Breaking Down Simulated Live and the Benefits of Pre-Recording Your Virtual or Hybrid Conference
So what does ‘simulated live’ really mean? Don’t worry, we got you. Get ready for a crash course in pre-recorded content delivery options (such as simulated live), and their extensive benefits in the virtual world. Deciding what style is best for your event, key costs and pros and cons to consider are covered in this quick read which will leave you with a much clearer understanding of the options and answers as you head into your next meeting.
Simulated-Live
Essentially, the best of both worlds for a virtual event! A simulated live event is typically open to the audience on a specific date and time, however, all (or the majority) of content is pre-recorded with impressive and visually pleasing graphics, multiple screen viewings, animation, music and seamless transitions. Therefore, it gives the essence of being “Live” with all the control every planner or event organizer is looking for. Fortunately, just like with genuinely Live content, simulated live also has the capability to incorporate chat boxes, and polling features for event staff to engage with the audience, or for attendees to engage with each other. The highest quality of production is executed in advance with an expert crew, proper equipment, ability to manipulate the surroundings, and time to devote to editing. This level of polish helps the content being produced shine as evergreen material on your site or internally for years to come.
The Upsides:
Capability to incorporate chat boxes, and polling features for event staff to engage with the audience, or for attendees to engage with each other
Ability to stream video and integrate multiple presentations, graphics, and appealing elements
Unlimited retake opportunities
More control of end product
Attendee has the option to pause, rewind, and join back in to watch the current content taking place
Opportunity for impressive and purposeful evergreen content
Highest quality video and audio option
The Downsides:
Little to no engagement between presenter(s) and the attendees, unless there is a dedicated chat feature for both sides to communicate or there is a live Q&A portion after the segment (which would be the best of both worlds).
Requires more lead time for planning and editing
Can be costly if a studio is desired, due to renting (or building out) the space, acquiring the proper equipment and/or hiring a technical team
On-Demand
On-demand events are informational or educational pre-recorded videos typically meant to serve as a resource that can live permanently on a website or dashboard. There is no need for set announcements, live technical help or customer service. On-demand is very convenient for both the viewer allowing the opportunity for them to observe at their own pace and the company, since it requires minimal staffing to launch.
The Upsides:
Little to no stress
Continual opportunity to drive traffic to your website
Attendee has the ability to pause, rewind, and join back in to watch the current content taking place
The Downsides:
No engagement opportunities
Less dynamic analytics, however, the basics of capturing site traffic and quantity of views is achievable.
When choosing between simulated live or on-demand pre-recordings, you’ll want to have a clear understanding of the event objective and content as well as quantity and location of speakers. We have found that the very best virtual events incorporate the perfect blend of Live & Simulated-Live content, allowing for the event to ‘go off without a hitch’ while also making meaningful connections with the audience.
Below are two styles of events that can heavily rely on pre-recorded content.
Virtual Event - A very broad term these days, which primarily refers to a virtual experience designed to connect attendees with other attendees or a specific product/service. Content-driven elements are typically not intended for engagement with the presenter(s).
Key Components:
Two-way communication
Multi-channel engagement
Multiple sections or ‘rooms’
Entertainment features such as group classes, photo station, musical performance, gamification components, etc.
Interactive features such as chat boxes, break-out rooms, polling activities, whiteboard illustrating, etc.
Event types can include expos, festivals, trade shows, conventions, conferences, or fundraisers.
Webcast - Designed for a clear and concise message to reach a much larger audience, typically thousands of people.
Key Components:
One-way communication
Little to no interaction between attendees and presenter(s)
Ability to incorporate chat box features for attendees to interact with each other
Event types can include concerts, investor days or company announcements.
COSTS TO KEEP IN MIND
Please note the below costs are relevant for the Bay Area, and will vary depending on the main location of the event.
We’ve provided some key costs for you to consider including when planning your next event budget:
Video Kits can range between $100-$800 each; the kit’s components will vary depending on each speaker’s remote needs.
Studio Rentals can range between $10k-$40k, this depends on the amount of days and hours needed, and the amount of labor for recording and editing.
Post Production Editing typically starts at $80 per hour; the overall cost can increase quite a bit if you’re going to have a multiple day event with several speakers or if you want a sizzle reel.
If you’d like to dive into these options a little deeper and chat through creative opportunities, we here at Bash Creative would love to connect with you. With a library of innovative concepts and cost-saving solutions, as well as an unwavering commitment to your goals, your company and the stakeholders, we look forward to learning more about your event needs. Reach out today!
Stay tuned for our next blog “The Benefits of Live Content for Your Virtual or Hybrid Conference - coming soon!
Bash Creative is an event planning company that specializes in incredible gatherings that go beyond just great design. We’re known for teasing out smart goals for your event and serve up a stylish execution that will keep your guests buzzing. Located in San Francisco, but often found in New York, Austin, Chicago, Seattle, and beyond.