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]]>eShow and Wicket Announce Partnership
eShow Introduces Express Entry, a New Facial Credentialing Experience for Event Check-In
Integration brings opt-in facial authentication to eShow's onsite check-in, delivering a faster, frictionless alternative to traditional check-in
South Barrington, IL — March 18, 2026 — eShow, a leading provider of event management solutions for associations and independent show organizers, and Wicket, the leading facial authentication platform provider for live events, today announced a strategic partnership that introduces eShow Express Entry—an opt-in facial credentialing experience that streamlines event check-in.
Express Entry gives attendees who choose to participate a faster alternative to traditional check-in. During advance registration, attendees are offered the option to enroll. At the event, enrolled attendees simply approach a check-in station, are authenticated in less than a second, and retrieve their badge from the adjacent printer.
eShow’s existing Express Check-In system already credentials attendees in approximately eight seconds—a record-breaking pace in the events industry. Express Entry builds on that foundation, giving organizers an even faster check-in option for their events.
“For 30 years, eShow has focused on elevating the attendee experience—and check-in is often the first impression attendees have onsite. eShow Express Entry gives events a faster check-in option while staying true to attendee choice and trust. Partnering with Wicket helps our customers deliver that smoother arrival experience to their attendees,” said Raju Patel, Founder and CEO of eShow.
“Wicket is focused on enabling sensational event experiences,” said Glenn Borgmann, head of partnerships at Wicket. “Partnering with a leading event management platform like eShow allows event managers to streamline event check-in so attendees can spend less time in line and more time enjoying the event.”
Participation is entirely voluntary, and traditional check-in options like barcode scanning and manual lookup remain available at all times. Wicket’s technology generates and uses encrypted biometric templates for authentication—mathematical representations of facial features, not images. No biometric data is ever processed without explicit consent, and data is never shared with or sold to third parties.
Express Entry reduces staffing pressure at check-in, keeps lines moving during peak arrival periods, and transforms check-in into a welcoming moment for attendees.
eShow Express Entry is expected to make its live debut at an event later this spring, with additional rollouts planned throughout 2026.
About eShow
Founded in 1996, eShow provides powerful, customizable web-based solutions for event organizers, including registration management, conference management, exhibit management, mobile apps, lead retrieval, and onsite services. With a global clientele of over 1,900 organizations and seamless experiences delivered for more than 6,000,000 attendees worldwide, eShow has spent 30 years helping event professionals streamline operations and elevate the attendee experience. Learn more at goeshow.com.
About Wicket
Wicket (www.wicketsoft.com) is a computer vision technology company headquartered in Doylestown, PA. Wicket develops and delivers software products that enable a sensational event experience for some of the largest sports and credentialed venues. With a portfolio of issued and pending patents, Wicket’s Facial Authentication platform includes products for facial ticketing, credentialing, access control, and payments.
Media Inquiries:
eShow
Sarah Varner
VP of Marketing
[email protected]
Wicket
[email protected]
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]]>The post What to look for in conference management tools in 2026! appeared first on eShow.
]]>Conference Management tools can help, especially when platforms communicate with each other and handle the messy logistics, it’s a game-changer. These tools aren’t just about saving time (though they do); they elevate the event experience for attendees and speakers to sponsors and planners alike.
So, what conference management tools are changing the game in 2026? Let’s explore what helps planners breathe easier and how solutions like eShow’s Conference Management software are helping make that possible.
Key Highlights:
- Key innovations are focused on accommodating the trend of last-minute registration (55% register in the final two weeks) by offering personalized data usage, integrated journeys, real-time capacity management, and AI-driven recommendations.
- Integrated modules, such as abstract management with online submission portals and proposal rating, bring order to complex content processes.
- Mobile apps and real-time updates are critical for a seamless attendee experience, allowing for instant notification of last-minute changes and providing a personalized, pocket-sized agenda.
- The adoption of comprehensive, integrated platforms enables event professionals to shift their focus from logistics management to strategic planning and creating unforgettable attendee experiences.
The Evolution of Conference Management Tools
There was a time when just updating a speaker’s schedule meant bouncing between three systems, a spreadsheet, three Google Docs, and a back-and-forth email thread.
Now, centralized tools create a completely different experience (and better). Planners have the peace of mind that comes with everything finally living under one roof. No more guessing who has the latest version or chasing down AV requests. These tools aren’t just about organization, they’re also about reducing mental load and helping planners focus on the parts of the event that truly matter.
Let’s break down five features that are making the biggest difference right now.
- Future-Ready Registration
The landscape of event attendance is changing, demanding a shift in registration technology. Data indicates a significant trend toward last-minute registration: as noted in the blog post “Event Planning Marketing Statistics 2025,” a striking 55% of attendees register in the final two weeks before an event.
As this last-minute registration trend continues to rise, attendees’ expectations for the event experience also evolve. They now anticipate fast, seamless, and highly personalized event experiences.
Key features of a future-ready registration system:
- Personalized Data Usage: Utilizing pre-filled forms, past preferences, and profile-based suggestions.
- Integrated Journeys: Connecting registration data directly to housing, session agendas, and AI-curated recommendations.
- Real-Time Management: Instantly adjusting session availability and room assignments with Real-Time Capacity.
- AI-Driven Matching: Allowing attendees to “Ask AI: ‘What event should I attend for X?'” to receive matched suggestions.
The future of event registration isn’t just about collecting information; it’s about creating intelligent, responsive systems that meet attendees where they are. Organizations that embrace these capabilities will not only accommodate the growing wave of last-minute registrations but will transform them into opportunities for deeper engagement.
- Integrated Abstract Management
Abstract submission and review can be one of the most tedious parts of planning. Managing multiple email threads and spreadsheets from someone’s desktop can leave your team feeling overwhelmed and disorganized.
With tools like eShow’s abstract management module, organizers can bring order to the chaos. An online submission portal, proposal rating system, reviewer progress view, and customized reporting help manage the full lifecycle of abstracts without burning out staff or volunteers.
Planners who set clear expectations for reviewers, provide checklists, and send reminder emails often avoid last-minute stress and gain weeks of efficiency back.
- Centralized Scheduling and Function Sheet Management
Double-booked rooms. Missing catering orders. These are the kinds of oversights that keep planners up at night. Does the constant fear of someone printing the wrong version of the function sheet keep you up at night, too?
That’s why platforms like eShow’s Meeting Logistics Module can be such a relief. They act as the single source of truth for everything:
- room setups,
- AV needs,
- signage,
- budgets,
- and more.
Function sheets become living, breathing documents that everyone, from staff to vendors, can rely on.
- Real-Time Updates and Mobile Accessibility
Last-minute room change? A no-show speaker? It happens. And before mobile apps, notifying attendees could feel like you were yelling into a void.
Tools like eShow’s Mobile Event App help turn potential chaos into seamless pivots. By sending out a short demo video with the registration confirmation email, you can jumpstart app adoption. Just showing attendees how the app works makes all the difference.
From the user’s side, having a personalized agenda in their pocket, complete with live updates and push notifications, feels like having a pocket-sized concierge. It’s not just helpful. It’s reassuring.
- Reliable Support That Shows Up When It Matters
Even the most advanced tech stack won’t shine without reliable customer support. Events move fast, and when something unexpected happens, having experienced support on standby makes all the difference.
With eShow, event planners aren’t just relying on software; they’re backed by a team that understands live events. From seamless onboarding to ongoing guidance, eShow helps you stay informed about the latest technology enhancements while keeping everything running smoothly.
The goal is simple: create a seamless experience where attendees stay focused on the content, not the technology. That’s the power of a fully integrated platform backed by people who care.
Final Thoughts
Ask any seasoned planner, and they’ll tell you that adopting comprehensive conference management tools transformed their event experience entirely. The right platform doesn’t just streamline your logistics; it fundamentally changes what’s possible.
When registration systems intelligently adapt to last-minute attendees, abstract management flows without email chains, and real-time updates reach thousands instantly, event professionals can shift from logistics management to strategic thinking.
That’s what eShow aims to deliver. It’s not just logistics, but a path to presence. Because when the tech works, it fades into the background, letting the connections, ideas, and energy take center stage.
Connect with eShow today and let us help turn your next event into an unforgettable experience.
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]]>The post eShow and NoteAffect Partner to Empower Events to Use Education as a Strategy appeared first on eShow.
]]>eShow and NoteAffect Announce
New Strategic Partnership
eShow and NoteAffect Empower Events
to Use Education as a Strategy
January 8, 2026, South Barrington, IL – eShow, a leading provider of event management solutions, and NoteAffect, an interactive learning experience for education and events, today announced a strategic partnership to empower events to use their education as a strategy that delivers real measurable engagement.
“With eShow and NoteAffect, event education is no longer a checkbox, it’s a strategy. Even in a world of economic and geopolitical uncertainty, education is a variable that events can actually control and use to their advantage as a top reason to attend, extend their reach, and generate new revenue.” said Jay Tokosch, CEO and Founder of NoteAffect.
The partnership empowers event organizers with tools to streamline the planning and execution of their conference along with leveraging their education content and attendee learning experience to create and measure real engagement for program success.
“eShow makes it easy for organizers to manage their entire event in one place where the data and attendee experience pairs seamlessly with NoteAffect through the eShow event app to maximize engagement before, during, and after the event.” said Raju Patel, CEO and Founder of eShow.
eShow offers a full suite of event technology solutions that cover the entire event lifecycle, including registration management, trade show and exhibition tools, mobile apps, conference management, and more. eShow’s platform allows for better management of logistics, attendee tracking, and engagement.
