
Event formats
In recent years, the event industry has undergone significant development. This has resulted in the emergence of many new event formats. Together with the tried-and-tested, classic formats, these also pursue the goal of encouraging participants to get involved and engage in creative exchange using a results-oriented approach. Event formats include:
What event formats are there?
These are the most popular event formats:
Barcamp/Theme camp
A barcamp/theme camp is not about individuals or specific products. Instead, the focus is on exchange, discussion, shared interests, and above all, enjoyment of the topic area.
Unlike traditional conferences and trade fairs, a Barcamp has no set program or prepared presentations. It is up to the participants to take the initiative, offer workshops, moderate discussions, or propose topics for discussion. No two camps are alike, as their success, excitement, and informational content depend entirely on the participation of the attendees.
Symposium
A symposium is a scientific conference at which scientists present and discuss the results of their research. This event usually focuses on a specific topic and is therefore a special subgroup of a conference. The structure is similar to that of a conference, but the focus is on a more homogeneous group of participants. Participants in this multi-day event take advantage of the opportunity to stay up to date on the latest scientific developments in their field.
A symposium also provides an opportunity to establish and deepen contacts with colleagues in the same field. Since symposia feature presentations on specially selected topics by scientists and other speakers, this event format is best suited to well-equipped venues such as conference hotels or convention centers.
Conference
A conference brings together a relatively small group of participants with the aim of exchanging information about the latest developments, for example in the field of research, and presenting innovations. The one-day event primarily consists of lectures and presentations, but is also used to establish, maintain, and expand professional networks.
Meeting
A meeting consists of at least two people who work together on a project and exchange information about it. The synchronous participation of the attendees, regardless of whether they gather in one place or participate interactively via the web, characterizes the meeting event format.
Workshop
Workshops are particularly useful when it comes to exchanging ideas and working in smaller groups of up to 25 participants. A speaker takes on the role of moderator and guides the creative process of the group work. This format is more suitable for physical events, as it is easier to achieve results through discipline and structured thinking and action than it is in a virtual setting.
When using a digital format, it is essential to keep groups as small as possible, otherwise some participants may become silent and only watch passively.
Themed party
All companies strive to set themselves apart from the competition. One way to achieve this is through corporate events. A particularly suitable event format for this purpose is the themed party.
When choosing a theme, factors such as the target audience, the company philosophy, or the product being promoted should be taken into account. Unlike a corporate event with customers, a purely internal theme party can be organized in a more relaxed manner. No matter which theme you ultimately choose, it is guaranteed to be a memorable event.
Panel discussion
The classic panel discussion revolves around a set topic, which several speakers discuss on stage. A moderator is also present to structure the discussion and ensure that speaking times are adhered to.
A virtual panel discussion is slightly different. The speakers gather for a live stream either in a recording studio or are connected by the moderator from their respective home offices. Here, too, care is taken to ensure that the schedule is adhered to.
It is also possible to open the discussion to interaction between participants. In this case, the moderator monitors the audience's live chat and brings up any questions that arise in the discussion.
Product presentation
As the name suggests, a product presentation is the introduction of a new product. Those present are given all the information about the new product.
There are no limits to the presentation of a new product. However, it is important that the chosen format suits the product and therefore also the target group, as this is the only way to convey the added value of the new product in an emotional way.
The aim of this format is to convince as many attendees as possible of the benefits of the product and encourage them to buy it. The event focuses primarily on the needs of potential buyers.
Roadshow
Roadshows are large-scale information events at which products, services, or knowledge content are presented to a larger audience. In order to reach as many people as possible, companies often organize roadshows in several cities or regions over a longer period of time, similar to a music group's tour.
Products and companies come to customers in the form of a national or international tour, on several dates, in different locations, and in different designs and formats. The event format enables companies to strengthen their own branding and increase brand awareness.
In addition, roadshows generate new customers and promote loyalty among the existing customer base. This type of product presentation is particularly popular with companies that offer products, brands, or services that require intensive consultation or explanation, such as technology groups, pharmaceutical and healthcare companies, consumer goods companies, or country representatives.
Seminar
Seminars provide targeted knowledge on a specific topic. Participants cover this topic in a compact form and, thanks to small groups, can engage in close dialogue with the speakers.
Seminars often build on each other and take place at regular intervals. This format can be held both in person and online. Seminars usually last one day, sometimes several, and include a theoretical part, interactive phases, and discussions.
Training, education
Training or education are measures of continuing vocational training within the framework of personnel development. External trainers often take on the task of training employees on the company's own premises.
So-called in-house training is tailored to specific internal needs. The same applies to outdoor team training, whereby the name already reveals that this training takes place outdoors. In daily interactions, disharmony can arise within the workforce. Teams that want to improve their cooperation take advantage of outdoor training opportunities.
Other types of training are offered to employees by management as part of continuing vocational training. These are often held at larger events such as trade fairs, conferences, or festivals. In this case, participants receive training in very specific areas. Employees or trainees complete short training courses on occupational health and safety topics and as part of their training, which are referred to as instruction sessions.