NBG Annual Conference 2024 – Registration and App Development

Client Background

NBG (National Buying Group) is a leading buying group for independent merchants. Their annual conference, themed “Maximise Sales,” is held in Glasgow at the Scottish Event Campus, bringing together hundreds of delegates for exclusive deals, new product showcases and networking opportunities in the builders’ merchant industry.

Project Objectives

• Streamlined Stand Booking: Create an efficient online system for exhibitors to book stands, ensuring no double bookings.
• Comprehensive Registration: Develop a registration system that handles complex attendee requirements and generates accurate invoices.
• Integrated Event App: Build an event app to enhance the conference experience with features like exhibitor listings, agenda, maps, and networking tools.

Customised Solutions and Features Developed

1. Stand Booking System:
   • We implemented a sophisticated online stand booking system where exhibitors could select and reserve stands in real-time.
   • To prevent double bookings, we incorporated a validation feature that locks a stand once it is booked, ensuring no other exhibitor can select it.
2. Shopping Cart System:
   • A new shopping cart feature was introduced allowing users to purchase multiple tickets and stands in a single transaction.
   • This system streamlined the purchasing process and improved user experience by eliminating the need for multiple transactions.
3. Enhanced Invoicing System:
   • We developed a comprehensive invoicing system capable of handling multiple purchases in one invoice, clearly listing all items.
   • The system also supported generating additional invoices or credit notes for any changes made post-registration, ensuring accurate financial tracking.
4. Email and Ticket Management:
   • The registration system was designed to ensure all attendees receive accurate and timely email notifications.
   • Primary registrants could easily add additional attendees, who would then receive emails to complete their registration details.
5. Event App Integration:
   • The next phase involved integrating the registration data into an event app. This app features:
     • Exhibitor Listings: Including logos and stand locations.
     • Agenda and Speakers: Detailed conference agenda and speaker information.
     • Interactive Maps: Helping attendees navigate the event space and locate exhibitors.
     • Networking Tools: Enabling attendees to message and schedule meetings with each other.