When planning out your next major event, there’s one element that can make or break it: connectivity. With the growing demand for Wi-Fi comes a greater need for stable internet and dedicated data.
Without it, vendors and participants are limited to the capabilities of the venue or their own data plans, which may not be enough to handle the traffic.
Most venues don’t have adequate Wi-Fi capabilities for significant usage. As a result, bandwidth gets clogged and data transfers slow to a crawl. In some cases, outdoor events are extremely limited.
So, people interested in live-streaming an event, checking out online product demonstrations, or simply staying connected to the world outside aren’t able to make the most of the experience.
There are key points to consider on a venue that allows a greater level of internet connectivity. Some venues may have served large numbers in the past, but was the coverage adequate? Were the data transfer speeds sluggish?
Did the network keep up with the demand? You can ask questions like this upfront, but when the time comes for your event, you might be better off to budget and planning for a dedicated mobile hotspot service instead.
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Things to care about while hosting an Event through a Dedicated Data connection.
Determine the Need
By estimating the number of participants, you can budget the cost of WiFi hotspots for events and determine the range and demand for users. Some venues may have had experience in the past with many participants, but increasing demand for data means prior capabilities may not meet current demand.
It’s important to keep in mind that people often carry cell phones, tablets, laptops, and smartwatches, so the device load should be considered as well. You can count on 30-50% more devices than there are people at an event.
Lock in the Location
Wireless service is only widespread as the connection points. Make sure you account for the range of each Wi-Fi router in addition to the demand on the network. If people are limited by location, they may spend more time and attention finding the access points rather than enjoying the event.
By making sure your coverage is adequate, participants will have one less distraction and focus more on the vendors and activities at hand. Vendors also will need to have ready access so they aren’t limited by their booth or stage location.
Plan for Peak Times
Events often have times of high traffic and times of low traffic. Gauge your usage and peak times to best meet the needs at the time. By securing adequate coverage according to the need, you can budget better and provide better service to everyone at your event.
Work with an on-site engineer to determine when and where the greatest demands will be based on your event schedule and participation levels.
Share the Key
One of the greatest benefits of managed Wi-Fi at an event is secured access. Your attendees will get the added benefit of dedicated, secure internet, but only if you provide the password. Most hotels, for example, will share the Wi-Fi password only after a guest is checked in and generally receive the password with the room key.
For your event, this same tactic can prove very effective. People checking in to your event will have access while others are left out. This way, your data management plan remains dedicated to the people attending and isn’t bogged down by bystanders.
By choosing a dedicated Wi-Fi for an event, vendors can better demonstrate products, engage sales, and share information. Participants can be more engaged with the event, share the event experience with others, and encourage others to attend in the future. So for the best success when setting up a major event, make sure to cover connectivity.
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