NoteAffect software simultaneously records and broadcasts live session content directly through the eShow event app for in-person attendees to take notes, follow along with multilingual live captioning, and ask questions. The recorded visuals+audio then sync into segmented chapters with AI summaries that attendees will actually watch.
Organizers using eShow and NoteAffect can now create and measure tangible engagement so they know exactly what content to program, repurpose, promote, and monetize that anchors attendance, extends their reach, and generates new revenue. eShow’s conference management tools centralize speaker coordination, session scheduling, and venue logistics into one integrated platform, automating workflows and freeing meeting planners to focus on delivering exceptional attendee experiences. Current clients of either company are encouraged to reach out to their account representative to learn more about how they can leverage this powerful partnership.
About eShow
Founded in 1996, eShow provides powerful solutions for event organizers, including registration, mobile apps, conference management, exhibit management, and more. For 30 years, eShow has helped thousands of clients streamline their event processes and deliver exceptional experiences. Learn more at goeshow.com.
About NoteAffect
NoteAffect interactive learning and recording tools turn your event education content and attendee learning experience into measurable engagement that anchors attendance, extends your reach, and generates new revenue. Learn more at www.noteaffect.com/event-engage
###
Media Inquiries:
Diane Hurley
eShow, Director of Marketing and Communications
[email protected]
847.620.4474
Collin Tokosch
NoteAffect, Business Development
[email protected]
410.991.8498
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]]>You need more than a checklist to keep speaker communication smooth. It’s about staying organized without losing the small moments (like a personal note or thoughtful nudge) that make speakers feel truly welcome.
Key Highlights:
- Set clear expectations early with centralized deadlines and resources
- Personalize communication to build stronger speaker engagement
- Use a single speaker portal to eliminate last-minute scrambling
- Balance automation with a human touch to stay efficient and authentic
- Follow up post-event to strengthen long-term speaker relationships
- Set Expectations Early
Imagine being a speaker juggling three upcoming events. You’re grateful when one organizer sends you a welcome packet that clearly spells out key dates, formats, and submission deadlines, removing the need to dig through scattered emails.
That’s the kind of experience you want to create. From the start, give speakers a clear roadmap. Tools like eShow’s Conference Management software mean your speakers always know where to find deadlines and forms, so there’s no more inbox searches or missing attachments.
- Personalize, Don’t Mass-Produce
Mass-produced or automated emails can still be personalized, and your speakers will appreciate it. Mention their specific topic. Refer to how their session fits into the theme. This helps set a collaborative tone and encourages prompt responses. Plus, personalized communication lowers the chances of misalignment or missed details.
You can use tools to handle reminders automatically, but don’t skip the part where you send a quick note that says ‘Looking forward to your session!’ That’s what makes the connection meaningful.
- Keep Everything in One Place
Give speakers a portal or dashboard where they can update session and/or speaker profiles, upload materials, view deadlines, and track what’s outstanding. With eShow’s speaker and session management tools, everything’s ready and easy to find, so you’re not digging through your inbox at midnight for a missing bio.
It’s the difference between last-minute scrambling and feeling ready when the event opens.
- Be Mindful of the Speaker’s Experience
Your speakers are investing their time and expertise. The easier you make their journey, the more likely they’ll deliver polished and engaging presentations and want to work with you again.
Consider small but meaningful steps:
- The speaker checklist provides descriptions, direct links to tasks, deadline dates, and more, with the option to check off each item
- Offer optional tech checks or AV dry runs, especially for virtual/hybrid sessions
- Share audience insights (e.g., expected size, industry focus) so they can tailor content
These touchpoints show that you’re thinking beyond logistics and helping set them up for success.
- Automate, But Stay Human
Yes, automation is essential in speaker management. But don’t let it drain the personality out of your communication. It’s a fine balance. Automation helps you stay on schedule, but if it starts to sound robotic, you risk losing that personal connection that makes speakers feel valued.
eShow’s Conference Management suite lets you:
- Send reminders for bios, headshots, or slides
- Share links to speaker portals
- Keep an audit trail of what’s been sent, with the ability to resend
We’ve seen firsthand how a single short email can turn a missed deadline into a happy speaker and a great presentation.
- Communicate Post-Event
Many organizers drop the ball once the event ends. Don’t be that person.
Take time to:
- Thank your speakers
- Share audience feedback or engagement stats
- Let them know if recordings will be distributed
These small gestures build goodwill and make it more likely they’ll say yes when you invite them next time.
Why Is Managing Speaker Correspondence Important?
Good speaker management isn’t just about staying organized. It’s also about helping someone step on stage feeling prepared and appreciated. And when they do, your audience notices, your sponsors remember, and your event truly connects.
You’re not just managing emails, you’re orchestrating an experience that makes your event (and your brand) stand out.
From First Email to Final Applause – Make It Seamless
When your speakers feel supported, they show up with energy and confidence, and that’s what your audience remembers long after the event. Take time to set clear expectations, personalize where it counts, and use tools like eShow’s to keep everything on track without losing the human touch.Want to make your next speaker lineup the smoothest yet? Take a closer look at how eShow’s Conference Management tool can help you bring clarity and calm to every step.
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]]>The post IAEE and eShow Continue Partnership to Power Expo! Expo! appeared first on eShow.
]]>IAEE and eShow Continue Partnership
IAEE and eShow Continue Partnership to Power Expo! Expo!
Dallas, 5 December 2025 – The International Association of Exhibitions and Events® (IAEE) announces it is now entering the second year of its partnership with eShow, an IAEE key provider of event management technology and onsite support services for its portfolio of events, including the flagship Expo! Expo! IAEE’s Annual Meeting & Exhibition.
Core solutions include Advance and Onsite Registration, state-of-the-art check-in and badging technology, Exhibit and Sponsorship Sales and Management, Call for Abstracts with Abstract Management, Speaker and Session (Conference) Management, and additional onsite services such as Session Scanning and Lead Retrieval.
“eShow is beyond thrilled to continue our work with IAEE as we enter the second year of this multi-year collaboration,” said eShow Founder and CEO Raju Patel. “This partnership reflects our commitment to long-term, supportive relationships that meet the evolving needs of show organizers. We look forward to continuing to partner with IAEE to advance how events are planned, executed, and experienced with innovative, end-to-end management technology.”
“IAEE is pleased to continue our partnership with eShow for Expo! Expo!,” said IAEE President and CEO Marsha Flanagan, M.Ed., CEM. “Through this multi-year collaboration, eShow’s innovative solutions will help us deliver a seamless and efficient experience for the Expo! Expo! community, supported by the breadth and depth of their services.”
Expo! Expo! IAEE’s Annual Meeting & Exhibition 2025 will be held 8-10 December in Houston, Texas. Click here for more information.
About IAEE
Trusted since 1928, IAEE provides quality and value to its members through leadership, service, education and strong relationships. IAEE is the largest association of the exhibitions and events industry in the world, with a membership of show organizers, exhibitors and exhibition suppliers. Organizers of more than 20,000 exhibitions and buyer-seller events around the world are members of IAEE, and the organization advocates and promotes the awareness of face-to-face exhibitions and events as the primary medium for business development and growth. IAEE provides relevant, timely and innovative education to its members and the industry. IAEE recognizes its strategic partners: 4imprint, Convention News Television (CNTV), eShow, Freeman, GES | onPeak, Grit Productions and Expositions, IMEX, New Orleans & Company, New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, Risk Strategies Company | Buttine Insurance, Snöball and Swapcard. Visit https://www.iaee.com/ for more information.
About eShow
Founded in 1996, eShow provides powerful web-based solutions for event organizers, including registration, mobile apps, conference management, exhibit management, and more. For over 25 years, eShow has helped thousands of clients streamline their event processes and deliver exceptional experiences. Learn more at goeshow.com.
###
Media Inquiries:
Mary Tucker
Sr. Communications & Content Manager | IAEE
+1 (972) 687-9226
[email protected]
Diane Hurley
eShow Director of Marketing and Communications
+1 (847) 620-4474
[email protected]
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]]>The post 5 Tips to Boost Exhibitor and Attendee Engagement appeared first on eShow.
]]>Key Highlights:
- Use interactive floor plans in your event mobile app to guide attendees and increase booth traffic.
- Add scavenger hunts, QR code check-ins, and digital leaderboards to make participation fun and boost booth visits.
- Send personalized push notifications to maximize session and booth attendance.
- Empower exhibitors with instant badge scanning and CRM-ready lead tagging to strengthen post-event follow-up.
- Gather feedback and insights to refine future events and enhance both attendee and exhibitor engagement.
How Can Interactive Exhibit Floor Plans and Navigation Increase Engagement?
Why It Matters
Complex venues can overwhelm attendees, which leads to missed booths, lower traffic, and frustrated exhibitors.
Strategy
Ever wandered through a massive convention center, badge swinging, trying to find a breakout session that started five minutes ago? It’s a challenge that can quickly diminish the attendee experience.
That’s why event planners are ditching static maps and moving to interactive, app-based navigation. With a quick tap, people can see exactly where they are and where they’re headed next. It’s like giving everyone a personal guide, minus the walkie-talkie. Studies show clear navigation increases booth visitation and dwell time.
eShow’s Exhibition and Trade Show Management module supports interactive floor plans and integrates them into the event mobile app. Attendees can find exhibitors by name, product, or category, making it easier for attendees to stumble upon new booths naturally and without needing a hard sell.
2. Does Gamification Boost Attendee Participation?
Why It Works
Let’s be honest, everyone loves a good game, especially when it means free swag and leaderboard glory. Research from the Center for Exhibition Industry Research (CEIR) revealed gamification can increase lead generation by up to 40%.
Strategies
You might spot people darting from booth to booth, phones in hand. They’re not checking email, but collecting digital points for a scavenger hunt. Some are chasing a prize, others just want to top the leaderboard splashed on the event app. And for a few, it’s about bragging rights, and let’s be honest, who can blame them?
Gamification doesn’t have to be complex, virtual check-ins, badge collecting, or sponsor-powered giveaways all add just enough spark to pull people in.
For attendees, it’s a mix of not wanting to miss out and fun. For exhibitors, it’s a subtle way to rise above the booth next door without saying a word.
Make It Interactive With eShow
With digital check-ins and the ability to create fun, engaging scavenger hunts using QR codes built into eShow’s event mobile app, it’s simple to turn booth visits into a game people actually want to play. Exhibitors get increased visibility when attendees collect points at their booth within the app.
3. Do Personalized Push Notifications Enhance Engagement?
Why It Matters
Conferencing is dynamic. Rooms can change, demos shift, and sponsors host unexpected events. When a packed breakout room moves floors last minute, who actually sees the updated signage? Hardly anyone. But a ping on your phone? That’s instant clarity and zero feelings of chaos.
Strategies
- Session / Booth Push Notifications: Notify attendees when demo times or inventories change.
- Reminders: Remind attendees about upcoming networking sessions, session start times, and other important conference events.
We’ve all scrambled to find the right breakout room after a last-minute change. Or missed a flash giveaway because we didn’t get the memo. Push notifications solve that. Organizers can schedule and automate messages to personalized attendee lists, boosting attendee responsiveness.
4. Can Seamless Lead Retrieval and Networking Improve Exhibitor and Attendee Connections?
Why It Matters
Let’s be honest, most exhibitors don’t spend thousands on a booth just to hand out swag and hope people stop by. They’re there to make real connections, start meaningful conversations, and walk away with solid leads. But when those moments happen in a blur of business cards and rushed handshakes, it’s easy for opportunities to slip through the cracks.
That’s where having the right tools, like mobile badge scanners and instant lead tagging, can make all the difference. It’s not just about collecting contacts. It’s about capturing context while the conversation’s still fresh.
According to CEIR’s Maximizing Attendee and Exhibitor Engagement on the Exhibit Floor Series: Part One: Exhibitor In-booth Tactices: People, Product, Learning and Other Strategies, findings from the 2022 Onminchannel Marketing Insights Series revealed badge scanning ranked first in attendee engagement, with 75% attendees using it to connect with the exhibitors they visit. This exceptionally high level of participation underscores how effective lead capture can be in fostering exhibitor and attendee engagement.
Strategies
Picture this: An exhibitor’s booth is buzzing. Business cards flying, conversations flowing. But three hours later, it’s all a blur. Who was that buyer from Seattle? What were they looking for again? That’s why scanning badges on the spot and tagging leads as “hot” or “follow-up later” isn’t just a nice-to-have. It’s survival. Even better when that info syncs with your CRM, so your next email doesn’t sound like you’ve forgotten the conversation.
Tools like eShow’s Lead Retrieval badge scanners and export-ready formats make it simple to keep the momentum going, even after the booth packs up. But they don’t just collect badge data, they let you tag hot leads, export to your CRM, and follow up while the conversation is still fresh. A smooth post-show process helps exhibitors build on event momentum.
5. How Can Feedback Improve Your Event Next Year?
Why It Matters
Qualitative and quantitative feedback shows what resonated and what drove drop-off.
Strategies
- Survey Reminders: Schedule post-session push notifications to drive attendee feedback.
- Session Attendance Tracking: Measure room occupancy and dwell time.
If a session cleared out halfway through, that’s a signal. If one demo had a crowd three people deep all day, that’s another. The data tells the story if you’re listening.
How eShow Helps
eShow’s Conference Management suite provides detailed insights on session attendance and surveys. Organizers can track popularity and feedback to trend exhibit traffic and inform next-event planning.
Bringing It All Together: End-to‑End Engagement
Here’s how these tips combine into an enhanced event experience:
| Engagement Area | Audience Benefit | Exhibitor Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Interactive Maps | Easier navigation to areas of interest | Higher booth visibility |
| Gamification | Fun incentives to explore, attend sessions | Boosted foot traffic & brand awareness |
| Push Notifications | Always in the know, no missed opportunities | Flexibility in demo or promotional timing |
| Lead Retrieval | Efficient networking avoids paper forms | More meaningful, prioritized leads |
| Analytics & Feedback | Inputs help shape future schedules | Exhibitors adjust demos/materials for impact |
By combining navigation, incentives, communication, and measurement, you orchestrate a more engaging experience for both exhibitors and attendees.
Final Takeaway
Exhibitor and attendee engagement isn’t a single tactic; it’s a carefully choreographed experience. When attendees find what they want, exhibitors connect meaningfully, and the event runs smoothly, success becomes measurable. This is what makes the experience feel smooth and intentional for everyone involved.
With eShow’s solutions, from mobile apps to lead retrieval and registration management, organizers can activate each engagement tip efficiently and meaningfully. Help your attendees feel seen. Give your exhibitors real value. And run an event that people don’t just show up to, but talk about afterward and return to the following year.
Ready to learn more? Let us know how we can help you get started.
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]]>The post Get Everyone Onboard: Winning Buy-In for Your 2026 Event Tech Transformation appeared first on eShow.
]]>You might have the slickest tech plan in hand, but if you don’t show you’ve really heard your team’s worries or explain it in terms that matter to them, it’s tough to get them on board. Let’s break down how to make your case for a 2026 event tech transformation and how eShow’s suite of solutions can help you deliver.
Start with the Why: Make It About People, Not Just Platforms
When you’re asking your team to try something new, rattling off tech features won’t win. What people want to hear is how it’ll make their lives easier, whether they’re managing the event or attending it. For example:
- Faster check-ins, fewer lines: No one loves waiting. A streamlined digital registration system (like eShow’s Registration Management) means attendees move from entrance to engaged in minutes.
- Personalized journeys: Imagine attendees getting real-time recommendations for sessions or exhibitors based on their interests, thanks to integrated data and agenda tools.
Less chaos for staff: Digital solutions reduce the stress of juggling spreadsheets, badges, and paper forms. - Smarter workflows, more impact: Streamlining processes means your team can do more with fewer resources. Digital tools help save time, reduce costs, and free up staff to focus on creating meaningful experiences and not just chasing paperwork.
When your colleagues see how these changes directly address common pain points, they’ll be more open to exploring solutions.
Bring Data, Not Just Ideas
You might be picturing interactive floor plans and instant surveys, but your CFO’s thinking: ‘Show me where this saves us time or makes money.’ That’s when data and real-world examples help your case.
And don’t forget internal metrics. If past events had check-in bottlenecks, data gaps, or poor post-event engagement, share that. Help stakeholders see that sticking to old methods comes with hidden costs.
Acknowledge Risks, Offer Solutions
Resistance often stems from fear: of cost overruns, tech failures, or a painful learning curve. Rather than dismiss these concerns, acknowledge them and show how you’ve thought them through. When you show in the room that you’ve anticipated the bumps, maybe even pulling up a plan B slide, that’s when heads start nodding. Consider covering solutions like:
- Cost efficiency: Digital platforms like eShow’s customizable solution cut down on the hassle of juggling five different vendors (registration, exhibits, mobile app, conference management) and bring it together in one place.
- Ease of adoption: Platforms that offer modular, integrated tools mean teams can phase in digital elements gradually.
- Support and training: Point out that partners like eShow provide training, technical support, and dedicated account managers to guide implementations.
- Extension of your team: eShow provides expert on-site support, training for temporary or volunteer staff, and top-tier customer service through our call center and data teams — helping with reconciliations, refunds, and attendee troubleshooting so your event runs smoothly and your team has time to focus on other aspects of the event.
Share a Vision of Integration, Not Just Tools
Imagine your marketing team watching leads flow directly into their CRM, or your event staff seeing real-time attendee counts on their dashboard without chasing down paper lists. It all clicks together into one seamless system.
For instance, describe a future event where:
- Registration data flows directly into lead retrieval tools, so exhibitors can follow up faster.
- A single dashboard shows real-time attendance, session engagement, and sponsor activations.
- Both in-person and virtual attendees feel part of the same experience, supported by hybrid tools.
eShow’s platform is built for this kind of end-to-end integration. No more chasing down spreadsheets or tracking badges by hand. The pieces just connect and your team breathes easier.
Build Allies Early
Getting organizational buy-in isn’t a solo act. Identify champions across departments who will benefit from the transformation. For example:
- Sales teams may love richer lead data from digital badge scans.
- Marketing teams can use session analytics to shape content strategy.
- Finance teams may appreciate cleaner reconciliation from integrated registration and payment systems.
Involve these stakeholders early, gather their input, and invite them to help shape the proposal. When marketing and sales both say ‘we need this,’ the room stops pushing back.
Pilot Before You Pitch Big
If leadership is wary of a full digital overhaul, suggest a pilot program. That first win could be using eShow’s Registration Management tool at a small expo to show how technology can help events run more efficiently. This not only builds confidence but it also gives you data to leverage when making a case for more tech investment. Suddenly, leadership’s not so wary of the bigger leap.
Frame Your 2026 Event Tech Transformation as an Ongoing Journey
Digital transformation isn’t a one-and-done task. Make clear that your vision is about continuous improvement, with each event building on the last. Highlight how solutions like eShow’s evolve with your needs whether that’s adding an event website, new gamification features, or advanced analytics.
That narrative shifts the conversation from “one big risk” to “a thoughtful, step-by-step strategy.”
