exhibit design firms | The Exhibit Company, Inc.

The competition at trade shows is fierce. Exhibitors must find ways to cut through the noise and captivate their audience’s attention. This is difficult when everyone around you is doing the same! This is why exhibitors have no choice but to get more creative with their trade show displays. One way event production companies do this is by creating immersive experiences that use virtual reality and augmented reality.

Let’s talk more about what virtual reality and augmented reality are, the differences between them, and what they mean to the exhibit industry.

Virtual Reality (VR)

Virtual reality uses a headset to transport people to an immersive environment of their choice. For the purpose of trade shows, brands let attendees “travel” to their showrooms, retail stores, and behind-the-scenes areas. Attendees can also watch virtual product demonstrations and “meet” staff members.

The most popular VR devices are the:

Oculus Rift. The Oculus Rift uses state-of-the-art technology to immerse viewers into a new world. Viewers enjoy vivid experiences that are real and memorable.
Google Cardboard. Google Cardboard is a lightweight VR device made from cardboard. Though it isn’t as advanced as the Oculus Rift, it can cheaply and easily transform any smartphone into a VR headset.

Augmented Reality (AR)

Augmented reality adds interactive elements to the environment, such as in an exhibit space or on a brochure. To bring information to life, AR needs handheld devices like smartphones or tablets. This allows booth visitors to stay engaged with the exhibit while having alternative means of exploring the brand.

The most popular AR devices are:

Mobile devices. Mobile applications can be downloaded to smartphones and tablets so that visitors can interact with brands on new levels.
QR codes. Using QR codes, attendees can scan the codes and open up new possibilities, such as allowing quick access to product information and specifications.
Smart glasses. Visitors can put on a pair of smart glasses, also called wearable computer glasses, to add information to what they see.

Captivating Audiences with VR and AR

VR and AR are transforming the exhibit industry. Before this technology, brands were limited in the products and services they could bring to trade shows. Some products were too cumbersome, and some services were impossible to demonstrate. Thanks to VR and AR, attendees can view products and services in an interactive format, allowing them to form memorable experiences and meaningful connections.

As VR and AR continue to get more mainstream, we can expect to see more exhibitors using them as part of their trade show experience. Don’t get left behind – now is the time to get familiar with this virtual technology.

Technology has made incredible advancements over the years, inching its way into all types of industries. Even exhibit design firms have found a way to incorporate technology into their custom displays. Here at The Exhibit Company, Inc., we use technology to create touchable 3D experiences. These displays welcome interaction and are effective at developing memorable encounters.

Exhibit design firms like The Exhibit Company, Inc. continue to find new ways to integrate technology into their designs. Let’s examine a few of the ways that these advancements are already being used in their creations.

Touchscreens Free Up Time and Resources

With the rise of smartphones and tablets, people are naturally comfortable using touchscreen devices. Therefore, when visitors walk past a display and notice a touchscreen, they are instantly drawn to it. Interactive touchscreens are effective at delivering information and adapting to each user. This technology is also cost effective and environmentally friendly. We never hesitate to use touchscreens in our displays to enhance the user experience.

Mobile Apps Allow for Effective Lead Capture

Trade show apps bring the best technology to exhibitors. These apps allow for lead capturing, optimizing event success and driving ROI. Having contact information stored in a neat, organized manner is far better than having a fish bowl of names. As exhibitors can more easily measure the success of their trade show events, they see the value they’re getting from attending conventions and investing in custom booths. You can find some of our favorite lead capture apps in a previous post.

Digital Graphics Can be Adapted to Each User

We can’t ignore how good digital graphics have become over the years. Traditionally, printed materials were most popular for trade shows. The problem with printed materials is that they need to be re-printed for each show. This requires time and costs money. Digital graphics, on the other hand, are cost- and time-effective. Though the equipment can be an initial investment if not rented, digital displays can be used over and over again.

Technology Allows for Flexibility

Lastly, design firms like ourselves have a greater degree of freedom and flexibility because of advancements in technology. We can serve our clients better and provide individualized, immersive experiences. For example, custom smartphone apps offer new ways for exhibitors and visitors to connect and displays can be tailored to each person’s needs. Additionally, online tools such as social media and email are helpful for engaging with audiences before and after the event.

Technology has significantly benefited the exhibit design industry. As exhibitors see a greater return from their investment, they won’t hesitate to take advantage of more trade show events. This means more business for exhibit design firms as well as the opportunity to build bigger, better booths.

What VR & AR Means To The Exhibit Industry

How Technological Advancements Have Helped Exhibit Design Firms

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