Breaking Down the Myths Behind Event Tech
We live in the digital age, and several industries are leading the charge in harnessing technology to do more with less. Yet, the wedding and events industry—usually an innovator—lags behind in its appreciation for virtual solutions. Many industry professionals still employ outdated techniques that are better left in the 2000s and before.
Now, this is not to say there’s anything wrong with pen and paper or using a spreadsheet to organize your projects. They just aren’t the most efficient methods anymore. In a world where every minute has a cost, streamlined digital solutions are the key to a more productive and profitable business.
Many myths surrounding event tech are used as excuses for sticking with old, clumsy habits that hold you back more than anything else. Here are the four most common myths – and why they’re completely false.
It’s too expensive.
Cost is usually one of the biggest objections to adopting new event tech, but there are many options available to the industry at every budget level. Technology has never been cheaper so now is the time to make a jump. Plus, tech solutions will free up your schedule, so consider how much time you can reallocate to profit-driving activities in your business. Instead of thinking of it as “just another expense,” start seeing digital tools as an investment in the future growth of your business. Would you spend $100 if you knew you would get $1,000 in return? Of course, you would. This is how technology works and why it’s successful.
It will overwhelm clients.
When client experience is such a big part of our businesses, it’s understandable to worry that new changes will disrupt the flow and leave clients confused and overwhelmed. But, it’s actually quite the contrary! Updating your workflows with event tech platforms will improve their experience by making the process simple to understand. Remember today’s clients are tech-savvy and used to technology that makes their lives easier. Today’s wedding tech is streamlined, collaborative, and easy to use — your clients will love it.
It will be too hard to implement.
Adopting new technology can seem like an overwhelming task. But, in most cases, it’s rather simple to get started with new software or app. Today’s developers focus heavily on user experience, understanding that everyone is on a different level. As a result, most of the software on the market is designed to be user-friendly for everyone. It might take some time to build it into your workflow, but it will end up making your life much easier and save you time in the process.
I don’t need it.
You might be thinking that your business is operating smoothly enough that you don’t even need to touch it. Nothing is broken, so what is there to fix? But the reality is that we live in a tech-dependent world. Innovation leads to success; resistance leads to failure. If your competitors are using tech to attract modern clients and maximize the 24 hours in each day, shouldn’t you be right there with them?
Now that you know the reality of event tech, your next step is to consider where to start. What will make an impact on your business and your client experience? Once you begin to reap the benefits, you’ll soon be looking for digital solutions to all of your needs!
Elizabeth Sheils is the co-founder of Rock Paper Coin, the first software platform to bring together wedding planners, couples, and vendors into one system for managing and paying contracts and invoices. Elizabeth is also a lead wedding planner with award-winning firm Bridal Bliss, where she manages the Seattle team. She was recently recognized by Special Events in its Top 25 Event Pros to Watch series.
