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Leslie Robertson, CEO, Open Audience, encourages event organisers to give attendees agency, instead of “gate keeping” the user experience.
In today’s dynamic world, the term ‘omniverse’ has risen to prominence. It represents the convergence of physical and digital realities, where real and virtual realms are no longer separate but intertwined.
As we transition into the omniverse era, audience engagement is undergoing a transformative change. Tools such as holographic presentations and augmented reality are not mere gimmicks; they’re turning ordinary spaces into captivating, interactive learning arenas. But with this profusion of technology, we grapple with a crucial dilemma: Which tool best serves the audience?
The allure of cutting-edge technology is palpable. However, as either event organisers or content curators, our compass should always point towards the user. It’s not about the most advanced technology but the technology that seamlessly aligns with event goals and deeply resonates with the audience. It’s imperative to amplify our message, ensuring our audiences don’t just observe but genuinely feel engaged, valued, and heard.
Prioritising the agency of attendees
Historically, event organisers and content producers acted as gatekeepers of user experience, presenting content in a fixed manner. But in our digital age, marked by individual preferences and a demand for personalisation, this unilateral approach is becoming obsolete. The omniverse nudges us towards a more democratised engagement paradigm. It signals a need to transition from merely providing experiences to equipping users to curate their own journeys.
The emphasis on self-curated experiences underscores a larger cultural shift. Today’s users are not just passive receivers. They’re active participants, seeking autonomy in content consumption. They yearn for experiences tailored to their unique preferences, time constraints, and learning paces. Whether it’s an event attendee wanting to choose breakout sessions or an online learner deciding the pace of a module, the importance of personal agency cannot be overstated. Facilitating such agency can mean offering interactive modules, AI-driven adaptive content, or even feedback mechanisms that continuously refine the user experience.
The rise of the omniverse and the empowerment of users also necessitates a reimagining of success metrics. Beyond quantitative measures like the number of attendees or views, the focus should shift to the depth and richness of engagement. Are the participants actively involved? Do they feel a genuine connection to the content? Are they empowered to access and navigate content in ways that resonate most with them?
Democratising experiences in the omniverse era brings with it inherent responsibilities. While we unlock the vast potentialities of technology, we must remain anchored in the human essence that gives events and content their true depth. It’s a balancing act—of blending technological innovation with the timeless, irreplaceable value of genuine human connection.
In wrapping up, navigating audience engagement in the omniverse is more than a technological quest—it’s a journey of understanding, empathy, and collaboration. As this landscape evolves, success hinges not just on the tools we harness but the ethos with which we approach our audiences. Entrust them with the autonomy to shape their journeys, and the experiences we craft will not merely inform but inspire. In this intricate dance of content, technology, and human connection, let user empowerment and expertise choreograph the steps.
