As attendees spend more and more time on their mobile devices, before, during, and after an event, event organizers can cut through the clutter by properly leveraging PUSH notifications.
What is the PUSH Message?
PUSH messages are the primary method of notifications on modern mobile devices. Each device platform (Apple, Android, Microsoft, etc) manages their own PUSH service and using it requires the user to have an app installed and permission given to that app to send PUSH Messages.
The convenience of PUSH messages lies in their ability to show notifications whether the user is in a particular app or not. They even work when the app is not open (whether in the background or not). This allows apps to transmit information 24/7/365 as long as the user's device is on and connected to the internet.
How do they work?
PUSH messages go through a few steps before showing up on a device. The organizer first enters them into their EventEdge backend system and chooses which platforms they want to send the message to. From there, it is routed through the Apple Push Notification Server (APNS) or the Android Notification Server. From there, the server sends the messages to the individual devices that have registered by installing a particular application. The device then pops the message up for the user to see. A lot goes into the process to make sure that messages are delivered both quickly and accurately.
How to use them effectively
DO: Use PUSH messages to update users on important/emergency content. PUSH messaging is an incredibly effective way to send out an important notification since it will be the first thing users see when they look at their devices.
DO NOT: Send too many messages. A common issue is known as 'message fatigue' when users stop reading your messages because an organizer is sending them every 5 minutes. Users tend to fully ready and process messages from sources that come in when there is actually important information. We find that anything more 10-12 messages a day starts to bring on message fatigue.
DO: Plan and schedule messages. For the most part, you can usually figure out ahead of time when you want to send messages. Whether it is reminders for sessions, tips for the event, or an important venue change, organizers find it easy to schedule your messages so that users are getting the message right when they need it. For example, we suggest sending out an important venue change 30 minutes before the session (rather then 5 hours) so you are reaching your audience right before they leave.
DO NOT: Send long and wordy messages. With our ever shortening attention spans, long messages tend to get read much less. Keep your messages short and to the point. Have to present a lot of information? You can refer users to a details section or spread it out across a couple of messages.
A few ways our events have used PUSH messages:
> Send activity updates and announcements
> Inform last minute schedule changes
> Create buzz around the featured session or pro shows
> Promote sponsors throughout your event
> Spread super saver deals, discounts and generate leads for exhibitors
> Announce contests, prizes and winners
> Update them about your recent photo and video upload on the app
> Share contact details during emergency situations
> Greet, welcome and say goodbye
> Follow up after the event and remind users of upcoming events