SXSW – the annual festival celebrating the latest in technology, business, music and film – is quickly approaching. As one of the premiere events in the US, South By presents a tremendous opportunity for companies to showcase their latest products or services and build their brand. But with thousands of exhibitors and companies competing for attention, it can be difficult to stand out. One of the most effective ways to capitalize on your South By experience and build your brand is by hosting a live production at SXSW.
What is SXSW?
Direct from the SXSW site: “Featuring a variety of tracks that allow attendees to explore what’s next in the worlds of film, culture, music, and technology, SXSW proves that the most unexpected discoveries happen when diverse topics and people come together.”
SXSW is unique in that it doesn’t cover one specific industry, like most conferences. It spans multiple industries and sectors, drawing a wide range of attendees from different backgrounds. Held each March in Austin, TX, SXSW has something for everyone – from music, film and comedy festivals to networks events and industry panels.
Who is SXSW Ideal For?
SXSW offers a broad range of events, activities and panels, but the festival has deep roots in media, technology, music and film. SXSW may be of interest to tech companies who produce physical products or services, or media companies, bloggers, reporters, filmmakers and musicians. SXSW presents brands with an opportunity to showcase their latest products, services, art or creative endeavors.
How Can My Brand Benefit from a Live Production at SXSW?
Because SXSW has such a broad reach, your brand is constantly competing for attention – not only with potential competitors, but with non-competitive brands from completely different industries. Producing live content from SXSW is a great way to generate buzz and help your brand stand out among the noise. Here’s how a live production can help build your brand and enhance your investment:
Exposure beyond Austin: In 2019, SXSW drew over 400,000 attendees! That’s a huge number, but why limit your audience to 400,000 people? While many people wish to attend SXSW, not everyone can. Hosting your own live production opens you up to a much larger audience. Streaming your SXSW content live to the web gives your brand exposure to anyone with an internet connection, allowing you to amplify your investment and broaden your reach. And because SXSW is such a recognizable event, hosting live content directly from Austin is a great way to capture attention – people who can’t make it to the festival still want to know, and see, what’s happening.
Cross-promotion from non-competing brands: The great thing about SXSW is that you have access to high-profile talent, guests and celebrities who are attending the festival. If you’re hosting a live production at SXSW, invite other influencers to appear as guests on your program and ask them to promote their appearance using their own social media channels. This draws a new audience – and additional viewers – to your live content.
Engagement with fans and consumers: In addition to the myriad of celebrities, musicians and keynote speakers, there are thousands of individuals attending SXSW. Each of these individuals are potential viewers of your live content, thus giving them exposure to your brand. Draw a live audience locally in Austin by teasing a high-profile guest or offering a giveaway. And the engagement opportunities don’t stop with your live audience. Give online viewers a chance to engage with your content as well by allowing them to submit questions, participate in polls or answer trivia questions.
Celebrate technology: There’s no better way to pay homage to this tech-focused festival than by utilizing one of the most technical content delivery methods: live production. While your SXSW live programming doesn’t have to be overly complex (unless you want it to be), there are plenty of tools to make it interesting, engaging and impactful.
As a seminal US festival, SXSW presents brands with a unique opportunity to reach a wide range of influencers and attendees covering a multitude of industries. But your SXSW investment doesn’t have to be limited to those attending the festival in Austin. Producing your own multi-camera live stream from SXSW is a great way to build your brand, reach additional viewers and generate excitement about your latest products, services or film release. Click here to read more about our SXSW service offerings.
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