At Noodle Live, we’ve been using RFID name badges and wristbands for several years. For us, they offer one of the best event tech solutions. Not only can they help to streamline the delegate experience, but they can also help #EventProfs to gather really useful insights and data about their event. What’s more, they can even help to demonstrate the ROI of an event so that you can compete with other marketing channels for a piece of the marketing budget. Now that’s pretty nifty!
What on earth is RFID?
We get it. Tech jargon can feel a bit off-putting. But don’t let the name fool you. RFID is actually super simple, and we’re not just saying that because we’re massive tech geeks (although, we are. We’ve accepted that now).
RFID stands for radio frequency identification, which allows data to be passed from an RFID chip to an RFID reader, simply by holding the chip close to the reader.
The chances are, you’re already using RFID chips in your daily life. It’s the tech that powers your key fob, your pet’s microchip and any other tech that allows you to tap to activate.
RFID chips are so tiny that they could fit on the tip of your finger. The technology that powers the chip has been around for a while, but it’s only been cost-efficient enough to make it viable for use at events for the last few years.
How can I use RFID at my event?
RFID chips can be embedded within your guest’s name badges or specialised wristbands.
Ever received a name badge or wristband that allows you to tap to register for the event, sign up for sessions or even access personalised information points and request documents to be emailed out to your inbox? If you did, there’s a high chance it was powered by RFID.
RFID name badges and wristbands offer an alternative to the traditional barcode name badge that has been used at events for several years. RFID name badges can speed up registration times, keep track of who attended what session, allow delegates to swap contact details with exhibitors, instantly collect content, check in their coats and even bring up personalised messages at automated information points. Basically, they’re pretty bloomin’ useful.
What are the benefits of RFID name badges?
Umm, where do we start?
Team Noodle believe that RFID offers one of the most comprehensive solutions for creating streamlined events whilst also gathering loads of really useful data about what your delegates got up to whilst at the event. That data can be gathered together and used to demonstrate the ROI of your event, which could help you to compete with other marketing channels for a piece of the marketing budget. #EventProfs have always known that events are important for increasing brand loyalty and customer satisfaction. RFID can give you the data to back that up!
How do RFID name badges and wristbands compare to traditional barcodes? They’re usually able to be read from a greater distance as well as being quicker and easier to operate than barcodes and they can also be modified and updated without being reissued, so they offer more flexibility.
How else is RFID being used at events?
Budweiser implanted RFID chips into specially designed beer cups. When people clinked their glasses together they automatically became Facebook friends. At the New York marathon, runners had an RFID tag attached to their show. As they ran past certain screens, a video recorded by a loved-one would play, offering instant inspiration and uplift. Check out more cool uses of RFID right here.
How do I find out more about using RFID at my next event?
At Noodle Live, we love to chat and we’ve also got more than 5 years experience of implementing RFID (and it’s close cousin NFC) at live events, so we’re happy to help you decide whether RFID name badges will work for your particular event. Feel free to get in touch to arrange an in-person consultation (we make a mean cup of tea!) or phone conversation with one of our technology consultants.