Rally Point Webinars Logo

A Virtual Event Planner for Successful Virtual Event Planning and Production.

Rely on our professional team for high-impact, online events.

BOOK MY FREE CONSULT

Trusted by companies worldwide for 15+ years.


Trusted by companies
worldwide for 15+ years.


As you navigate the complexities of organizing an online event, it's crucial to understand the role of a Virtual Event Planner because they build out your vision and manage the technical aspects that can easily overwhelm even the most seasoned hosts.

With the proper virtual event planning, you can streamline the process and enhance audience engagement, but there's more to it than meets the eye. What strategies can you employ to elevate your virtual events from ordinary to extraordinary?

How to Plan a Virtual Event

When planning a virtual event, define your key objectives, including what material you will deliver. This foundational step will guide your entire planning and management process to help you create an engaging experience. Next, consider the following essential actions.

#1 - Identify Your Audience

Understand who you're targeting and how you will market to them. Tailor your content and format to meet their interests.

#2 - Choose the Right Format

Decide whether your event will be a live stream, webinar, or combination. Each format has unique advantages and can cater to different engagement levels.

#3 - Select a Suitable Platform

Research hosting options to find one that supports your event's needs, such as interactivity, analytics, and ease-of-use.

#4 - Develop a Detailed Agenda

Create a structured timeline outlining each event segment, ensuring a smooth flow and keeping your audience engaged.

Virtual Event Planning Checklist

A comprehensive step-by-step virtual event planning checklist ensures a successful and engaging experience. 

#1 - Create a Master Timeline

Document all of the key milestones and deadlines for content, marketing, registration, event prep, event production, and follow-up

#2 - Detail the Event Production

Thoroughly plan every minute of the virtual event. This includes all content, engagement, and production activities.

#3 - Rehearse the Virtual Event

Practice makes perfect. Virtual events are no different. A rehearsal that tests every moving part makes for a smooth event.

#4 - Have Contingency Plans

Even with practice technical issues can arise. Have backup plans and resources in place for common problems that can arise.

Main Types of Virtual Events

When planning your next virtual event, it's essential to understand the different types available. You can choose from live webinars, hybrid events, or pre-recorded sessions, each offering unique engagement opportunities for your meetings. This variety allows you to tailor your event to meet your audience's needs and preferences best.

Live Webinars

Live webinars have established themselves as a dynamic solution for real-time engagement. They allow you to connect directly with your audience in an interactive format. These sessions are designed to share knowledge, educate participants, and foster discussion. You can leverage webinars for various purposes, whether promoting a product, conducting training, or hosting a panel discussion. Here are four key benefits of live webinars:

Immediate Feedback

You can engage attendees through polls and Q&A sessions, allowing for instant feedback and interaction.

Global Reach

Webinars eliminate geographical barriers, enabling you to connect with a worldwide audience without travel costs.

Cost-Effective

Hosting a live webinar requires minimal resources compared to traditional events, saving you time and money.

Content Repurposing

You can record your webinars for future use, creating valuable content for on-demand viewing or marketing purposes.

Webcasts

Webcasts are another powerful format in virtual events, extending the possibilities for online engagement. They combine streaming live video from an on-site location, such as a demo center, with interactive elements, enabling you to reach a large audience while offering real-time interaction.


Whether you're sharing industry insights, product launches, or educational content, webcasts allow you to engage participants directly through Q&A sessions and live polls.


One key benefit of webcasts is their scalability. You can broadcast to hundreds or even thousands of attendees without the constraints of a physical venue. This format also allows for easy recording, so you can repurpose your content for future use, maximizing your investment.


When planning a webcast, consider your goals and audience preferences. A well-structured agenda keeps your content focused and engaging.


You'll want to choose a reliable platform that supports high-quality video and interactive features, ensuring a seamless experience for your viewers.

Virtual Events

Virtual events come in various formats, each designed to cater to specific audience needs and preferences. Understanding these types can help you choose the right one for your goals. Here are four common types of virtual events:

Conferences

These are a series of seminars that focus on different aspects of a theme, and feature a range of speakers. Many times the provide continue education credits for professionals.

Trainings

Organizations often choose to host training events online, rather than fly in all of their employees from different cities. Virtual trainings can included quizzes to test learning too.

Hybrid Events

Effectively combining in-person and virtual components, these events can cater to onsite and remote participants, enhancing engagement and reach.

Networking Opportunities

Some virtual events prioritize social interaction, offering platforms for attendees to connect, share, and collaborate rather than focusing solely on education.

Pre-Recorded Webinars

Pre-recorded webinars offer a flexible and engaging way to share information with your audience. You can record your session at a time that suits you, ensuring you present your content in the best light.


This format allows for editing, enhancing clarity, adding graphics, and including interactive elements that maintain viewer interest.


One significant advantage is that viewers do not need to know the event was pre-recorded, which increases the likelihood of attendance. Plus, you can promote your webinar beforehand, generating excitement and anticipation.



