When it comes to conference registration, a simple check-in process is key to helping attendees get in the door faster. Your goal should always be to make the process smooth, enjoyable, and user-friendly as possible.
However, just as the check-in process can set the stage for an amazing event, it can also get your event off to a rocky start if done poorly. For instance, while using pen and paper may seem like a cost-effective option, this method can quickly become overwhelming.
Written methods (and even spreadsheets) are difficult to share with others, hard to consolidate, and vulnerable to loss or damage. They also don’t lend themselves well to tracking and reporting data analytics.
Instead, try using an event registration app or conference app for a digital approach to guest check-in. Read on to find a curated list of the best online registration software options that also feature guest check-in capabilities, including free options, paid options, brandable options, and everything in between.
Because there are countless options within the event technology market, it can be difficult to know which check-in software tool is best for you. We rounded up a list of some of the best options for you to consider based on your needs and budget. You’re bound to find a great event planning software from this list!
Attendium’s guest list app is perfect for quickly searching for and checking in event guests by name, list, or custom field. Use your smartphone, tablet, or computer to sign in attendees and their plus-ones, then export lists of guests that did or didn't attend your event.
The Certain Platform is a check-in software tool that helps event organizers manage all aspects of their event from registration to check-in, engagement, data capture, follow-up, conversion, etc.
Host smarter events with CrowdPass.co, an attendee data and tracking app powered by near-field communication (NFC) and radio frequency identification (RFID) technology embedded in event wearables. Event hosts can use this data to increase attendee engagement and optimize future events.
With a sleek platform and state-of-the-art check-in capabilities, CrowdPass has everything you need to optimize attendee registration, check-ins, access control, NFC and RFID integration, lead retrieval, and data analytics. Attendees can use a browser or the app to sign up, purchase tickets, and register for events in under 30 seconds.
Cvent OnArrival’s event registration software, check-in, and badging solutions are designed to help event managers digitize the physical footprint of their events. The tool accommodates on-site check-in, on-demand badge printing, attendance tracking, real-time reporting, and even attendee payments.
Eventbrite Organizer app gives you instant access to all the information you need for a great event registration process. Easily oversee your event, monitor real-time ticket sales, check in attendees with a scan, track attendance, and accept secure payment for tickets and on-site merchandise.
Eventdex offers tools to help your team simplify ticketing and registration. Register, cancel, modify, and process refunds for attendees with ease. You can also easily set up and implement registrations for walk-in attendees and collect payment on site.
Event Farm’s check-in app is a great all-in-one solution for event planners. Automatically sync Event Farm registration data to the app or upload a registrant list. Engage attendees with a welcome text message, add walk-ins on the spot, and “swipe” to check in.
Expo Pass specializes in uncomplicated, low-touch attendee check-in for meetings and events. This software accommodates on-site registrations, offers customizable kiosk screens, and works with or without event badges.
Put away your printed spreadsheets! The Guest Manager event check-in app is affordable and easy to use for event professionals of all skill levels. Not only is this app fast, but it’s also built to set everything up yourself in minutes. Check in guests 75% faster, use the software on as many devices as you’d like, and export lists of attendees filled with rich data like notes, tags, and more.
If you need an easy event check-in app and guest list manager, RSVPify is a good option. This app helps you handle event check-in for guests from any mobile device, tablet, or desktop computer. Just scan a custom event QR code or enter the guest’s name or confirmation number.
Sched offers a guest check-in app with their Plus and Premium Plus plans. This software helps you track who attends each session and whether they reserved a seat ahead of time. Use this data after your event to understand attrition rates and inform better decisions on session sizes and the number of speakers for future events.
Webex Events offers a tool to help simplify your check-in and badge printing process. Event organizers can choose between an on-demand or distributed check-in experience for attendees. Then, let attendees verify their badge details.
Zkipster is a great guest list app for contactless event check-in for iOS and Android. Registration teams can find and register guests in seconds, keep lines moving, and even check in guests and their plus-ones at the same time. This app continues working, even if Wi-Fi connectivity drops. Plus, you can generate special QR codes that seamlessly connect from online invitations.
Some events have bigger budgets than others. We understand that it’s not always realistic for event planners to pay for event apps, especially when money is tight or when hosting small gatherings. Instead, try using a free event registration app to expedite the sign-up and check-in processes.
Eventleaf is a user-friendly app that lets you check in attendees by scanning their badge, selecting them from a list, or searching for them by name using a smart device. This is especially useful for monitoring breakout session attendance at conferences.
Google Forms is a great option for events that require a low-tech event registration or check-in option. As a free guest list app, this site allows you to create an online registration form so people can sign up for your event anytime, anywhere. Add custom fields for attendee names, titles, and contact information, or keep things simple with a couple-question sign-in form when they arrive.
With OneTap, you can make event check-ins up to 10x faster. Its simple interface makes it easy to create an event list, add people (or import using Excel), and check in using any iOS device. A time tracking feature also lets you auto-track check-in and check-out time, view visit durations, and download reports on how long people stay on average.
The Splash Host app is a free event registration software that gives your on-site team the power to check guests in with a simple swipe or scan, register walk-ins, and print event badges on demand. You can also optimize your resources with “Kiosk Mode,” enabling event-goers to securely check in and self-register.
If you want to get your attendees through the line and in the door faster, then Zoho Backstage is a great option! This app is powerful, yet easy to use. Use it for contactless check-in, QR code scanning, and badging solutions—all from your mobile device. This is a good option for event professionals in need of a drag-and-drop website builder, real-time event analytics, and more.
What many event planners don’t realize is that the event registration process is at the heart of any meeting. After all, it’s the first step attendees take once they’ve decided to attend your event.
It’s the first “warm welcome” people get when they step foot in your venue. Simply put, the registration experience is the perfect opportunity to serve as a friendly face, build credibility and — most importantly — get people excited before they’ve even set foot in the expo hall.
Want to get attendees excited about the check-in process? It’s easier than you may think. Find tips and tricks in the following articles by pc/nametag: