ArchitectureBoston Expo (ABX) recently concluded its first-ever Virtual Experience, in conjunction with IWBC, the Industrialized Wood-based Construction Conference. The digital event was held December 2-3, with 1,902 participants on the platform.
The two-day event featured live and recorded educational workshops, four keynote presentations, exhibitor sponsored webinars, and networking opportunities. Most live sessions were followed by Q&A to enhance collaboration and learning.
The event featured a mix of educational conference workshops and programs, with 15 live each day and 61 available on-demand. Covering 15 educational tracks, the workshops and programs have garnered 2,106 views.
“All live classes have been recorded and are available on-demand, along with the existing on-demand sessions, to All-Access Pass registrants through March 31, 2021,” said Lindsay Roberts, ABX Group Director. “Attendees also have the opportunity to earn up to 102.5 continuing education credit hours from AIA/HSW, LA CES, and GBCI.”
In addition to education, attendees also had numerous opportunities to interact with the 118 exhibiting companies. Options were available to set virtual appointments, view videos, review materials, and learn about specific products through the Product Showcase area on the platform.
“We had great exhibitor participation with nearly 3,000 meeting requests sent,” said Roberts. “Even though we weren’t face-to-face in Boston as we originally planned, our exhibitors embraced this opportunity to engage with a new audience in a new way.”
First time registrants made up 47% of all virtual attendees. Architects made up the largest job function at 47%, followed by Executives (Presidents, CEOs, Principals, Owners), Consultants, and Project Managers.
Virtual attendees joined online from 39 states, with 73% from Massachusetts, followed by Texas, New Hampshire, California and New York. International attendees joined from 23 countries with the largest representation from Canada, Australia, New Zealand and the United Kington.
Focusing on social progress, inclusivity, and equity, the Women in Design Symposium was held during the virtual event and included the Award of Excellence Ceremony, a Keynote presentation, a happy hour, and two educational workshops.
BosNOMA (the Boston chapter of NOMA, the National Organization of Minority Architects), also held their symposium during the virtual event. Offerings included a panel on working toward equity in practice, two podcasts on architecture and design, and a B.R.A.V.E. conversation with BosNOMA leadership.
Registration will remain open at www.abexpo.com through March 31, 2021, for anyone who wants to access the on-demand presentations.
