Transforming the Event Industry: The Role of AR, VR, and Emerging Technologies in Event Management
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.48165/palash_IHMRanchi.2025.1.1.05Keywords:
Event Technology, Event Planning and Management, Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR), Virtual EventsAbstract
The event management industry is transforming due to the rapid integration of emerging technologies such as Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR). These innovations are significantly impacting various operational aspects, including strategic planning, attendee engagement, and service delivery. This study aims to explore the evolving role of AR and VR in enhancing event experiences and improving decision making efficiency. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the research combines quantitative surveys of event planners, observational studies comparing traditional and tech integrated events, and qualitative interviews with attendees and key stakeholders. The findings indicate substantial improvements in event outcomes, including a 30% increase in strategic planning effectiveness, a 17.5% boost in attendee engagement, and a 28.9% enhancement in decision-making processes. The results underscore the potential of immersive technologies to revolutionize event execution and knowledge dissemination. The study contributes to the growing body of literature on technological innovations in events, offering practical implications for event professionals seeking to leverage AR and VR for more immersive and efficient event experiences.
References
AttendeeGain. (2025). Innovative tech trends: AR, VR, and AI in events. https://attendeegain.com/innovative-tech-trends-ar-vr-and-ai-in-events/
Cheng, L., Smith, J., & Wang, Y. (2021). Overcoming resistance to immersive technologies in event management: User-centered approaches. Journal of Event Technology, 15(3), 210–225.
Cheng, Y., Wang, J., & Xu, L. (2021). Adoption of virtual reality technology in live events: Challenges and opportunities. Journal of Event Technology Management, 15(3), 114–130. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jetm.2021.03.007
Dacko, S. G. (2017). Enabling smart retail settings via mobile augmented reality shopping apps. Technological Forecasting and Social Change, 124, 243–256. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.techfore.2016.09.032
Duane, A., & Hagl, R. (2018). Exploring the impact of augmented reality and virtual reality technologies on business model innovation in technology companies in Germany. Australasian Conference on Information Systems 2018. https://aisel.aisnet.org/acis2018/35/
Dwyer, L., Forsyth, P., & Dwyer, W. (2021). Event tourism and digital transformation: A path to enhanced competitiveness. Tourism Management Perspectives, 38, 100836. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tmp.2021.100836
Efanga, U. O., Ezechi, C. P. D., & Ozor, K. C. (2024). Virtual reality as a modern tool for event management: A systematic review. Journal of Applied Business Research, 40, 127–137. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/388616798_Virtual_Reality_as_a_Modern_Tool_for_Event_Management_A_Systematic_Review
Event Technology Portal. (2025, March 10). Transforming events: Key technology trends for 2025. https://eventtechnology.org/2025/03/10/transforming-events-key-technology-trends-for-2025/
Garcia, A., & Martens, R. (2021). Virtual reality and audience engagement in the digital age. International Journal of Media and Event Studies, 9(2), 89–105.
Garcia, M., & Martens, K. (2021). Enhancing event engagement through immersive technologies: A review of AR/VR applications. International Journal of Event Management, 27(2), 145–160.
Hilken, T., Chylinski, M., de Ruyter, K., Heller, J., & Keeling, D. I. (2022). Exploring the frontiers in reality-enhanced service communication: From augmented and virtual reality to neuro-enhanced reality. Journal of Service Management, 33(4), 657–674. https://doi.org/10.1108/JOSM-08-2021-0303
Jeřábek, T., Rambousek, V., & Wildová, R. (2015). Perceptual specifics and categorisation of augmented reality systems. Procedia - Social and Behavioral Sciences, 191, 1740–1744. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sbspro.2015.04.642
Johnson, M., & Harris, T. (2020). Tech-savvy generations and their impact on event innovation. Journal of Experiential Marketing, 12(4), 211–225.
Kapoor, K., & Dwivedi, Y. K. (2023a). Digital transformation in service industries: Trends and future directions. Journal of Business Research, 150, 635–648.
Kapoor, K., & Dwivedi, Y. K. (2023b). Metaverse and the future of digital events: A conceptual review. Technological Forecasting and Social Change, 185, 122116. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.techfore.2022.122116
Karami, A., Shah, V., Vaezi, R., & Bansal, A. (2019). Twitter speaks: A case of national disaster situational awareness. Journal of Information Science, 46(3), 313–324. https://doi.org/10.1177/0165551519837183
Karami, A., Shah, V., Vaezi, R., & Bansal, A. (2020). Twitter speaks: A case of national disaster situational awareness. Journal of Information Science, 46(3), 313–324. https://doi.org/10.1177/0165551519828620
Kazmi, S. H. A., Ahmed, R. R., Soomro, K., Rahman, E. A. H., Akhtar, H., & Parmar, V. (2021). Role of augmented reality in changing consumer behavior and decision making: Case of Pakistan. Sustainability, 13(24), 14064. https://doi.org/10.3390/su132414064
Keyser, A. D., Köcher, S., Alkire, L., Verbeeck, C., & Kandampully, J. (2019). Frontline service technology infusion: Conceptual archetypes and future research directions. Journal of Service Management, 30(1), 156–183. https://doi.org/10.1108/JOSM-03-2018-0090
Kiran, A. H. (2011a). A philosophical framework for understanding technology. Philosophy & Technology, 24(3), 311–328. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13347-011-0021-0
Kiran, A. H. (2011b). Responsible design: A conceptual look at interdependent design–use dynamics. Philosophy & Technology, 25(2), 179–198. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13347-011-0017-1
Lebedeva, Y. A., Belozerova, Y., Zakharova, M. N., & Volkova, M. (2020). Methodological efficiency of using virtual and augmented reality in the educational process. E3S Web of Conferences, 210, 18077. https://doi.org/10.1051/e3sconf/202021018077
Lee, C., Yang, H., Wei, Y., & Hsu, W. K. (2021). Enabling blockchain-based SCM systems with a real-time event monitoring function for preemptive risk management. Applied Sciences, 11(11), 4811. https://doi.org/10.3390/app11114811
Lee, S. H. (2022). Digital experiences and AR/VR integration in live entertainment events. Event Management Journal, 26(1), 45–59.
