Let’s Be Clear: Video Apps Are Not Event Platforms

Video conferencing tools like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and Google Meet have their place. They’re great for meetings, catch-ups, and maybe even a sales call. But let’s not pretend they’re made for events—because they’re not.

And don’t get us started on “hybrid” and “virtual” events.

We don’t believe in them.

Here’s why:

• Speakers bring attendees
• Attendees bring networking
• Networking brings value
• Value brings repeat customers

And none of that happens through a screen.

It only happens in the room—where the energy is real, the connections are face-to-face, and the brand experience sticks.

So while we’ll compare the best-known video conferencing platforms below, keep in mind: these are utilities, not event strategies.

If you're serious about running events that convert, retain, and grow community—then the future isn’t hybrid. It’s human.

Zoom: The Meeting Workhorse

Zoom continues to be a dominant player in the video conferencing space, known for its user-friendly interface and robust features.

Pros

• User-Friendly Interface: Easy to navigate, making it accessible for users of all technical levels.
• High-Quality Video and Audio: Consistent performance even with large audiences.
• Webinar and Large Meeting Support: Capable of hosting up to 1,000 participants.
• Extensive Integration Options: Supports over 1,000 third-party apps.

Cons

• Limited Customization: Less flexibility in branding and event customization.
• Separate Tools for Event Management: Requires additional platforms for registration, ticketing, and analytics.

Use Cases

• Webinars and Large Meetings: Ideal for straightforward virtual events.
• Educational Sessions: Widely used in academic settings.
• Corporate Meetings: Suitable for internal and external business communications.

Pricing

• Free Plan: 40-minute limit on group meetings.
• Pro Plan: $14.99/month per user.
• Business Plan: $19.99/month per user.
• Enterprise Plan: Custom pricing.

Microsoft Teams: The Corporate Collaborator

Microsoft Teams has become a comprehensive collaboration tool, especially for organizations already using Microsoft 365.

Pros

• Seamless Microsoft 365 Integration: Direct access to Word, Excel, and PowerPoint within the platform.
• Robust Security Features: Enterprise-grade security and compliance standards.
• Persistent Chat and Channels: Organized communication threads for ongoing collaboration.

Cons

• Complex Interface: May have a steeper learning curve for new users.
• Limited External Collaboration: Less intuitive for guests outside the organization.

Use Cases

• Internal Team Collaboration: Ideal for daily communication and project management.
• Integrated Meetings: Combines meetings with document sharing and editing.

Pricing

• Free Plan: Limited features.
• Microsoft 365 Business Basic: $6/month per user.
• Microsoft 365 Business Standard: $12.50/month per user.
• Microsoft 365 Business Premium: $22/month per user.

Google Meet: The Simplicity Specialist

Google Meet offers a straightforward video conferencing solution, particularly beneficial for users within the Google Workspace ecosystem.

Pros

• Easy Access: Join meetings directly from calendar invites or email links.
• Real-Time Collaboration: Simultaneous editing in Google Docs, Sheets, and Slides during meetings.
• No Additional Software: Runs entirely in the browser.

Cons

• Limited Advanced Features: Fewer options for event customization and management.
• Participant Limits: Maximum of 250 participants in standard plans.

Use Cases

• Team Meetings: Quick setup for internal discussions.
• Educational Purposes: Used in schools and universities for virtual classes.

Pricing

• Google Workspace Individual: $9.99/month.
• Google Workspace Business Starter: $6/month per user.
• Google Workspace Business Standard: $12/month per user.
• Google Workspace Business Plus: $18/month per user.

Presso: The Progressive Event App

Presso is not a video conferencing tool. It's a Progressive Web App (PWA) designed specifically for in-person events.

Why Presso Isn't a Video Platform

Presso isn't about virtual meetings or hybrid events. It's about enhancing the in-person experience without the need for app downloads or complex setups.

Features

• Instant Access: Attendees access the app via a simple link—no downloads required.
• Real-Time Updates: Live schedule updates, speaker bios, and session information.
• Networking Tools: Facilitates real connections through chat and meeting scheduling.
• Sponsor Visibility: Dedicated spaces for sponsors to engage with attendees.

Pricing

• Flat Rate: £1 per attendee.

Enhancing Sponsor ROI with Event Apps

Modern event apps like Presso offer unique opportunities to maximize sponsor return on investment (ROI):

• Dedicated Sponsor Spaces: Virtual booths and branded areas increase visibility.
• Interactive Engagement: Polls, Q&A sessions, and giveaways foster direct interaction.
• Detailed Analytics: Track attendee engagement and provide sponsors with actionable insights.
• Lead Generation: Capture attendee information for follow-up and nurturing.

By leveraging these features, sponsors can achieve greater exposure and measurable results, enhancing their overall satisfaction and likelihood of future participation.

Conclusion

While video conferencing tools have their place in meetings and remote collaboration, they fall short when it comes to delivering the energy, networking, and value of in-person events.

Presso's Progressive Event App enhances the live event experience, providing attendees and sponsors with seamless access to schedules, networking opportunities, and real-time updates—all without the need for downloads or complex setups.

If you're ready to elevate your in-person events and provide real value to your attendees and sponsors, book a demo with Presso today.