Association event planning can get complicated, but iMIS helps keep everything running smoothly from start to finish.
Combining the energy of in-person experiences with the convenience of virtual access, hybrid events help associations connect with more members, increase engagement, and deliver greater value. Despite their many benefits, hybrid events also come with added complexity—more moving parts means more chances for things to go off track. That’s where a powerful engagement management system (EMS) like iMIS makes all the difference. Designed for associations and nonprofits, iMIS helps organizations seamlessly manage the full event lifecycle while supporting the hybrid model every step of the way. So, how can it make association event planning more organized, engaging, and successful? Let’s explore the value hybrid events offer membership organizations like yours, and six specific ways iMIS EMS can help you plan smarter, simplify logistics, and create meaningful attendee experiences.
Why Hybrid Events Matter for Associations
The 2025 Membership Performance Benchmark Report by iMIS revealed that events and meetings were the #1 strategy for recruiting new members. But today’s audiences expect more than a lecture and a handout— they’re looking for flexibility, personalization, and experiences that feel relevant and accessible, whether they attend in person or virtually. Hybrid events offer that and more:
- Broader reach: Those limited by distance, time, or travel costs can still participate and stay connected.
- Increased accessibility: Accommodates varying schedules, locations, and learning preferences.
- Better participation: With the right tools, interactive experiences can be created across both formats.
- Stronger member value: Offers multiple ways to engage with your content, community, and cause.
When thoughtfully planned and executed, hybrid events not only boost participation, they also build deeper, longer-lasting member relationships.
6 Ways iMIS Supports Hybrid Event Success
Whether you’re hosting a small webinar or a huge national conference, iMIS provides the tools you need to plan, execute, and evaluate your event from one integrated platform. Here’s how:
- Streamlined registrations for all
iMIS simplifies registration by offering tailored workflows for virtual and in-person attendees. Members can register with just a few clicks, using auto-filled data from their member profile. You can also offer tiered pricing, optional add-ons, and custom session selections, all while keeping the user experience simple and intuitive. Integrated payment processing ensures a smooth checkout, and your staff saves time with fewer manual steps and reduced errors.
- Comprehensive tailored communication
Clear, timely communication is one of the most important elements of successful hybrid events. iMIS enables automated, segmented messaging that keeps everyone informed, regardless of how they’re participating. For instance, virtual attendees might receive links and tech tips, while in-person guests could get maps and check-in instructions. Automated reminders and confirmations improve participation rates, while post-event messages keep the engagement going.
- Personalized event agendas
Just because an event has a hybrid format, that doesn’t mean it’s one-size-fits-all. iMIS allows for personalized content and session tracks tailored to different audiences, job functions, or interest areas. That makes it easy for attendees to build a schedule that aligns with their goals, while giving you deep insights into what content is resonating most.
- Engagement tools for both formats
iMIS integrates with popular virtual platforms and mobile apps, supporting everything from live Q&A and chat features to polling, breakout sessions, and badge scanning. This creates a unified experience for attendees, whether they’re joining from home or networking in person.
- Built-in CTA tools to boost registrations
Event marketing efforts only work if people engage—and that starts with a strong call-to-action (CTA). iMIS supports branded landing pages and email templates with built-in CTA features that encourage registration and participation. Whether it’s a bold “Register Now” button or early bird discount alert, iMIS makes it easy to test, track, and refine your CTAs for maximum impact.
- Keep the momentum going
When it’s all said and done, you want to know how successful your event was and how to improve on it for the future. iMIS makes it easy to track what matters, such as registrations, attendance, session participation, and feedback from both all participants. Built-in dashboards help you capture real-time insights, compare virtual and in-person experiences, and identify what worked best. Afterward, you can send targeted follow-ups, share recordings or resources, and invite attendees to future programs, extending your impact well beyond the last session.
From registration to follow-up, iMIS helps associations and nonprofits simplify event planning, boost engagement, and grow their impact, no matter how people attend. With the right tools, it’s easier to create experiences that go smoothly, feel personal, and leave a positive impression.
Ready to take your association event planning and execution to the next level? Let Intuitive Business Concepts help you unlock the full potential of iMIS. Contact us to schedule your free consultation and start planning smarter, more engaging events.
About IBC: At IBC, we have a deep understanding of the critical business needs and processes specific to associations, non-profits, and unions. We ‘get’ your culture, your goals, and what drives you, too. Focused exclusively on and dedicated to delivering the most effective AMS, LMS, and Cloud Financial Software for our clients, we’re well-versed in identifying and applying the integration techniques that will save you time and money. Since 2001, our cutting-edge products, unparalleled responsiveness, and award-winning services have helped organizations like yours increase their operational and financial performance by leveraging best practices and proven solutions. For more information about IBC, please visit the website at www.ibconcepts.com or call 443.603.0215.
