Event badges serve many purposes: They promote introductions and networking opportunities, and even provide a creative way to showcase your branding. Events that use the full potential of event badges offer a more seamless attendee experience while enhancing connection and engagement throughout the event.

The following guide covers the different types of event badges and explains how to use event badges and on-site event badge printing to level up the event experience.

What is an event badge?

Process of checking in on a conference congress forum event, registration desk table, visitors and attendees receiving a name badge and entrance wristband bracelet and register the electronic ticket

An event badge is a small identification card or tag—sometimes physical, other times digital— that is issued to attendees at events, conferences, trade shows, and gatherings. At their core, event badges serve as a means of identification, providing essential information about the attendee, such as their name, affiliation, job title, and company.

Beyond ID, event badges offer various tools that contribute to an event’s success: They provide security capabilities, serve as potential keepsakes, and promote branding elements, among other attributes which we’ll cover below in more detail.

Types of event badges: digital vs. physical

Process of checking in on a conference congress forum event, registration desk table, visitors and attendees receiving a name badge and entrance wristband bracelet and register the electronic ticket

Event badges come in two main forms: digital and physical. Each type of badge comes with its own advantages and disadvantages.

Physical event badges

Physical event badges are often made of plastic, laminated paper, or fabric and primarily serve as a form of ID for event attendees.

Physical badges can foster a sense of excitement and even serve as memorabilia well after the event finishes. And particularly when connected to a lanyard, physical badges can make breaking the ice a little bit easier due to their visibility.

However, physical badges can sometimes be less convenient compared to their digital counterparts. Physical badges require printing and distribution efforts, which can be time-consuming and add to the event’s logistical challenges. Attendees may also run the risk of misplacing or damaging their physical badges during the event.

Digital event badges

Digital event badges are virtual or electronic versions of identification cards issued to event attendees. They’re often accessible through mobile apps, event management platforms, or email.

Digital badges are easily accessible, eco-friendly, and easy to integrate into the event experience. Particularly through the use of event badge software, digital badges require minimal effort on the part of event organizers.

Like physical badges, they’re highly customizable to match the feel and theme of the event. They also commonly draw on innovative technological solutions such as RFID/NFC Technology, which enables attendees to access the event venue, check in to sessions, and participate in interactive activities with a tap of a button.

Checking in on a conference congress forum event, registration desk table, visitors and attendees receiving a name badge and entrance wristband bracelet and register electronic ticket

A potential downside to digital badges is that some attendees may not be familiar with or comfortable using digital technology, which could lead to challenges with adoption and usage. Additionally, internet connectivity issues or problems with the event app/platform can hinder attendees’ ability to access their digital badges when needed.

The choice between digital and physical badges ultimately depends on the event’s specific needs and goals. Some event organizers may prioritize eco-friendliness and scalability through digital badges, whereas other events may prefer the networking capabilities of physical badges. Either way, both event badge types enhance the overall attendee experience.

Seamless badge printing experience with Webex Events

At Webex Events, we offer both digital and physical badges that offer the following features and capabilities:

  • Custom branding: Webex Event’s badges are highly customizable, allowing event organizers to easily add event branding and promote sponsors. 
  • CLEAR Health Pass partnership: This feature helps to ensure the safety of all event attendees. The CLEAR Health Pass offers a streamlined way to manage an event’s health and vaccine protocols.
  • Intuitive event check-in: Attendees can check in and verify their badges on-demand, speeding the check-in process.
  • Data collection: Through real-time data, event organizers can know where and when attendees are checking in, those who are yet to check in, and more relevant information.
  • Badge printing:  Webex Events also provides rental badge printing hardware, allowing event organizers to easily print physical badges on-site.

Regardless if you prefer digital or physical badges, let Webex Events provide seamless check-in and badge printing services at your next in-person event. Visit our event badge page to learn more.