The best digital tools for conferences

Digital tools for conference attendees 

When attending a conference, you might want to snap some pictures of key presenters, their slides, and take notes. For all those conveniences, here are the best tools directly available on your mobile phone.

The best note-takers: Evernote, Microsoft OneNote,and Notion 

Evernote can really bring together ideas when you’re at an event. The digital app (can be used on all devices and makes voice-to-text notes and weaves together links and media from the internet. Additionally, the platform enables conference goers to annotate PDFs and scan in documents. 

Microsoft OneNote is similar. The basic functionality includes translating from voice to text, but when used on a device, the platform transforms note taking. OneNote incorporates sketches, lists, and other formats to create a holistic ‘picture’ of the conference.  

Notion’s unique selling point is its AI-powered platform. Think of Notion as more than a note taker. The use-case for conferences is powerful – first as a note taker, the platform uses AI to do research for you. No more waiting until you are in the office to fill out any unknowns. Equally it also summarises key points and compares with previous notes.    

Making networking easier with QR codes 

LinkedIn, Canva, and Blinq all generate QR codes to exchange contact details. The premise is to potentially do away with physical cards and allow people to connect online immediately.  

LinkedIn’s QR code generator is accessible directly from the mobile phone app. A few short steps will get you there. Simply type ‘QR Code’ in your search bar and follow the instructions. Once generated, you’ll be able to share the code or download it for future use.  

Canva might be the way to go if you’re already using the editing tool for media. Along with designing business cards or other materials for the conference, QR codes can also be produced. You’ll just need the weblink – ready-made templates integrate the code with the design.  

Blinq produces free digital business cards, perfect for networking. Download the app directly to your mobile phone and start exchanging details. The scanner also enables conference goers to pick up details and store.  

Digital tools for organisers and large events 

Aside from being participants, charity staff may want to organise conferences, events, or just large gatherings. Having dedicated digital tools makes sense. Here are the top all-around tools that can make a difference. 

All-in-one conference apps 

Whova, the conference platform is one of the most comprehensive apps available. First, organisers may choose between in-person, hybrid, or virtual events. The ability to broadcast in real-time conference panels to those not present is a boon for charities with space and geographical constraints.  The best features include registration, ticketing, and event management. Organisers may directly tap into who’s coming, message different types of participants, and get real time feedback.  

Competing with Whova is Cvent. This all-in-one platform also offers ticketing and registration, onsite management, speaker and content management, and exhibitor resources. Importantly, Cvent also includes post-event analyses. Looking at this section, organisers can compare panel sessions, check sentiment, attendance, and assess survey results.  Clearly, for large events, this platform makes sense.  

Swoogo is another go-to for event management. The developers have also thought about the conference workflow, starting with registration, logistics, and ending in analytics. But the best parts of this platform are its ‘add-on’ services and its flexibility. Charities on a budget can opt-in or out of different products like guest mobile apps, sub-user accounts, and custom domains.  

The other major benefit here is the premium support. For high stakes events, charities can take on premium support 24/7.   

Apps with specific services – ticketing and more 

For less sophisticated events, Eventbrite is well-known and user-friendly. Targeted at promoting local events, the service is largely free unless there’s a ticket charge. For charity organisers, all that remains to be done is to set up the page and distribute the link. 

LiveBuzz offers modular services. While the platform can offer registration and event management, they can focus on a single project. For example, LiveBuzz worked with the NHS on their International Women’s Day Celebration. The project’s main objective was to launch an event website. Here, the tasks including abiding by strict marketing lines and communication, registration, and feedback forms. For those looking for event-dedicated sites, LiveBuzz is a good option.