Creating mobile apps for events and meetings is becoming more of a common practice both to drive attendee interaction but to also assist in decreasing carbon footprints. This quick guide answers a few questions for those unfamiliar with the mobile app space. The ideal scenario for top performing event professionals would be to incorporate mobile apps and event management software to help maximize their ROI and ROO.

1. Going mobile with your meetings & events
The basic questions answered

2. Why do I need a mobile app?

3. Reduce your carbon footprint
Use digital content
Lower your print costs
Help your attendees
Keep everyone informed of event updates
Drive interaction & networking opportunities

4. Why I want a native app

5. A native app runs directly off the device’s
operating system and can be adapted for
multiple devices.
They can be accessed with no
connectivity. For example, in
planes, subways, and dead zones.
They’re more effective with integration
into special features like GPS and contact
lists.
Allow for push notifications. When you
change your content, users can receive
updates in real-time.

6. What should I include in my app?

7. Local maps with map points of local
dining, entertainment, lodging, and points of interest.
Depending on your event you may want to pinpoint your
events locations, venues and/or routes.
Highlight your breakout sessions and guest speakers &
keynote speakers.
Create a tab for your event sponsors and link to their sites.
Offer opportunity to schedule appointments with exhibitors
& sponsors.

8. Get your attendees chatting about your event with
a social section.
Will they be taking notes? Create a digital notepad.
Make your attendee binder a digital one!
Allow attendees to interact with each other via
contact lists.
Gamification will also help to drive participation.

9. Can I see who used my app, how it was used, and
on which devices?
Yes! Most apps will come with analytics.
These analytics will allow you to see stats
including:
demographic of your users
which mobile devices were used
which sections of the app were used
how much, when and how often
how many downloads on each platform

10. Do I need HTML experience?
Can someone build my app for me?

11. It will depend on which app provider you
choose.
Most native mobile app platforms do not
require any html knowledge, IF they have a
simple WYSIWYG editor which would look
like a Word editor. Some apps may require
some Javascript for special features.
Yes, most providers can build the app for
you. Keep in mind the cost will dramatically
increase as will your timeline to receive the
finished product.
Building your own app my require some
assistance, however the upside is that you
are in control of your production schedule
and you will save … big time!

12. If I’m using a native app, how long does it take
for it to be approved?

13. The Google Play store has a speedy turnaround. Maybe 2 days max but
remember times change and there’s no standard answer.
The Apple App Store is much more strict. Remember, your app can be
rejected in which case you will need to make updates and resubmit or file
an appeal. Be sure to add some cushion space just in case this were to
happen to you. Approval could take approximately 2-3 weeks but plan
ahead and do not make last minute moves.

14. What if I want to make changes to my app?

15. Yes, you can usually make changes. Check to see if your app provider
offers real-time updates and push notifications.

16. How can I make sure my attendees use my app?
Social media is first and foremost the
easiest & least expensive means of
promotion.
Post on Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin &
LinkedIn groups, create a
SlideShare, and post pictures on your
Pinterest.
When you send email communications
about your event be sure to include
app announcements.

17. Promote the gamification section of your
app & get people excited (if applicable).
Advertise your event in print media
throughout the tradeshow or exhibit hall.
Offer incentives or hold a contest through
the app for app users only.

18. Want more information?
Call us at 404.237.8945
Email us at communications@signup4.com
Visit us at www.signup4.com