F-U-N is great R-O-I

Simple fun can be one of the best ways to reach an audience

If there’s one thing that can bring together people of different generations, demographics, work styles, and attention spans, it’s having a good time.  

It’s human nature to want to enjoy yourself at a large group gathering. In our experience, the activations that help people connect with their inner playfulness are some of the most popular and most memorable. Forcing random, seemingly meaningless games into a program won’t connect your audience to the experience, but a little strategically planned fun can go a long way to increase engagement with key audiences.  

Here’s a look at some of the most popular—and effective—uses of fun we’re seeing so far this year.  

Blast from the past 

Nostalgia is one of marketing’s favorite emotions because it engages people quickly, with little set-up required. From full-on throwback vibes to small standalone moments, we’re seeing a lot of retro décor and old-school activations mixed with modern design bring smiles to attendees’ faces by bringing them back to simpler times. 

Take Google I/O’s set for the past two years. This year’s beige tile and retro wood paneling was reminiscent of a 1980s school, creating a fun and retro learning environment for the event’s largely Millenial and Gen X audience. It was the perfect backdrop for a dynamic opener featuring mix artist Loop Daddy demoing MusicFX, Google’s new AI text to music generator.  

Power of AI-play 

Even better than just having a good time is having something to show for it. And in our picture-first, social media culture a picture is worth more than a thousand words.  

But gone are the days of a simple professional headshot. AI is taking the traditional photo booth to the next level with digital avatars, creative backgrounds, and even holograms.   

But AI’s potential for a little interactive fun goes beyond cool images. AI-generated music, scavenger hunts, and personalized mood boards are just a few examples. An activation from LG at InfoComm also recently featured AI artwork that populated a kinetic LED wall, mesmerizing audiences and creating an interesting talking point at the event.  

Game on 

Key messages aren’t just for keynotes. Games can give important topics vital energy, increasing audience engagement and boosting their retention. Not only are people more likely to engage, they are also more likely to remember the content—with a positive association. 

Our team recently  created a game show format for a client’s event that engaged crowds with fun games and nostalgic prizes, all while getting the event’s key messages in a dynamic way.  

“We have lights, music, a great set and host, while the audience is clapping, cheering, and shouting out answers at the top of their lungs,” said Joe Case, the creative director and brains behind the activation. “The whole place gets so amped, you’d never suspect that it’s a room full of employees yelling along to their CEO’s talking points—but that’s exactly what’s happening. Fun for the audience and impactful for the business. What more could you want?” 

While it may seem obvious, don’t underestimate the power of fun. It’s a proven method for engaging audiences, creating memorable experiences, and fusing creativity with key brand messaging.  

To get up to date on all the latest brand experience trends, download the report here.  

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