Futian Shangri-La, Shenzhen: prepared to host virtual trade shows, virtual summits and virtual product launches
ASIA PACIFIC - Hotels and resorts are positioning their video conferencing facilities as ideal avenues to aid online meetings in light of the worldwide curb on travel.
Futian Shangri-La, Shenzhen, which claims to house the largest meeting spaces in the Futian CBD in Shenzhen, has had a track record of hosting a number of conferences and events for pharmaceutical and training companies, where technologies such as video and live streaming broadcasts were used.
The hotel expects to have more video conferencing events in 2020 as a result of COVID-19 health measures that are in place in many countries. There are already enquiries from various business sectors requiring remote conferencing facilities such as these.
"With the dedicated events planning team, multi-functional spaces with advanced equipment, and supporting partners with cutting-edge technologies", said Mr Sinan Yilmaz, GM of Futian Shangri-La, Shenzhen, "we are ready to host video conferences that connect multiple locations and events that reach audiences from all over the globe.
"For instance, we are prepared to help with virtual trade shows, virtual summits, virtual product launches and many more that our clients request."
The professional team at Futian Shangri-La, Shenzhen will assist event organisers with virtual inspection, scheduling, invitations, equipment testing, setting up spaces and on-site management to post-event video productions.
The digital journey starts from 360 VR photos and videos, which allow meeting organisers to conduct virtual site inspections, and tours of meeting space ranging from 36 to 1,742 sqm in size, without the need for in-person visits.
Cloud-based solutions offer instant video and photo sharing during the event, and also enable organisers to record and store content after the event.
The in-house LED screens that can be customised to fit dimensions from 4 to 80 sqm, 4K video conferencing and speedy wireless Internet connection provide on-site visual and audio clarity, keeping the online presence without any buffering hold ups, it claims.
The hotel says that the experience is also "hassle-free for attendees as it is just a click away with laptops, tablets and mobile devices that operate with both iOS and Android systems. No downloads, registrations or complicated dial-in numbers are required to join video conferences or live streaming events."
Novotel Singapore on Stevens: newly opened
In Singapore, the newly-built Novotel Singapore on Stevens and Mercure Singapore on Stevens have brand new video conference facilities such as high-resolution overhead projectors, TV screens, digital flip charts and Polycom phones. A dedicated WiFi is allocated for the 10 function rooms to ensure exclusive high-speed Internet for smooth video calls.
Its GM/ VP Operations, Accor Singapore (Midscale & Economy Brands), Mr Kevin Bossino, said: "Organising a virtual meeting is a productive way to communicate, whilst reducing the number of people gathered in a confined space.
"Lunch and tea breaks are served in function spaces, instead of restaurants. All food items can also be individually portioned and served upon request to avoid communal sharing."
Video conferencing is one of the meeting options being offered at Mandarin Oriental Singapore. It works with external vendors specialising in video conferencing setup.
"We are looking to work with our external vendors to incorporate more advanced video conferencing technology, for instance assisting our clients to host a live presentation via a YouTube link, or embedding the video link on their website etc," said Ms Wang Lirong, director of Sales and Business Development.
In Australia, Shangri‐La Hotel, The Marina, Cairns, has a dedicated Events Centre with a private entrance separate from the hotel and general public.
Presenters can instantly interact with their audience through event polls and Q&A App facilities and conclude with their entire experience having been recorded.
The resort is constantly looking at how it can break down the physical barriers to bring people together around the world. More event organisers are enquiring about conducting virtual meetings and it has responded by offering them various options to meet their needs.