With pre-recorded webinars, you can easily track viewer engagement through analytics. This data provides insights into what resonates with your audience, helping you refine future content.


Moreover, these webinars can be repurposed; you can share them on your website, distribute them through email marketing, or even use snippets on social media to reach a broader audience.

Hybrid Events

Hybrid events (internal hybrid and external hybrid events) combine the best of both worlds, allowing participants to engage in person or join remotely. This flexibility broadens your audience reach and caters to various preferences.

When planning a hybrid event, consider these key elements:

Technology Setup

Make sure you have tested the reliability of the streaming equipment and platforms to ensure you can facilitate the interaction between in-person and remote attendees.

Engagement Strategies

Incorporate interactive tools like Q&A sessions and breakout rooms to foster participation from both audiences. You can further have a group sessions to recap takeaways.

Content Accessibility

Provide materials and recordings post-event to accommodate those who couldn't attend live. Also, consider providing some material in advance to stimulate interest.

Logistics Coordination

Leverage communication tools so that your team can manage the physical venue and online platform simultaneously to create a seamless experience for everyone involved.

On-Demand Recordings

On-demand recordings offer attendees a flexible way to engage with event content at their convenience. You can revisit sessions, explore topics of interest, or catch up on what you missed, all at your own pace. This format caters to different learning styles and schedules, making it easier for participants to absorb information when it suits them best.


When you choose on-demand recordings, you're also maximizing your event's reach. Attendees from varying time zones or those with other commitments can still access valuable insights and presentations. This accessibility not only boosts engagement but also enhances the overall impact of your event.


Moreover, on-demand recordings can serve as a powerful marketing tool. You can repurpose content for future promotions or create highlights to share on social media, extending your event's life beyond the live experience. Additionally, these recordings allow for valuable analytics, helping you understand which sessions resonated most with your audience.


Incorporating on-demand recordings into your virtual events can elevate the experience, ensuring your content remains relevant and accessible long after the live event concludes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Got a question about virtual event planning? We’re here to help.

  • - How Do I Choose the Right Platform for My Virtual Event?

    When choosing the right platform to help with virtual event management, consider your audience's needs, the required features, and your budget. Test various options to find the best fit for smooth engagement and interaction.

  • - What Are the Best Practices for Engaging Attendees During Virtual Events?

    Use interactive elements like polls, workshops, and Q&A sessions to engage attendees during virtual events. Keep content dynamic, encourage participation, and create networking opportunities. Remember, it's vital to maintain energy and connection throughout the event!

  • - How Can I Measure the Success of My Virtual Event?

    Track key metrics like attendance rates, engagement levels, and feedback scores to measure your virtual event's success. Analyze participant behavior and follow up for insights, ensuring you understand what worked and what didn't.

  • - What Technical Support Is Typically Available During Virtual Events?

    During virtual events, you'll want to provide real-time technical support via chat, email, and phone. Tech support agents should be able to troubleshooting any issue and provide guidance for presenters. Robust tech support is vital to maintaining engagement and delivering a great experience for attendees.

  • - How Can I Ensure My Virtual Event Is Accessible to All Participants?

    To ensure your virtual event is accessible, use captions, provide screen reader compatibility, and offer multiple formats for content. Test your technology beforehand, and invite feedback to make necessary adjustments for all participants.

THE WORD

Hear from our clients first-hand

These marketers, executives, and speakers have had an experience worth sharing.

Andy Tryba, Co-Founder and CEO, Ionic Partners

“I've got to tell you Rally Point Webinars is the best in the industry when it comes to not only the actual delivery of the virtual events themselves, but all of the upfront work that's needed in order for it to be successful. I can't recommend them enough.”

Andy Tryba, Co-Founder & CEO, Ionic Partners

Kathy Forni, Director of CX, EOI Service Company

“One of the effects COVID had on our company was the inability to do our summer training sessions in person. Scary, right? Not when you have Rally Point Webinars to help you facilitate and organize for you. We could not have had a successful training without them.”

Kathy Forni, Director of CX,

EOI Service Company

Greg Osenge, Managing Director, Publicis Hawkeye

“Rally Point Webinars was the most professional, buttoned-up experience I have been through. You could tell you were in good hands. Everything was handled so thoroughly there was nothing to do but do your part as the speaker!"

Greg Osenge, Managing Director, Publicis Hawkeye

Erica Stritch, CMO, RAIN Group

"Rally Point Webinars knows webinars like no one else. If you are looking for a partner to not only facilitate your webinars, but one that will recommend new ways to achieve your goals, then they should be at the top of your list.”

Erica Stritch, CMO,
RAIN Group

FREE CONSULT

Want seamless event prep? Speak with a virtual event planner.

BOOK MY FREE CONSULT

Schedule your free consult with a virtual event planning company.

Share by: