Tewkesbury tech firm Gravit8 launches ‘world first’ DIY virtual event platform
Gravit8, which develops software for events and brand experience centres, has launched what it claims is a ‘world first’ DIY SAAS (software as a service) virtual event platform.
Based on its Virtual Event Platform (VEP), a true-to-life 3D virtual environment, Gravit8’s series of ready-to-use virtual tools including virtual exhibition halls, networking spaces, conference auditoriums and event spaces can now be accessed by organisers, brands, exhibitors, and delegates via a fully configurable DIY platform to use in a SAAS format.
Gravit8, based in Tewkesbury, has developed many virtual solutions for global brands such as Dixons Carphone Warehouse, Shell and ITV throughout the pandemic, and the new Gravit8 VEP expands upon the continued need of engaging and connecting brands to delegates, without, or alongside in-person interaction.
Post-Covid, the Virtual Event Platform has found its niche as a virtual option for in-person events including exhibitions, trade shows, congresses, and networking events. Offering a breadth of features, including an integrated group or peer-to-peer virtual networking system and time-bound sponsorship branding throughout, it is a market-first for this level of complexity and graphical quality, providing brands with a direct opportunity to replicate their in-person events in a virtual way and to reach wider audiences.
It attempts to replicate and expand upon the in-person experience of being at an exhibition, including walking the halls, visiting the stands, chatting, networking, attending seminars; even “bumping into” and chatting with nearby industry peers just like ‘real life’ events.
Alastair Reece, Managing Director of Gravit8, said: “The Virtual Event Platform (VEP) from Gravit8 is a true example of innovation in the tech-sector, born from filling the void for events and exhibitions during an unprecedented international pandemic. Our solution provided a much-needed alternative to plain, flat, dull video conferencing, and continues to grow in demand despite a return to in-person events – due to allowing exhibiting brands the freedom to really express themselves and their message.”
He added: “Since March 2020, Gravit8 has delivered hundreds of virtual events for world-leading brands and organisers. Each online event, just like live, requires its own sense of identity, atmosphere and functionality, and our experience of providing over 400,000 attendees with virtual experiences has allowed us to design what we feel is the ultimate online event platform. Some of our clients’ events saw a 500% increase in attendees compared with their in-person versions. One event offered by a pharmaceutical client was able to provide access to financially restricted medical professionals for the first time, meaning it was able to talk to medical staff about products and services in a way that it previously didn’t have access to. Removing the travel requirement saw a 60% uplift in members visiting from South America at that particular event.
“As the first fully-fledged virtual event environment available on the market, the platform ultimately gives brands the opportunity to truly differentiate themselves in the digital space, and enhance their overall customer engagement.”
Despite it only just being launched to market, the product has already been shortlisted for a handful of business and industry accolades, including this year’s GloucestershireLive Business Awards for Innovation.
The demo showcase can be viewed here.
