As an event organizer, planner, or marketer planning your first important in-person event, you understand the pain of manually managing event registration. Spreadsheets, guest lists, and manual ticket sales can quickly become a nightmare. But thanks to event registration software, the process can be streamlined, saving you time and energy.
What is Event Registration Software?
Event registration software is an event management tool that automates the registration process for your event. It streamlines online event registration, payment processing, check-in, badge management, email marketing, and more.
This cloud-based functionality is helpful for both in-person and virtual events, and with the rise of hybrid events, it's a must-have in your event management toolbox.
Features of Event Registration Software
The standard event registration software comes packed with the following features:
Branded registration pages or standalone event pages
Event ticketing: multiple ticket types, ability to sell add-ons
Payment processing with credit cards and other online payment methods
Integrations with Stripe and other similar payment processors
Invoicing and offline payment methods
Attendee management (guest list and rsvp management)
Social media integrations
Event marketing
Comprehensive analytics and reporting
Email marketing tools
Integration with CRM systems
Check-in: assisted check-in, kiosks, mobile app for onsite check-ins
Name badge management
Benefits of Using Event Registration Software
The key benefits of using event registration software include the following:
Streamlined Registration: Event registration software simplifies registration, allowing attendees to register quickly and effortlessly.
Comprehensive Data Capture: With customizable registration forms, you can collect all the necessary information from your attendees.
Improved Attendee Management: Real-time attendee management helps keep track of your guest lists, ensuring you have an accurate headcount.
Built-In Event Marketing: Event registration software helps market your event on social media platforms and via email marketing.
Faster Check-In: The mobile app functionality allows for smooth onsite check-ins, reducing waiting times and enhancing the event experience.
What Makes a Top-Performing Event Registration Software?
The distinction between top-performing event registration software and average ones often lies in their scalability, integration capabilities, user interface, and customer support.
Top-tier software offers flexible and robust functionality, seamlessly integrates with other management systems such as CRMs or email marketing platforms, has an intuitive and user-friendly interface, and provides excellent customer support.
Risks When Buying Event Registration Software
When purchasing event registration software, the most significant risk is investing in a platform that doesn't meet your needs.
Factors like inadequate functionality, poor user experience, lack of necessary integrations, and insufficient support can make your event management exceptionally challenging.
Decision Makers in Event Registration Software Selection
Event planners, event marketers, IT professionals, and even your finance department should be part of the decision process. Each brings a different perspective and insight into what the best event registration tool should offer.
Criteria to Select the Best Event Registration Software
When selecting your event registration software, consider the following:
Does the software have the features I need?
Is it tailored to my industry or specialized function (e.g., fundraising, auctions, membership management)?
Does the software support my chosen event format (in-person, virtual, or hybrid)?
Does it integrate well with my other management tools?
Can I customize features and workflows to fit my needs?
What white labeling and branding options does the software offer?
Can the software handle the expected attendee volume?
Can I rely on 24/7 customer support by real people? Can I get premium support if I need it?
Does the software offer a structured onboarding process?
Is the software cost-effective, and does it fit within my budget?
The Top 7 Event Registration Software Solutions
Based on the above criteria, we suggest you consider these seven event registration platforms:
Bizzabo: Best for conference and meeting planners.
Whova: Best for attendee engagement features.
Regpack: Best for training and courses.
Wild Apricot: Best for non-profit and membership management.
Interview Questions for Event Registration Software Vendors
When interviewing event management solution vendors, ask:
What type of support do you offer?
How do you protect registrant data?
How secure is the payment processing system?
Can I integrate your registration software with my current business management systems?
Can I customize the registration process and registration forms?
Do you offer a mobile app for onsite operations?
Can you explain your pricing plans?
How Many Solutions to Shortlist?
Ideally, shortlist 3-5 vendors that best meet your event needs. This gives you various options to consider without overwhelming you with choices.
Validating Your Final Selection
Validating your final selection includes:
Reviewing the vendor website.
Requesting a demo.
Reading reviews from other users.
Asking for a trial period.
Comparing the features against your event needs.
Single Solution or Combination?
An all-in-one event management software simplifies your event planning process. While selecting a combination of best-of-breed event technologies may provide a more tailored system, if you decide to take that path, it's essential to make sure these tools are fully integrated to ensure a smooth data exchange and a smooth and efficient operational flow.
Take Your First Step Towards a Better Event Registration System
The best event registration software can transform your event planning process, making it seamless, efficient, and effective. At Accelevents, we strive to provide innovative and helpful solutions to your event management needs. So why wait? Book a demo with us today, and experience how our enterprise-grade event management platform can take the complexity out of your event planning.
