Top Event App Features for Events & Conferences

You’ve probably heard that you need an event app, assuming you’re not already using one. Knowing that you need something isn’t the same as knowing which available option will solve your problem.

To make your life easier and elevate the event experience for your attendees, we’ve compiled a rundown of the ideal event app features to enhance your events and conferences. We’ve also included a sampling of frequently asked questions that our team fields regularly.

By digesting all this knowledge, event managers like yourself will be positioned to source the best event app solution.

Let’s start with the basics — a breakdown of the non-negotiable features that should be built into your event app.

What Should an Event App Include?

Experienced event organizers know that an efficient app can streamline logistics, enhance attendee engagement, and provide valuable insights. On the other hand, the right app can transform the event experience for attendees by offering seamless navigation, personalized recommendations, and real-time updates.

To deliver on either (both!) of these promises, your event app should feature the following fundamental components and functionalities:

• User-Friendly Interface: An intuitive design ensures easy navigation.
• Personalized Recommendations: Tailored suggestions enhance user experience.
• Registration and Ticketing: Simplifies the process of attending the event.
• Event Listings: Provides comprehensive information about all event activities.
• Networking Tools: Facilitates connections among attendees.
• Schedule Management: Helps attendees manage their time effectively.
• Interactive Maps: Assists with venue navigation.
• Social Media Integration: Expands event reach and engagement.
• Push Notifications: Keeps attendees informed with real-time updates.
• Live Polls and Surveys: Engages attendees and collects feedback.
• Analytics, Insights, and Reporting: Offers valuable data to organizers.
• Accessibility Features: Ensures inclusivity for all users.
• Security and Privacy: Protects user data and maintains trust.

The Best App Features for Your Event in 2024

As we move into 2024, event apps must evolve to incorporate the latest technologies and user expectations. These are the most effective features that your event app should include to enhance user experience and engagement:

User-Friendly Interface

A seamless and intuitive interface is crucial for both event organizers and attendees. The app should offer a clean design, easy navigation, and accessible menus. This ensures that users can quickly find the information they need without any frustration, enhancing overall user satisfaction.

“I have to say your app is great and very user-friendly. I’m not the best candidate with technology but was able to see my materials remotely afterwards from my phone. GREAT USE OF technology esp. for a recycling conference!” — Brad Gardner, Pasquotank County Solid Waste Director

Personalized Recommendations

Leveraging data analytics, event apps can provide personalized recommendations for sessions, exhibitors, or networking opportunities. By analyzing user preferences and behavior, the app can suggest relevant activities, making the event experience more engaging and tailored to individual needs.

Registration and Ticketing

An integrated registration and ticketing system simplify the user’s journey from interest to attendance. The app should allow users to register for the event, purchase tickets, and manage their attendance effortlessly. This feature not only enhances user convenience but also streamlines the organizer’s workflow.

Event Listings

Comprehensive event listings are essential for keeping attendees informed. The app should provide detailed information about all sessions, workshops, and exhibitors, including descriptions, schedules, and locations. This helps attendees plan their experience and ensures they don’t miss out on important activities.

Networking Tools

Facilitating networking is a key aspect of any event. The app should include features like attendee directories, in-app messaging, and matchmaking algorithms that connect like-minded individuals. These tools enhance the networking experience and foster meaningful connections.

Schedule Management

Personalized schedule management tools allow users to create and manage their agendas. Attendees can add sessions, set reminders, and receive updates on any schedule changes. This helps them stay organized and make the most of their time at the event.

Interactive Maps

Navigating a large event venue can be challenging. Interactive maps within the app can guide attendees to session rooms, exhibitor booths, and amenities. These maps should be easy to use and provide real-time updates to help users find their way quickly and efficiently.

Social Media Integration

Integrating social media platforms into the event app allows attendees to share their experiences, connect with others, and increase event visibility. Features like social media feeds, sharing options, and hashtag integration can amplify engagement and create a buzz around the event.

Push Notifications

Timely push notifications keep attendees informed about important updates, reminders, and announcements. Whether it’s a change in the schedule, a new session addition, or an emergency alert, push notifications ensure that attendees are engaged and always in the loop.

Live Polls and Surveys

Engage your audience with live polls and surveys during sessions. This interactive feature not only keeps attendees involved but also provides valuable feedback to organizers. Real-time polling can gauge audience opinions, and surveys can collect insights to improve future events.

Analytics, Insights, and Reporting

For event organizers, having access to detailed analytics and reporting is crucial. The app should offer insights into user engagement, session popularity, and overall event success. This data helps organizers make informed decisions and enhance future events.

Accessibility Features

To ensure inclusivity, the event app must incorporate accessibility features. This includes compatibility with screen readers, adjustable font sizes, and alternative text for images. Such features ensure that all attendees, including those with disabilities, can fully participate in the event.

