Three Obscure Terms

Ok, I’m going to be completely vulnerable here. I think I’ve mentioned before that before our 3-day in-person event transitioned to a completely online experience this past January, I had not planned an online event of this magnitude. It included 40+ breakout sessions, 8+ keynote addresses during 6 general sessions, musical content, creative content, and community stories (all pre-recorded), plus, it was live-hosted by an Emcee and members of the team. Just for fun, we had a virtual exhibit hall that contained over 55 digital trade show booths. It was a blast and we had the largest attendance in our 40+ year history. Here’s where the vulnerability comes in…

After researching over 35 online platform providers (see my previous blog “5 Time-Saving Tips When Researching Online Platform Providers”) there are a couple of terms that kept coming up in conversation that are not easily google-able and are not normal-person language. I was at a disadvantage during some of my initial conversations until I got over myself and started asking for a detailed explanation of these things. Here are some definitions that will make the platform reps think you know what you’re doing. Not only that, but by understanding a couple of these terms, you could be a budget hero as well. These include:

• Wireframe – Sounds like a hanger or a dress form, right? It’s not too far off. This is the very detailed essence of how the entire platform will look, operate, feel, function, move, sound…. This is the most extensive, detailed outline you’ve ever created. At least, it is if you want to save time and money in repeated meetings to explain how you want the “Need Help?” button to function; where on the web page it’s located, what color it is, what font the words are, where the attendee is directed to when they click it, how the organization will receive the request… you get the idea. Multiply this detail for each video, download, speaker bio, clickable button, etc..
• Encoder – This sounded like a secret agent decoder ring to me. I still don’t fully understand how it functions, but it is essentially how the entire online event is broadcast from production, to the online platform, to the public. Sometimes the production company supplies it, sometimes the online platform provides it. If it’s not specified, nobody plans on providing it, however, there’s no event without it. The cost associated with a decent one of these can be pretty extensive. Basically, pay attention in conversation and in your contract(s) when this word comes up. Ask questions!
• Modle vs Tool Tip – A modle (mow-del, like mowing a lawn-and honestly I’m not even sure I’m spelling it right) brings up information or a description of a term when an attendee CLICKS on a word (like a thought bubble). A tool tip does the exact same thing, showing information, but this time the attendee only needs to HOVER over a word, then the thought bubble appears. Apparently, there is very different programming behind the two features which can change how your budget is impacted. If you are offered either of these features, they’re very cool, just make sure you choose the one that works for you.

Don’t underestimate the amount of time, energy, and ultimately money that is related to these aspects of an online event. If you understand these terms, you will be well on your way to an intelligent conversation with an online platform provider and can hopefully prevent a budget calamity in the process.

Have you encountered any obscure online platform terminology?
Share it here or email me.

Please share this blog on your social media and with anyone you know who is planning an online event. They’ll thank you for it!