One of our most frequently asked questions is about the best platform to host a virtual event. The short answer is that there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Sometimes a formal event platform is the best solution, other times we look to an event landing page. These two options differ in a few key ways which may or may not justify the typically higher spend for a platform. So, we took a more in-depth look at the cost-benefit of a landing page versus an event platform for your next virtual event.
Landing Page
The Perks:
- Landing pages are familiar to users and accessible in a single click.
- Using the site to host your virtual event will also drive traffic directly to your website. This way the attendees can browse other areas of your website, which ultimately might feed into other key goals of your event (awareness, donations, etc.).
- This can be a low-cost option, especially if you have an in-house web team! All you need is a clean page, and a playback embed code!
- There are no platform design restrictions with a landing page. You can layout and brand the page in whatever way you want. Spice it up or pare it down, you choose!
- Landing pages allow the ability to iframe and embed other tools. Think: chat, Q&A, live polling, fundraising button, etc.
The Cons:
- There is no face to face engagement within a landing page. So if you want breakouts you’re going to have to link out to something like Zoom which can be clunky.
- Landing pages aren’t always as immersive as platforms can be, with everything in one location and as a single experience.
- If you don’t have a web team, creating a landing page can still be a big project! In those cases, there are platforms on the lower end of the pricing spectrum which offer similar features.
Event Platform(s)
The Perks:
- Most event platforms exist as a completely customized website with more of an “event hub” experience.
- Most platforms have a lot of great additional features, such as: face-to-face breakouts, social media integration, a directory of speakers with headshots and bios, AR Scanner integration that scans real-life objects and graphics to bring content to life, and more!
- Many platforms allow you to bring in unique design elements, and even to white label and remove all mention of the platform name so the event is all your own.
- The video stream can typically be embedded wherever you like and can sometimes move with the user if they click around the platform so your audience won’t miss any part of the program!
- Depending on the platform, you may have the ability to add lower-thirds, graphics, and branding directly to the live stream.
The Cons:
- Platforms are typically more costly than a landing page, often by a wide margin.
- Many platforms are restrictive as far as customization, design, or branding which may lead to additional costs, or other sacrifices despite a higher price tag.
- Depending on the platform, your attendees may need to download an app, upgrade software, or just have trouble navigating a new interface.
- Some platforms do not have built-in streaming capabilities, so you need a 3rd party for a content stream, increasing the price even further.
As with most things, landing pages and platforms both have their own set of perks and, subsequently, challenges. Lucky enough, Sequence takes the guesswork out of deciding which option is right for you! Sign up for our 30-minute free consultation to learn more.