Selecting Virtual & Hybrid Platforms & Tools

IEEE Conferences, Events & Experiences has compiled a list of platforms for conference organizers based on research, best practices, and experience. Each platform is unique, with varying capabilities including networking features, on-demand options, platform management, and more. We recommend identifying your event’s objectives and needs prior to reviewing and selecting a platform.

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Platform Vetting

The virtual platforms below have been separated into the following categories:

Enabled

These platforms have been vetted by IEEE IT and are accessible to IEEE conference organizers through a license or full event management. They are accessible to IEEE conference organizers through a supported DIY model or full digital event management.

Trialed

These platforms have been used by an IEEE event. They are available on a per-event basis and require a new event contract.

Explored

These platforms have not yet been vetted by IEEE IT, but have been reviewed by our Subject Matter Experts.

Platform Categories

Each virtual platform has unique characteristics that can help you meet your event objectives.

Price Range
Livestream/ Webinar Solutions
Do-It-Yourself (DIY)/
Self-Serve Options
Networking
Full Virtual Event Environment
On-Demand
Trade Show/Exhibitor

Virtual Event Platform Comparison

Platform Price Range Livestream/ Webinar Solutions Do-It-Yourself (DIY)/Self-Serve Options Networking Full Virtual Event Environment On-Demand Trade Show/Exhibitor Best Used For
Enabled
Engagez
Self-serve full virtual event environment
Eventsential by RD Mobile
Self-serve full virtual event environment
Google Meet
Small group networking & webinars
ON24
Webinars
OnAir by EventsAir
Full virtual event environments
WebEx
Webinars
Zoom
Small group networking & webinars
Grip
Full virtual event environment/group networking
BigMarker
Webinars
Trialed
6Connex
Large events w/ trade shows
Digitell Inc.
Full virtual event environments
Hopin
Self-serve full virtual event environment
Hubb
Self-serve full virtual event environment
Maxwhere Smartboards
On demand & poster sessions
Run the World
Networking
vFairs
Large events w/ trade shows
Whova
Self-serve full virtual event environment
Gatherly
Small group networking
Explored
Adobe Connect
Small group networking & webinars
Brella
Networking
Conference Scheduling Solutions (CSS)
Networking
Cvent Virtual Platform
Full virtual event environments
EventMobi
Self-serve full virtual event environment
InEvent
Self-serve full virtual event environment
Intrado
Full virtual event environments
IMS Technologies
Large events w/ trade shows
JUNO
Full virtual event environments
Meeting Play's Virtual Environment
Networking
OmniPress
On demand & poster sessions
Pathable
Self-serve full virtual event environment
PheedLoop
Self-serve full virtual event environment
Workcast
Full virtual event environments

Complementary Apps

Application
Price Range
Best Used For
Enabled
Box
Secure staging area for videos before uploading them to your virtual platform
Vimeo
Secure staging area for videos to connect to your virtual platform
Zapier
Simple integration of third-party apps to help automate workflows
SpatialChat
A virtual space where people can network and form groups for conversations, using proximity-based technology

Virtual Event Platform Complexity

Virtual event platforms range from simple to robust in terms of the features they offer. The following guide will help you select a platform that best meets the needs of your event. To learn more about how to activate these platforms for your events, please contact the vendor directly.

complexity chart

In-Depth Platform Analysis

Looking to dive a little deeper? Peruse this detailed analysis of several popular virtual event platforms.

We Are Here to Help

If you have questions about virtual and hybrid event platforms, please contact the CEE team.