The Common Threads Conference 2018

The Voluntary Sector Studies Network (VSSN) at Luther College, University of Regina made it their mission to expand access and increase attendance to their 3rd Annual Common Threads Conference by offering a digital, yet highly interactive, ticketed option for community members across the widespread northern and rural areas of the province. Their goal was for digital attendees to have a similar experience as in-person attendees and for both digital and in-person attendees to interact with each other.

VSSN integrated their online and offline audiences through the power of video. At the venue, VSSN set up a large screen monitor to broadcast the virtual Shindig audience. Respectively, they enabled an external camera offering the at-home audience a front-row view of the conference stage and a spanned view of the various roundtables. The combination allowed all attendees, both physical and digital, to participate and engage equally. Just as the in-person attendees brainstormed and discussed ideas with those sitting at their physical tables during the roundtable discussion sessions, those attending virtually, used Shindig’s small group collaboration to form their own “digital table” and discuss the topics at hand. Representatives from the physical location were brought to the conference stage to report what was discussed. Similarly, representatives of the digital groups were broadcasted on Shindig’s stage level to be heard by all and answer follow up questions.

Utilizing the Shindig platform advanced engagement features, VSSN was able to increase access to those unable to travel the far distance across the province to this year’s Common Threads Conference, saving time and money for attendees. Ultimately, VSSN was successfully able to broaden their agenda of creating an inclusive environment through education, discussion, and engagement…and now technology!