Having a complex event tech stack has its benefits, but it can be challenging when you’re looking to make (or need to make) big changes across your entire event portfolio.

This was certainly true for Incisive Media, who in 2019 made the decision to scale down its event tech stack to one single supplier, with the view to improve user experience and find a supplier who could develop at a pace that suited its fast-growing business.

Sophie Eke, Incisive Media’s Marketing Director explains: “When looking for a new approach to our event tech stack, we had a number specific requirements in mind such as being able to bring our CMS platform with our database and improving the adjudication process for the extremely high-profile professionals who take part in judging our awards. However, the overarching goal was to find a technology partner who could create the next-level delegate and customer experience and interaction our various stakeholders had with our business.

“Having worked in the industry for a number of years, I had an extensive knowledge and experience of event technology that was on the market. We enjoyed the benefits of a multitude of event technology suppliers, however there were a number of limitations and challenges for us as we looked to grow our business.”

Incisive Media is an award-winning B2B information and events business who runs 150 events annually serving the finance, technology and sustainability sectors. From C-level dinners right up for B2B festival-style events, Incisive Media prides itself on digital innovation and putting business insight in the hands of business professionals around the globe.

“During the RFP process, Evessio were a stand-out supplier for us for a number of reasons. They were open to developing the platform to suit our own business needs and were incredibly transparent with the dev schedule. It felt like Evessio understood the challenges event organisers faced and were constantly looking to improve its software to adapt with these challenges.”

“It was also a real bonus for us that they were based in the UK and yet still able to support our international events. It allowed our teams to work incredibly closely during the onboarding process.”

The first challenge facing the new partnership was the onboarding of the extensive 150 events from the multiple providers over to the Evessio platform in Q4 of 2019 - which happened to be the busiest time for Incisive Media.

“We were so impressed with Evessio’s willingness to adapt quickly. The team’s can-do solution driven attitude has been invaluable and they are always on-hand to give our team advice and answers.”

Up until February 2020, the Incisive Media events portfolio consisted of a 50/50 split between awards and conferences but as the world changed, the Incisive Media team had to adapt fast.

“With hindsight, I’m so pleased that we made the decision to change when we did. While digital events have been a part of the Incisive Media DNA since 2013, having a single event technology service provider like Evessio in place has been a lifesaver during Q1 & Q2 of 2020 to help us pivot our business in delivering online experiences across our portfolios.

“Evessio has given our marketing teams the tools they need to launch new events from start to finish. Empowering them to focus their time on delivering exceptional content and programmes for our audiences. As a result of this, we’ve had fantastic engagement during our digital conferences and have seen on average a dwell time of up-to four hours.”

And the future for Incisive Media?

“Anything can change – we’re hopeful and optimistic for the future of events. We will be planning for hybrid style events serving delegates both at a live event and experience digital platform. 2020 has proven that our digital events can deliver on content so our next goal is to focus on experience in the physical environment and improving networking at our events.”

“Whilst technology connects us, events appeal to the human connection. Working with Evessio to drive engagement and bringing individuals and our communities together.”