connections between attendees, making it easier to network with like-minded people.
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Engagement: Enterprise event apps offer features such as live polling, Q&A sessions, photo sharing, and push notifications, which keep attendees up-to-date and involved. They can ask speakers questions, share thoughts on sessions, and connect around common interests.
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Eco-Friendly: Mobile conference apps reduce the need for printing programs, maps, and other handouts, making them a greener alternative.
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Analytics: Mobile event platforms provide valuable insights such as the most popular sessions, most engaged attendees, and other data that can help improve future events.
Event apps revolutionize the in-person event experience. If you're hosting a global conference or a large event, a well-designed app will make life easier for both you and your attendees. With many great options now available, adding an app to your event has never been simpler[^2^].
What Is a Mobile Event App?
A mobile event app or conference app is a mobile application designed specifically for events, conferences, or meetings. For event organizers, it serves as a central hub for everything happening at the event and provides valuable insights and data about attendees. For attendees, it acts as a guide to navigate the event, providing access to schedules, sessions, speakers, exhibitors, and more[^3^].
A mobile event app offers attendees:
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Agendas and Schedules: Attendees can access the full agenda and personalized schedules, ensuring they never miss an important session or keynote. They can also bookmark favorites and receive reminders before each session.
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Speaker Bios and Session Descriptions: Attendees can learn more about speakers and session topics, helping them choose which talks to attend.
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Exhibitor and Sponsor Listings: The app provides information about exhibitors and sponsors, including booth numbers, product info, and promo codes, making it easy to locate vendors of interest.
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Venue Maps: Maps help attendees navigate the event venue and find rooms, food options, networking lounges, and other facilities.
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Notifications: Attendees receive real-time updates about any schedule changes, announcements, or event updates through push notifications.
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Surveys, Polls, and Q&A Features: Interactive features enable attendees to participate in surveys, polls, and Q&A sessions, fostering engagement and making events more collaborative.
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Activity Feeds: Attendees can connect and engage with other participants through a social media-like activity feed, creating a dynamic and interactive stream of posts and discussions.
A mobile event app enhances the event experience for both attendees and organizers, serving as a comprehensive resource and community long after the live event ends[^3^].
How to Choose a Mobile Event App: Key Features to Consider
With countless options available in the market, choosing the right mobile event app can be overwhelming. To help you make an informed decision, here are key features you should look for:
Interactive Tools That Keep Audiences Engaged
Event apps should offer interactive tools to keep participants engaged before, during, and after the event. Features like activity feeds, networking capabilities, and content libraries offer opportunities for attendees to connect, interact, and familiarize themselves with event details. By engaging participants throughout the event lifecycle, you can create a truly immersive and memorable experience[^4^].
Insightful Event Analytics and Data with High-Level Security
Collecting and analyzing data is crucial for evaluating the success of an event. Look for an event app that offers robust event analytics and reporting features. The app should provide comprehensive insights into attendee engagement, session popularity, and other metrics to help improve future events. Additionally, prioritize a mobile conference app that prioritizes security and complies with IT security and compliance regulations[^5^].
Deep Native Integrations with CRM Systems/MAPs
Integrations with Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems and Marketing Automation Platforms (MAPs) are essential to streamline event data and customer relationship management. Seek an event app that seamlessly integrates with your existing CRM and MAP tools, automating data transfer and enabling a more holistic view of customer interactions. This ensures that event data is accurately captured and analyzed to drive effective marketing strategies[^6^].
Customization to Showcase Your Brand
Choose an app that allows for customization to match your brand identity and create a seamless experience. Look for options to personalize the event app's design, color schemes, and menu options. A well-branded app strengthens your brand presence and reinforces your event's professionalism and credibility[^7^].
Quick Setup That Doesn't Require a Professional Event App Developer
Consider an event app that offers easy-to-use templates or preset customizable configurations. These options allow event organizers to set up the app quickly and efficiently without requiring technical expertise. Look for an app that enables you to personalize templates to reflect your brand identity and tailor the user experience to your event[^8^].
Activity Feed with a Social Media-Like Layout and Interface
An event app with a social media-like activity feed provides a familiar and engaging user experience for attendees. The feed allows participants to like, comment, and reply to posts, fostering interaction and collaboration. A social media-like layout enhances the attendee experience and encourages active participation during the event[^9^].
Personalizable Agendas That Are Easy to Use
Mobile event app agendas offer convenience and organization by centralizing all event-related information. Attendees can create personalized agendas, bookmark sessions, and access session details. Look for an app that simplifies session management, particularly for large events with concurrent sessions. Easy access to personalized agendas helps attendees maximize their event experience[^10^].
A Chat Function That Feels as Fluid as Texting or Instant Messaging
Choose an app that provides a chat feature for attendees to interact with speakers, technical support, and other participants. A user-friendly chat function fosters networking, facilitates discussions, and encourages real-time engagement. Look for an app that allows for both private and group chats, mimicking the ease of texting or instant messaging[^11^].
Smooth Check-In That Creates a Great First Impression
A hassle-free check-in process sets the tone for a positive attendee experience. Consider an app that offers quick check-in using personal QR codes on mobile devices. This eliminates the need for manual check-in and enhances the efficiency of event entry. Look for features like QR code scanners and badge printers to empower attendees to check themselves in easily[^12^].
Networking Tools to Build Lasting Relationships
Networking capabilities are essential for fostering attendee connections and harnessing the full potential of an event. Look for an app that provides networking tools such as attendee-to-attendee contact exchange, matchmaking suggestions, and virtual meeting scheduling[^13^]. These features facilitate meaningful interactions and enable participants to connect, collaborate, and build lasting relationships.
