3D Versus 2D Events: Choosing The Virtual Side Of Your Hybrid Event

Ready to host your hybrid event, but not sure which virtual platform-style you should use? For many companies, the decision of hosting a hybrid event comes down to the cost. Fortunately, there is more than just one option for the virtual side of your hybrid event! 

With the advances in technology and recent innovations in the virtual event world, there are many ways that you can host a hybrid event. When choosing the platform you want to use for your hybrid event, there is the option for 3D and 2D virtual platforms.

Let’s jump right into the benefits and differences of using a 2D versus 3D virtual platform for your hybrid event and see which one fits your event and budget for 2022. 

3D Hybrid Events

Before we get more into the details of 2D events, let’s first go over the difference between a 2D virtual event and one that is 3D (also known as virtual venues). Virtual venues are a great option for event planners that want to level up their events. A 3D virtual platform allows you to design the event to your specifications. There are endless opportunities for engagement, sponsorship, detailed analytics and networking between live and virtual attendees.

With 3D events, you can host many types of breakout sessions, wellness breaks, speakers corners, networking tables and more with customized rooms that are matched with the type or theme of your event. For example, below is the virtual venue (3D event) for a train station!

Although this option can be more expensive, it replicates the experience of a live event! You can learn more about our 3D virtual events by reading Virtual Venue Ideas For Your Next Event. 

2D Hybrid Events

2D virtual events have the upper hand if you are looking for a budget-friendly version for the virtual side of your hybrid event. With 2D virtual events, you can effectively integrate both your on-site and virtual audiences into one event, while engaging your virtual audience with a clean and concise 2D platform. Below, we have put together 3 reasons why you should host a 2D virtual event in 2022. 

2D virtual events still give some of the features that are used in a 3D virtual event. Live polling, chat functionality and real-time Q&A sessions keep content engaging and allow attendees to interact directly with speakers and presenters.

Since 2D events have similar and more cost-effective features than 3D events, there is no reason why you should not be hosting or stimulating a 2D virtual event for your employees, partners or clients! 

Takeaway

2D and 3D virtual events are a great way to optimize each aspect of a virtual event to preserve the experience for online guests. Fortunately, there are a few guidelines that will help you determine which hybrid event platform may best fit your needs.

First, ask yourself what your main goal is for the event. If it’s to lower your event’s cost, then a 2D event may suffice. However, if your goal is to replicate an in-person event, a 3D virtual venue may work.

Second, consider whether the engagement and features (and post-event conversations about how awesome your event was) are worth the extra cost. If they aren’t, then a 2D virtual event will be what you are looking for in your hybrid event planning! 

Download Our Secret Guide to Hybrid Experiences!

Learn the Secrets of the Hybrid Event Experience used by our event planners by downloading it below.

If you are still curious about hybrid events or how you can start planning one yourself, check out our blog here on 5 Reasons Why Your Next Event Should Be Hybrid or our blog on 9 Tips For A Successful Hybrid Event In 2022.