By Elad Rosanski, CEO at Xtag.
It was February 22nd, 2024 where I found myself unable to use my phone without WiFi, as the signal displayed an “SOS” message. Despite attempting every solution I could think of—engaging flight mode, rebooting my iPhone—nothing resolved the issue.
As I drove to the office, relying on Google Maps’ offline version and enjoying music downloaded from Apple Music, a realization struck me: both Google Maps and Apple Music recognize the critical importance of an Offline Mode. This is a principle we consistently emphasize to our clients: never depend solely on an internet connection at event venues, especially not for crucial functions like check-in and badge printing. These are the first touchpoints of your event and must operate quickly and flawlessly.
This incident serves as a perfect reminder of how vital Offline Mode is. Yet, it’s equally important to understand its nuances and ensure you’re asking your vendors the right questions to confirm their offline capabilities are genuinely robust:
1. 𝐑𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐔𝐬𝐚𝐠𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐈𝐭𝐬 𝐈𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬
*𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐫𝐧: Often, a router is used to create a local network, connecting printers and tablets. However, this can be a critical point of failure. A single mishap, such as the router being accidentally unplugged, could disrupt the entire check-in and badge printing process.
*𝐒𝐨𝐥𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧: Ensure a direct connection between printers and tablets, bypassing the need for a router. This setup is not only faster but also more reliable.
2. 𝐇𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐒𝐥𝐨𝐰 𝐈𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐞𝐭 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬
*𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐫𝐧: Typically, software switches to Offline Mode only when the internet is completely unavailable. A slow connection, however, can result in a sluggish check-in and badge printing process, as the system continues to rely on the inadequate internet.
*𝐒𝐨𝐥𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧: Opt for software that operates locally for immediate tasks and uses the internet solely for syncing data, ensuring efficiency regardless of internet speed.
3. 𝐑𝐞𝐪𝐮𝐢𝐫𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐇𝐚𝐫𝐝𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐞 𝐈𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐞𝐭 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬
*𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐫𝐧: It’s common for vendors to require a hardline internet connection at the registration desk, which can be problematic. Firstly, it suggests a dependency on internet connectivity; secondly, venues often charge exorbitantly for this service.
*𝐒𝐨𝐥𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧: Inquire about the necessity of a hardline connection. Seek out solutions (anyone said Xtag?) that eliminate this requirement and help save on costs.
Claiming support for Offline Mode is one thing; providing a truly robust and reliable offline solution is another. By asking the right questions, you can ensure the success of your event’s crucial first impressions.