Lead Capture Tool to Capture High-Quality Leads Fast
Consider an event app with a lead capture tool to easily scan, qualify, and rate leads. This tool allows you, sponsors, and exhibitors to track engaged leads in real-time, eliminating the risk of lost or inconsistent data. Look for an app that simplifies lead follow-up, measures event ROI, and provides comprehensive reports to assess team performance[^14^].
Meeting Scheduler for Sales Reps
If your event focuses on sales and customer acquisition, a meeting scheduler feature is essential. Look for an app that allows sales representatives to book rooms and invite participants for 1:1 meetings during the event. Meeting schedulers improve sales opportunities and help foster meaningful connections between attendees and sales teams[^15^].
Multiple Events on a Single Mobile Event App
If you frequently host multiple events throughout the year, consider an app that supports multiple events within a single platform. This feature eliminates the need for attendees to download multiple conference apps and streamlines the experience across all your events. Attendees will appreciate the familiarity of the app and its seamless user experience[^16^].
Unparalleled User Experience (UX) Layouts for Different Event Types
User experience is crucial in ensuring that attendees have a positive and memorable event experience. Look for an app that offers optimized UX layouts and interfaces tailored to different event types. User-friendly and intuitive interfaces enhance attendee satisfaction and encourage post-event loyalty and engagement[^17^].
How to Choose a Mobile Event App Vendor
Choosing the right mobile event app vendor is just as important as selecting the app itself. Here are some steps to guide you in making the right choice:
Do Your Research
Research different vendors that specialize in your event type, industry, and event size. Check their client lists and read reviews to determine the best fit for your needs. Consider your priorities and specific requirements when narrowing down your options[^18^].
Request Demos
Once you have a shortlist of vendors, request demos of their products. Evaluate the functionality, ease of use, design, and overall experience of their event apps. Consider which conference app meshes well with your event goals and which you believe attendees would prefer[^19^].
Ask About Support
Consider the level of support each vendor provides for setting up and managing your event app. Inquire about design services, training for your team, and technical support during the event. The availability of a dedicated account manager and 24/7 customer service can make a significant difference in the overall event experience[^20^].
Compare Pricing
Event app pricing can vary based on features and the vendor's pricing structure. Consider the different pricing models, such as per event, subscriptions, or additional fees for premium features. Compare quotes from different vendors to make an informed decision based on both cost and value[^21^].
Think Long-Term
Consider your future event needs and the benefits of establishing a long-term relationship with a vendor. Some vendors offer services for various types of events, such as annual conferences, product launches, and regional meetups. Choosing a vendor that aligns with your strategic goals and understands your event requirements can make planning future events more efficient and seamless[^22^].
Choosing the right event app vendor requires careful consideration and research. By thoroughly vetting vendors and assessing their offerings, you can find a partner who will help you deliver successful events year after year[^22^].
Why SpotMe Is the Best Mobile Event App
When it comes to delivering engaging onsite events, every interaction matters. SpotMe is the go-to mobile event app for companies in high-touch industries such as life sciences and pharma. With over 20 years of experience, SpotMe prioritizes engagement, personalization, and attendee experience like no other[^23^].
Here's why SpotMe stands out as the best mobile event app:
Engage Participants Like Never Before
SpotMe's omnichannel event experience helps you meet attendees where they are, creating a personalized journey for each participant. Trusted by top life sciences and pharma companies like GSK, Sanofi, and Takeda, SpotMe delivers engaging digital-first experiences that are fully compliant and secure[^23^].
With a wide range of interactive features, SpotMe enables event organizers to engage attendees throughout the event lifecycle. From interactive agendas and live polling to Q&A sessions and photo sharing, SpotMe ensures attendees enjoy relevant and engaging content at their fingertips.
Get First-Party Insights Fast with Deep CRM Integrations
SpotMe understands the value of data in event marketing. With native integrations with CRM systems and MAPs like Veeva, HubSpot, Marketo, Salesforce, and Rainfocus, SpotMe automates data collection and analysis, simplifying the process for event marketers. By leveraging event data, you can drive effective marketing strategies and make informed decisions[^24^].
SpotMe Is Always on Hand to Help
SpotMe not only offers an intuitive mobile event app but also exceptional event technology support services. With over 100 certified event professionals worldwide, SpotMe provides industry-specific expertise to help you deliver flawless events. From event app creation to live production coordination and onsite attendee help desks, SpotMe's professional services ensure smooth event operations[^25^].
Give SpotMe's Mobile Event App a Try
SpotMe's fully branded and compliant mobile event app is designed to create engaging events that audiences love. By equipping your event organizers with the digital tools they need, you can keep attendee engagement high and gain detailed insights into participant behavior. With SpotMe's battle-tested professional services, delivering smooth events with a flawless user experience has never been easier[^26^].
To harness the power of SpotMe's mobile event app, request a demo today.
Want to Know More About SpotMe's Products & Services? Take a Look!
- Mobile event app
- In-person event platform
- Congress companion app
- Hybrid event platform
- Professional event services
- Virtual event platform
- Omnichannel life sciences event platform
- Webinar platform
- Event registration
- On-demand content platform
- Check-in & badging
- Reporting & analytics[^27^]
FAQ
Q: What are the best mobile conference and event apps for 2024? A: There are numerous mobile event apps available in the market. Some top options include SpotMe, Whova, Airmeet, Bizzabo, PheedLoop, Core-apps, EventBase, Guidebook, Evenium ConnexMe, Eventee, Hopin, Swapcard, Accelevents, Eventmobi, Webex Events App, Stova, BigMarker, 6Connex, Certain Touchpoint,