Security and Privacy

Data security and user privacy are paramount. The app should implement robust security measures like encryption, secure login protocols, and user consent mechanisms. Compliance with relevant regulations, such as GDPR, is essential to maintain user trust and protect sensitive information.

“Core-apps was able to accommodate everything we needed from our event apps with the app functionality and design, as well as responsiveness for any questions. … Attendee feedback was overwhelmingly positive.” — Sander R., Director of Marketing and Communications

Frequently Asked Questions about Event Mobile App Features

To provide you with a quick reference about the advantages of using an event app, including which features in particular enhance the event experience, check out the following questions that we’re asked on a consistent basis.

What are the essential features of an event app?

As we’ve outlined, essential event app features include a user-friendly interface, personalized recommendations, registration and ticketing, comprehensive event listings, networking tools, schedule management, interactive maps, social media integration, push notifications, live polls and surveys, analytics and reporting, accessibility features, and robust security and privacy measures.

How do event app features, like personalized recommendations, benefit attendees?

Personalized recommendations enhance the event experience by suggesting sessions, exhibitors, and networking opportunities that align with individual attendee interests and preferences, making the event more relevant and engaging for all involved.

Why is schedule management important in an event app?

Schedule management tools help attendees plan their time effectively, ensuring they don’t miss important sessions and can manage their agenda efficiently. This feature contributes to a more organized and enjoyable event experience.

How do networking tools in an event app benefit attendees?

Networking tools facilitate connections among attendees by providing directories, in-app messaging, and matchmaking algorithms. These features enhance the networking experience, allowing attendees to meet and interact with like-minded individuals.

What role do push notifications play in an event app?

Push notifications provide timely updates and reminders, keeping attendees informed about important changes, announcements, and events. This ensures that attendees are always aware of what’s happening and can adjust their plans accordingly.

How do analytics and reporting features help event organizers?

Analytics and reporting features provide organizers with valuable insights into user engagement, session popularity, and overall event performance. This data helps organizers make informed decisions, improve future events, and demonstrate the event’s success to stakeholders.

Which event app feature can be monetized?

Monetizing an event app can be approached in various ways, depending on the target audience, type of events, and the app’s overall strategy. Here are several features that can be monetized, which will generate new revenue streams for your next event:

• Ticket Sales and Processing Fees:
  • Charge a convenience fee for purchasing tickets through the app.
  • Offer premium or early-bird ticket options at a higher price.
• In-App Advertising:
  • Allow sponsors to place ads within the app.
  • Use banner ads, video ads, and sponsored content to generate revenue.
• Premium Listings and Promotions for Event Organizers:
  • Charge event organizers to have their events featured or promoted within the app.
  • Offer premium listings that appear at the top of search results or on the home screen.
• Subscription Plans:
  • Offer subscription-based access to exclusive content, early ticket releases, or premium features.
  • Provide different tiers of subscription with varying levels of access and benefits.
• Virtual Event Features:
  • Charge for access to virtual events, including live streaming, on-demand content, and virtual meet-and-greets.
  • Offer virtual booths for sponsors during virtual conferences and expos.
• Merchandise Sales:
  • Sell event-related merchandise directly through the app.
  • Partner with event organizers to offer exclusive merchandise.
• Networking and Matchmaking Services:
  • Offer premium networking features such as advanced matchmaking, direct messaging, and access to exclusive networking events.
  • Charge a fee for access to VIP networking lounges or events.
• Data and Analytics Services:
  • Provide event organizers with detailed analytics and reports on attendee behavior and engagement for a fee.
  • Offer insights and marketing data that can help organizers improve future events.
• In-App Purchases:
  • Allow attendees to purchase upgrades, such as VIP passes, exclusive sessions, or additional event materials.
  • Offer digital content like e-books, recordings of past events, or exclusive interviews.
• Event Planning and Management Tools:
  • Provide advanced tools for event organizers, such as ticket management, attendee tracking, and marketing tools for a subscription fee.
  • Offer consulting or event planning services through the app.
• Exclusive Access and Experiences:
  • Offer access to exclusive experiences, such as backstage passes, meet-and-greets, or special sessions for an additional fee.
  • Provide access to exclusive parties or events within the event.

By combining several of these monetization strategies, an event app can create multiple revenue streams while enhancing the value it provides to both attendees and event organizers.

Explore Your Curated Event App with Core-Apps

A well-rounded event app with robust features can significantly enhance the experience for both organizers and attendees, ensuring a successful and memorable event.

As we embrace the advancements of 2024, of contemporary event technology, integrating these top features into your event app will set you apart and drive engagement and satisfaction.

Curious to see how Core-Apps works? Request your demo today!