It’s About More Than Tech
It’s not the event website or app they’ll remember. It’s that moment when an attendee says, ‘Wow, I didn’t expect that to go so smoothly,’ as they breeze past the check-in line. That’s what gets people on board.With tools that fit the way your team works, you can spend less time putting out fires in 2026 and more time creating moments that people talk about long after the doors close. From registration to conference management to mobile engagement, eShow’s modular event management solutions give your organization the confidence to take that next step with confidence.
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]]>eShow and Bear Analytics Announce Partnership
eShow and Bear Analytics Announce Strategic Partnership to Deliver Powerful Unified Event Intelligence
Collaboration empowers event organizers with robust management technology and actionable analytics
South Barrington, IL & Arlington, VA – August 6, 2025 – eShow, a leading provider of event management solutions, and Bear Analytics, the event industry’s premier data analytics platform, today announced a strategic partnership designed to equip event professionals with an integrated solution that spans both event execution and actionable event insights.
This partnership brings together eShow’s robust suite of planning and execution tools with Bear Analytics’ flagship platform, Bear IQ, to deliver a seamless experience for event organizer’s leadership, from registration and session management to real-time reporting and long-term strategic planning. Clients of both companies will benefit from a new level of visibility into attendee engagement behavior, revenue trends and forecasts, and event performance metrics, enabling them to make more timely, more informed decisions that drives growth and maximizes ROI on marketing spend.
“We’re excited to collaborate with Bear Analytics to bring a new dimension of intelligence and actionable insights to the event lifecycle,” said Raju Patel, CEO and Founder of eShow. “By integrating Bear IQ with our platform, we’re giving our clients the power to not only manage their events efficiently, but also to rapidly understand what’s working, what’s not, and how to continuously elevate the attendee experience.”
“This partnership is about taking advantage of the great value available through data that historically goes untapped,” said Joe Colangelo, CEO and Co-Founder of Bear Analytics. “Together with eShow, we’re closing the loop between event planning, execution, and insight – offering organizers a holistic, end-to-end view of their event performance and the tools to act on it.”
The integration enables users to easily pull data from eShow’s ecosystem into Bear IQ dashboards and reports, making it simple to monitor key performance indicators such as y-o-y registration trends, exhibitor and sponsorship revenue, attendee engagement, session attendance, and more—all in real time and without the need for manual uploads or fragmented data sources.
This partnership reflects a shared vision between eShow and Bear Analytics: to empower event organizers with the tools and intelligence they need to plan, grow, and deliver meaningful, high-impact events.
This joint offering is now available. Current clients of either company are encouraged to reach out to their account representative to learn more about how they can activate the integration.
About eShow
eShow provides powerful web-based solutions for event organizers, including registration, mobile apps, conference management, exhibit management, and more. For over 25 years, eShow has helped thousands of clients streamline their event processes and deliver exceptional experiences. Learn more at www.goeshow.com.
About Bear Analytics
Bear Analytics is a data intelligence company transforming how event organizers harness and act on their data. Its proprietary platform, Bear IQ, centralizes data from across the event ecosystem – giving event professionals a single pane of glass to improve performance, boost engagement, and accelerate growth. Learn more at www.bearanalytics.com.
Media Inquires:
Diane Hurley
eShow, Director of Marketing and Communications
[email protected]
847.620.4474
Eric Misic
Bear Analytics, Co-Founder
[email protected]
571-259-4193
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]]>Planning and executing successful events takes more than just technology. It requires a combination of the right tools, strategic support, and a partner who understands how to keep everything running smoothly. eShow offers complete event management solutions designed to help planners save time, improve efficiency, and deliver better outcomes. Below are answers to the most frequently asked questions about how eShow can help you manage your events with greater confidence and control.
1. What are event management solutions and how does eShow support them?
Event management solutions refer to the full set of tools and services used to plan, organize, and manage events from start to finish. eShow provides customizable modules that cover registration, exhibitor, tradeshow, and sponsorship management, mobile event apps, virtual platforms, and post-event reporting. Each module is designed to work together as one complete system.
2. How does eShow help reduce check-in times and improve the arrival experience?
With on-demand badge printing and digital check-in tools, eShow helps eliminate long lines and delays at the registration desk. Guests can check in quickly, and planners gain real-time visibility into arrivals. These solutions help create a smooth and professional first impression.
3. How can eShow help me better manage exhibitors and sponsors?
Managing your exhibit hall should feel efficient and rewarding, not overwhelming. eShow’s exhibitor management system makes it easy to create and update your floor plan, manage booth sales, and keep everything organized in one place. The intuitive interface simplifies booth assignments and gives you a clear view of availability in real time. Exhibitors and sponsors can update their own profiles and materials, reducing the back-and-forth and freeing up your time. Built-in tools like lead capture and post-event reporting help you demonstrate value and build stronger relationships year after year.
4. Why does a reliable lead capture tool matter?
Because it directly impacts how your exhibitors measure success. When lead capture works seamlessly, exhibitors can focus on real conversations instead of juggling paperwork or worrying about missed opportunities. eShow’s lead capture tools ensure that every scan counts, with real-time notes, lead scoring, and easy data exports that streamline follow-up. The result is a smoother experience for your exhibitors and stronger ROI that keeps them coming back.
