Summary

Agency: MediaMonks

Client & Project: Palo Alto Networks - Online Event Platform

Palo Alto hosts one of the world's largest cybersecurity events, attracting top industry experts who gather to discuss trending topics, share knowledge, and conduct business. I served as the lead producer for this online event, which drew over 35,000 visitors from around the globe. Attendees had the opportunity to hear from prominent speakers such as Condoleezza Rice, Marques Brownlee, and Malala Yousafzai, among others.

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What was the challenge and how we tackled it

The entire world faced the same challenge when the COVID crisis hit unexpectedly, but business had to continue, and we needed to ensure that business events would not come to a halt. With physical meetings no longer an option, Palo Alto had to find an alternative for their main yearly event: Ignite. They turned to MediaMonks to set up their online platform. The platform was flexible and developed with multiple bespoke features for this event, allowing visitors to enjoy:

1. Different levels of access
2. Live chat Q&A sessions during the presentations
3. Fully customizable agendas
4. Multiple stages with different topics and presenters
5. Virtual coffee tables for networking
6. Sponsor booths where customers and business representatives could meet one-on-one

Ignite 2020 redefined what a trade event could be by creating a personal experience for each visitor. It was more than just a virtual substitute for an in-person conference; it demonstrated how digital events can break down geographical barriers, enhance value, and capitalize on global opportunities.

The event drew over 48,000 attendees from Palo Alto Networks' customer base, partners, and prospects, offering 67 diverse sessions including keynotes, training, and breakout discussions. Covering three time zones, Ignite also included 37 sponsored booths and nine Palo Alto Network booths.

Participants enjoyed the comprehensive program, hosted by James Corden and featuring notable speakers like Condoleezza Rice, through an intuitive yet sophisticated platform. The results were impressive.

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What I did

1. Main point of contact for all external and internal stakeholders.

2. Business Lead decision maker for the product roadmap.

3. Safeguard the budget and timeline.

4. Oversee the input of data in the CMS for Speakers and Sponsors.

5. Coordination with film and postproduction 3rd party.

6. Coordination with the event organising team.

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The outcome

The event saw a remarkable attendance of 35,000 people, which is a substantial increase of 230% compared to Ignite 2019.

Participants from 170 different countries joined the event, highlighting its global reach and appeal.

Of the total registered individuals, 73% actively participated in the event.

Additionally, 60% of the attendees reported a positive shift in their perception of the brand following the event.