The question is on everyone’s minds: what is the future of events in a post-COVID world? We can all agree that the “normal” we once knew is no longer viable. For the safety of everyone, the world is asking all of us to reinvent, reimagine, and conceptualize what’s next, and it feels like we’d have to turn our industry upside-down to find a solution. 

Wizard Studios knows a solution is always in sight. In addition, we’re always ensuring the steps we take are inventive and effective in our new, shared “normal.” And with a pulse on the future of event planning, we’re taking a stand that the Hub and Spoke model is our best bet for the survival of our industry..

The Hub and Spoke Model

The Hub and Spoke model gets its name from a wheel - a series of different “spokes” are all connected to a central “hub.” In regards to event production, imagine the “spokes” being smaller satellite venues or small groups of people all connecting - via live-streaming or hybrid technology - to the larger “hub,” which would be the primary stage, catered to hosting no more than 100 attendees. Additional “spokes” could be individuals or small groups tuned in at home. When done effectively, these venue networks offer a way for planners to create a shared sense of intimacy within the framework of a larger event - all while prioritizing safety. 

Collaboration is Key

To enhance this model, all event planners and producers need to start thinking of themselves as “collaboration artists.” Consider what your organization can do to find the talents and strengths of collaborating businesses. If two heads are better than one, imagine creating a successful event with half a dozen talented teams at work!

Companies can utilize spatial computing to digitize a room, a hallway, and even the food so that every “spoke” arouses the same feelings amazing live events always did: a shared intimacy with a larger scope. This could involve utilizing emotional recognition technology for organizers and speakers to “read a room” without ever having to leave the hub or making a hallway into a guided, walking exhibition. Further that continuity between hub and spoke by using augmented reality to enhance food boxes so that any group of people, regardless of the miles between them, are all sharing in the same delight. 

Why This Model Now? 

Our world feels like it's changing faster than ever. New guidelines and regulations come out, they’re implemented, and in a moment’s notice, we’re asked to change them again. This is our new, shared reality. But other things, like interacting with screens, aren't’ changing at all. In fact, they’re growing stale. 

Audiences have been flooded with the same Zoom call format, and the fatigue is wearing on them. People want a change to engage with the world while also making sure they’re safe. The Hub and Spoke solves all these problems, and with a touch of spatial computing, you can program an entire room with content and graphics to really stimulate an audience’s senses. 

If the Hub and Spoke model sounds like a solution you want to execute for your next event, you don’t have to jump in alone. As with any professional endeavor, you can always enlist the help of a professional. Contact Wizard Studios today!