A digital future

Catie Owen speaks to Craig Hunter, head of global marketing at Catalytic Solutions, about the event-tech trends organisers should keep an eye on Can you give us an overview of what Catalytic does for the MICE industry? Catalytic has developed a suite of event management tools that deliver software automation and efficiency to event organisers. One of those tools is called DeleGate, and it’s custom-built to service the demands of managing conferences and corporate functions. The platform offers functionality through four integrated modules. The first is ‘RSVP’, which covers the automation and digital management of all invitation, RSVP, ticketing processes, delegate management, and access controls through a digital platform. The second module is ‘PLAN’. This reduces planning time for event seating and general precinct management through a real-time interface. It also manages live content management, booking, invoicing, and everything else. We have ‘SCAN’ – the module which covers ticket validation and messaging, with visual interface, delegate profile avatar and information. It also manages delegate tracking around the conference venue, and cashless transactions. The final module is ‘SHOP’, which is a digital shop window for speakers and exhibitors. From an event-tech supplier perspective, what is a crucial part of event planning that organisers often neglect or miss? Event organisers seem to be trapped in legacy analogue methodology and digital solutions, even in this day and age. For example, look at printed tickets and wristbands, and cumbersome spreadsheets that must be constantly manually updated. Typically, they’re the kind that can only be accessed in an office from a desktop or laptop. With a little bit of innovation and automation, all of that can be managed remotely from a smart device. Otherwise, event organisers just end up working harder – as if managing a conference or show isn’t taxing enough in the first place! What current trends should organisers be taking notice of? Fraud and scams are on the up and up. Printed ticketing systems are particularly vulnerable. With the switch to digital ticketing, you can not only bypass that risk but also go paperless. Doing our part towards sustainability is something modern consumers are very aware of. There is also a real need for better management of staff and crew at events. Especially since many are part-time or contracted. It pays to track who does what best and keep them in circulation. Tech can also help address stress management and mental health, which are important issues for both managers and workers. A quick online stress test can highlight when staff are distressed or approaching burnout. It’s important to stay in the loop with your employees’ welfare, as physical and mental well-being are so often overlooked in the events industry. What’s in the future for Catalytic? We will continue to fine-tune our various suites, but we’re already engaged in developing innovative crew management tools and a standalone stress monitoring app that can be used in almost any industry. There are other projects in the pipeline, but these two are definitely worth looking out for. We believe that code can change the world, so that’s what we’re always going to work towards. The future is digital.