I like the widget that Qik and NewsGator (client) put together for DNC coverage.
Widgets are a really interesting delivery model for microsharing from events, because the the content can be simultaneously sent out 1) to/via the application (Twitter, Qik, etc.) 2) at your site via the widget and 3) at the sites and social media pages of fans and followers who add the widget to their sites too.
This and some business conversations this week got me thinking about my framework for how microsharing can make events more powerful:
Networking
Microsharing enables many different networking functions. It works as a mixer/icebreaker, an idea-sharing forum, and an ad-hoc way for people in attendance to make plans, meet and coordinate introductions. Games and challenges throughout the program could keep attendees engaged and interacting beyond their circles of familiarity. Beyond the event, microsharing works to preserve and nurture ties established at the event for collaboration, inspiration and support long after everyone is back to their regular routines.
Backchannel
Responses, reactions and questions from both the onsite audience and the larger world that is tuning into the event’s feeds can capture and even help develop some of the stronger ideas generated.
Extending reach
Getting messages out to offsite audiences and permitting some return path and backchannel from literally anywhere in the world means that organizers can extend the experience to many who could not attend, and in return that engagement and input can come in from audiences not otherwise coming to the table.
Sponsor tool
I loved the scavenger hunt that HP ran at BlogHer. If energy and ideas from your event are pinging around in the kind of lightweight, temporal, virtual community that microsharing enables, there will also be opportunity for your sponsors to play in that space, and earn attention by contributing something of value.
“Street teams”
Designated people on the ground at the event can generate coverage, encourage others to do so, and ensure critical mass of quality content. They also function as in-situ ambassadors to explain and assist attendees less familiar with the technologies.
High-profile individuals
Reaching out to those who have a strong following or personal brand and getting them to engage with the tools and use them to convey the event’s ideas to their audience is valuable. Whatever their sphere of influence, their use of microsharing at your event helps amplify their voice as well.
What do you think? How do you use microsharing at events? How might conference and event planners incorporate the benefits of Twitter and related tools into their official programs? What have you seen work well? Fall short? If you run events (anything from small reunions to giant conferences) what would you like to know more about or try?
