4 Apps and Sites That'll Boost Slumping Events

April 28, 2015 | 8:00 am ET Tania Anderson

Apps have already made it easier to hail a cab and deposit a check. So it's no surprise people are working on tech solutions for events that'll bring more revenue and change the experience for attendees.

1. ORI and EventRebel

ORI and EventRebels recently joined forces to get better analytics on event attendees. EventRebels collects input through post-event surveys on mobile phones. ORI analyzes the answers and provides feedback to the association.

ORI president Kathy Benson (left) says not only are trade associations trying to attract as many attendees as possible, but they’re also trying to entice exhibitors. ORI provides analytics on why it’s a good return on investment for exhibitors. EventRebels CEO KC Hopson (right) says the product and service can be used for different types of events, from webinars and summits to large conferences and trade shows.

2. SpeakerRate.com

SpeakerRate.com, developed by DC-based Viget Labs, is an online database of event speakers who are rated by attendees. Viget founder Brian Williams said he was frustrated by the process of finding interesting speakers, whether by word of mouth or professional speaker bureaus. The database has speaker bios, along with comments and ratings from people who’ve heard them speak. Event organizers can search a directory of experts on particular topics and can then ask event attendees to rate speakers at the end of the event. The free database has over 32,000 speakers.

3. SocialRadar

Chances are, walking into an industry event this crowded, you’ll know a few people. SocialRadar is a mobile app that lets you know who from your social network is around you. The app pulls real-time info from LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter and other social networks. (Great for those moments when you know a face but can’t remember a name.) The app is free and requires both parties to have it.

4. Nvite

Nvite is an event ticketing and registration platform that allows planners to offer an online event sign-up. It also allows hosts to manage guests as they arrive, and an embedded communication tool allows planners to email guests with news and updates. Attendees can also get to know each other before the event by connecting on social media. Nvite has processed millions of registrations for events from SXSW to White House functions.