Smart City Networks launched HOOPLA!, its digital signage network for convention centers and similar facilities, at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando.
The network debuted last February at the 2014 Grainger Show and the 2014 HIMSS Conference and Exhibition.
HOOPLA!, powered by Smart City Networks, presents content to thousands of convention attendees throughout the center. Its digital signage network consists of video screens and large-format displays in 13 high-traffic locations.
It is a digital communications tool and profit center for tradeshows that is completely independent of the telecommunications and technology services provided by Smart City in more than 35 convention centers nationwide.
“Our cutting-edge approach lets shows and exhibitors run social network feeds, photo booth posts, polling and contests on HOOPLA! – all in real time,” said Jennifer Stefano, manager of digital signage, HOOPLA!. “In other words, show managers and exhibitors are interacting directly with attendees, keeping them engaged on and off the showroom floor.”
Grainger is the leading broad line supplier of maintenance, repair and operating products serving businesses and institutions. This year’s convention attracted about 15,000 attendees. HIMSS is a global, cause-based, not-for-profit organization focused on better health through information technology (IT). HIMSS brought together more than 37,000 healthcare IT professionals, clinicians, executives and vendors from around the world.
Show management at the HIMSS conference used HOOPLA! to promote the event and sell time on the digital advertising network to exhibitors. HOOPLA!’s integrated, real-time components energize convention-goers’ experience by taking advantage of the social media networks attendees use every day.
The new HOOPLA! electronic signage at the convention center provided an excellent opportunity to advance conference messaging and branding in strategic locations, according to Karen Malone, vice president of marketing services, HIMSS.
“It also provided our exhibitors a chance to do a short advertorial in a sleek and vibrant way,” she added. “Selling the electronic banners to our exhibitors provided a great revenue stream for HIMSS. It was a win-win for everyone.”
HOOPLA!’s energy-efficient system of delivering updates and show information electronically is expected to help the Orange County Convention Center reduce the waste of static banners, paper fliers and other materials, contributing to its sustainability efforts.
