Steps to host a Hybrid Virtual Product Launch

 

Firstly, let’s understand what is Hybrid Virtual? A simple way to combine a LIVE (in-person) event with a virtual interface. The Live (in-person) component is recorded in the croma setup and then brought onto the virtual space. The croma feed can be LIVE or Pre-recorded, depending on the format of the virtual event.

 

Hybrid Virtual Format has gained popularity because of the Virtual Product Launches which happened post pandemic. Some big brands who chose this medium are Amazon, Hyundai, Honda, etc. With Hybrid Virtual Events a lot of experimentation is possible, the ideas of creating a real sci-fi event can be achieved very easily and that too in fourth of price.

 

In case you wish to host a Hybrid Virtual Product Launch, here are some quick tips for you!

 

1.     Decide the Theme:
Your CEO could appear in some animated vehicle or the product presentation could be AR or VR enabled. Hybrid Virtual space has too much to experiment. Decide on the objective of your launch event and start listing our possible themes and execution ideas. Do not forget to think out-of-the-box (it is mandatory). Once you have decided on the format and the theme, look for a close reference and meet a virtual event agency.

2.     Decide on Virtual Platform
Make a brief note about your launch event and use it to finalise your virtual event platform. Check their capability and ask for past work, ensure that your agency can handle both - LIVE (croma) and virtual part. For good experience, check for event design options, networking options, load testing reports and most importantly check if their data analytics report has the kind of data you would need.
Platforms which give such services are Dreamcast, Digital Jalebi, Platoo, Brella, Keystone Global and Streamy.

 

3.     Make it Interactive
Don’t make your event a one way communication. Add multiple elements like expert talk, public polls, Q&As, Panel discussions, Virtual booths, etc. Bring industry experts, make them interact with the audience, ask for polls, start a panel discussion - keep your audience engaged.

Also, keep a dedicated one-to-one meeting provision where customers can ask questions and initiate trade or business discussions. Such interactions make the virtual event interactive and gives better ROI.

 

4.     Networking Opportunity
Ensure that your audience/customers have enough networking opportunities. Such interactions make the virtual event more interactive and immersive. Ways to create networking opportunities are - Public and Private chat (video and voice both), Polls, Q&As, Meeting rooms, dedicated networking zones

 

 

5.     Gamification
The new IN thing, add gamification to your Hybrid Virtual Product launch and see the engagement it attracts. You can create a gamification zone with engaging content about the brand and the product being launched. A very simple way to increase brand awareness.

 

6.     Market it well
Both before and after the event, market your Hybrid Virtual Product launch well. Your marketing strategy should include enough avenues to reach out to your customers across all locations. After your customers have attended the event, use the data to understand their behaviour, preferences and most importantly for re-marketing.