The Ask

AvePoint is a leading provider of data management and cloud migration solutions, helping organizations achieve digital transformation with secure and reliable software solutions. The annual SHIFT Happens conference brings together IT leaders and professionals to discuss innovations and best practices in the cloud and collaboration spaces. This conference is a cornerstone for AvePoint, positioning them as thought leaders in digital transformation and engaging their audience with valuable insights, product advancements, and networking opportunities.

AvePoint approached Kennedy Events with unique challenges for their annual SHIFT Happens conference:

1. Audience Expectations: Given AvePoint’s tech-savvy audience, attendees expected an immersive, high-quality experience aligned with the latest trends in digital transformation.

2. Brand Cohesion Across Event Elements: Integrating AvePoint’s SHIFT Happens branding consistently across all physical and digital elements of the event required meticulous design and production.

3. Event Flow & Operational Complexity: The event was composed of multiple breakout sessions, keynote presentations, networking sessions, and interactive displays, each requiring precise coordination.

The primary goals for the SHIFT Happens conference were to:

• Establish AvePoint as a thought leader by creating an event that conveyed innovation and leadership in digital transformation.

• Enhance attendee engagement through a well-designed, brand-cohesive experience that felt both inspiring and seamless.

• Execute flawless logistics, from pre-event preparations through post-event follow-up, ensuring a polished and impactful attendee experience.

The Answer

Kennedy Events partnered with AvePoint to develop a strategy that would exceed expectations and deliver a memorable experience. Our approach focused on three main areas:

1. Collaborative Strategic Planning

   • We held regular planning sessions with AvePoint’s team to ensure alignment on the event’s goals, target audience needs, and brand messaging.

   • Together, we mapped out the attendee journey from start to finish, ensuring each stage of the event enhanced the overall experience and communicated AvePoint’s brand values.

2. Innovative Design and Production

   • Kennedy Events designed an immersive event environment that reflected the SHIFT Happens branding in every aspect, from large-scale stage backdrops to the finer details in signage and digital displays.

   • To engage attendees, we integrated interactive technology elements that brought the themes of digital transformation to life, using creative visuals and digital content to highlight AvePoint’s cutting-edge solutions.

3. Efficient On-Site Management

   • Our experienced on-site team oversaw every logistical detail, from registration and speaker support to session transitions, managing the flow and ensuring a smooth experience for all attendees.

   • We employed real-time adjustments to tackle any unforeseen challenges, ensuring that the event ran seamlessly from start to finish.

The results?

• Increased Engagement: Attendee feedback highlighted a high level of engagement, with many noting the smooth transitions and appealing design.

• Enhanced Brand Perception: The event reinforced AvePoint’s brand as an innovative thought leader, with a visual and experiential setup that impressed attendees.

• Operational Excellence: Kennedy Events’ meticulous on-site management ensured minimal disruptions, with logistics handled seamlessly.

The SHIFT Happens conference was a resounding success, meeting and exceeding AvePoint’s objectives. Key outcomes included:

• Positive Attendee Feedback: The event design and smooth execution left a lasting impression on attendees, many of whom expressed high satisfaction with the quality and relevance of the sessions and the seamless experience.

• Enhanced Brand Perception: AvePoint reinforced its position as an industry leader, with the SHIFT Happens conference reflecting its commitment to innovation and thought leadership.

• Operational Excellence: Kennedy Events’ attention to detail in event logistics ensured an experience that flowed naturally, allowing AvePoint’s team to focus on engaging with their audience rather than operational concerns.