Majid, M. A., Hussin, H., & Alias, R. A. (2020). Human-centered design in software development: A systematic literature review. Journal of Theoretical and Applied Information Technology, 98(14), 2795–2812.
Majid, R. A., Noor, N. L. M., & Adnan, W. A. W. (2020). Theoretical perspectives of the HCD integration in software development process. Indonesian Journal of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, 17(2), 1091–1097. https://doi.org/10.11591/ijeecs.v17.i2.pp1091-1097
McKinsey & Company. (2022a). The future of events: Digital transformation and beyond. https://www.mckinsey.com/business-functions/marketing-and-sales/our-insights/the-future-of-events
McKinsey & Company. (2022b). The future of events: Digital innovation and immersive experiences. https://www.mckinsey.com/future-events
Nguyen, T., & Thomas, R. (2022a). Digital innovation in event operations: A strategic imperative. Journal of Event Planning and Management, 18(2), 134–149.
Nguyen, T., & Thomas, R. (2022b). Strategic digital adoption in event management: Enhancing brand and operational excellence. Event Management Review, 19(1), 45–59.
Nosalska, K., & Mazurek, G. (2019). Marketing principles for industry 4.0—A conceptual framework. Engineering Management in Production and Services, 11(1), 9–20. https://doi.org/10.2478/emj-2019-0001
Nunnally, J. C. (1978). Psychometric theory (2nd ed.). McGraw-Hill.
Park, H., & Kim, S. (2021). Do augmented and virtual reality technologies increase consumers’ purchase intentions? The role of cognitive elaboration and shopping goals. Clothing and Textiles Research Journal, 41(2), 91–106. https://doi.org/10.1177/0887302X211005044
Pine, B., & Kim, S. (2020). Barriers to technology adoption in the events industry: A readiness perspective. Technology in Hospitality Journal, 8(4), 325–340.
Pine, J., & Kim, B. J. (2020). Technology readiness and the challenges of immersive event adoption. Journal of Virtual Events and Technologies, 10(3), 67–81.
Resca, A., Za, S., & Spagnoletti, P. (2013). Digital platforms as sources for organizational and strategic transformation: A case study of the Midblue Project. Journal of Theoretical and Applied Electronic Commerce Research, 8(2), 11–26. https://doi.org/10.4067/S0718-18762013000200003
Revilla, M. R. G., Moure, O. M., & Einsle, C. S. (2023). Advances in event management using new technologies and mobile applications. International Journal of Event and Festival Management, 14(1), 56–72. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJEFM-11-2021-0084
Ryu, H., & Lee, J. (2018). Understanding the role of technology in service innovation: Comparison of three theoretical perspectives. Information & Management, 55(3), 294–307. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.im.2017.08.003
Sahoo, T., Banwet, D., & Momaya, K. S. (2010). Developing a conceptual framework for strategic technology management using ISM and MICMAC methodology. Global Business Review, 12(1), 117–132. https://doi.org/10.1177/097215091001200107
Scholz, J., & Duffy, K. (2018). We are at home: How augmented reality reshapes mobile marketing and consumer–brand relationships. Journal of Retailing and Consumer Services, 44, 11–23. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jretconser.2018.05.004
Sihi, D. (2018). Home sweet virtual home: The use of virtual and augmented reality technologies in high-involvement purchase decisions. Journal of Research in Interactive Marketing, 12(4), 398–417. https://doi.org/10.1108/JRIM-01-2018-0012
Smith, A. (2021a). Generational differences in digital literacy and technology acceptance. Journal of Technology in Society, 14(1), 22–38.
Smith, A. (2021b). Understanding generational differences in technology adoption for events. Journal of Digital Communication and Innovation, 5(1), 35–48.
Sundar, S. S., Kang, J., & Oprean, D. (2020a). Being there in the midst of the story: How immersive journalism affects our perceptions and understanding of events. Journalism Studies, 21(10), 1358–1375. https://doi.org/10.1080/1461670X.2020.1780455
Sundar, S. S., Kang, J., & Oprean, D. (2020b). Multisensory learning with immersive technologies: Cognitive load and user experience. Educational Technology Research and Development, 68(5), 2657–2675.
WanderGlobe. (2024). How technology is transforming the event industry? https://www.wanderglobe.org/how-technology-is-transforming-the-event-industry