5. How does eShow’s mobile event app improve attendee engagement and event experience?
They make it easier for participants to connect, explore, and take action. eShow’s mobile event app puts schedules, maps, and personalized agendas at attendees’ fingertips, helping them navigate your event with ease. Features like real-time push notifications, live polling, and in-app messaging keep engagement high throughout the day. Paired with tools like digital check-in, lead capture, and real-time updates, you create a connected experience that keeps everyone informed, involved, and ready to return.
6. Can I integrate eShow with my current systems?
Yes. eShow integrates with a wide range of systems, including AMS, CRMs, payment gateways, marketing platforms, and more. Our team works closely with you to keep your data connected and secure without disrupting your existing processes.
7. How does eShow support sustainability in events?
eShow helps planners reduce waste by offering digital alternatives to printed materials. On-demand badge printing, paperless exhibitor kits, and mobile apps all help lower your environmental impact while improving the overall event experience.
8. What makes eShow different from other event platforms?
eShow offers more than software. We combine 26 years of experience with strategic insight and personalized support. Our modular approach allows you to select only the tools you need, while our team works closely with you to configure them for your specific goals. You receive both powerful technology and expert guidance in one solution.
9. How do I know which eShow solutions are right for my event?
Every event has different needs. Whether you are planning a trade show, annual conference, or multi-day hybrid experience, our team will help you identify the tools that best fit your objectives, audience, and budget. We offer scalable solutions tailored to your event size and structure.
10. How do I get started with eShow or request a demo?
You can request a results-driven personalized demo with our event solutions experts. We will guide you through the most relevant features for your event and provide a customized quote based on your needs.
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]]>Insights from the Experts at eShow
As summer begins, it is an ideal time for event professionals to reassess, refine, and recharge their planning strategies. The fall season often brings a wave of events and with it, increased pressure to deliver seamless, high-impact experiences. Whether you are organizing conferences, trade shows, or association meetings, making smart event technology moves now can help you stretch your budget, save time, and reduce planning stress.
Here are five strategic shifts to consider, based on insights from eShow’s 26 years of experience helping planners run better events.
1. Reevaluate Your Event Tech Stack for Efficiency and Integration
If your current systems are disconnected or require repetitive tasks, now is the right time to consider an all-in-one event management solution. Using multiple systems often results in fragmented data and more manual work.
Expert insight: Centralizing registration, exhibit floor management, and reporting in one platform allows you to simplify operations and focus more on event outcomes rather than logistics.
2. Optimize Lead Capture Before Your Fall Exhibitors Arrive
Happy exhibitors are more likely to return, and their satisfaction often depends on their ability to capture and follow up on leads. With fall shows approaching, upgrading your lead retrieval software now can ensure your exhibitors are equipped to succeed.
Expert insight: Provide customizable lead capture tools that let exhibitors rate leads, add notes, and download reports. This not only increases their ROI, but also enhances your show’s long-term exhibitor retention.
3. Improve First Impressions with On-Demand Badge Printing
A smooth check-in process sets the tone for the entire event. On-demand badge printing allows for quick, efficient check-in while also minimizing waste from unused pre-printed badges.
Expert insight: Self-check-in kiosks can reduce staffing needs and give your participants a modern, professional first impression. They also help support sustainability goals by only printing what is necessary.
4. Use Real-Time Data to Inform Fall Event Planning
Your event data should not sit unused until after the event. Real-time insights allow you to adjust strategies while your planning is still in motion.
Expert insight: Track registration trends, session interest, and engagement now so you can refine your marketing, improve the event flow, or highlight high-demand content areas.
5. Move from Manual Outreach to Automated Communication
Effective communication increases engagement and improves the overall event experience. If you are still manually sending emails or reminders, it is time to explore automation.
Expert insight: Automated campaigns can deliver personalized touchpoints such as reminders, updates, and surveys. This frees your team to focus on higher-level planning while maintaining strong connections with participants.
Bonus: Prioritize Sustainability in Every Tech Decision
Event organizers are under growing pressure to align with sustainability goals. Whether you are reducing printed materials or offering hybrid attendance options, your event technology choices play a key role in minimizing environmental impact.
Expert insight: Incorporate digital solutions wherever possible to reduce waste and create a greener event. This approach appeals to participants and sponsors who prioritize sustainability and demonstrates your commitment to environmentally responsible practices.
Plan Smarter Now for a Smoother Fall Season
If you want your fall events to run more smoothly, now is the time to assess where your tools and processes can be improved. From intuitive floor plan management and onsite badge printing to automation and analytics, the right updates today can lead to stronger outcomes tomorrow.
See how eShow can help you plan smarter and execute more effectively.
Explore eShow Solutions for Fall Events
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