The United Nations is one of the few organizations that can claim to have global recognition, which is not a surprise, considering that most of the worlds’ countries are members. At its core, it represents humanity’s universal and earnest desire for peace.
The horrors of both the world wars and a common will to never have them repeat is what was behind the establishment of the United Nations. While peace is essential, the protection of the environment, fundamental human rights, and animal welfare are the bedrock of a just civilization. Therefore over the years, the UNs mandate has expanded enormously to cover these and many other issues. Naturally, it follows that to implement its policies, it has to have offices in every country. Thus, the UN network of offices is vast.
Each has its specific function. However, onmoote day is celebrated by all of them across the world, the 24th of October. This was the date when the UN Charter came into being. 2020 was a significant celebration; it marked the 75th inaugural anniversary of the UN.
Like their global counterparts the office based in Valencia, Spain, was keen to have a wonderful, celebratory day. However, after much consideration, they decided not to celebrate it in person but hold the event virtually. For an organization like the UN, having a virtual event must be planned carefully.
“I used the auditorium and the gallery to help recreate a space that would look like their Valencia offices, and created an exhibition space with 5 booths to present the work of the different branches (UNICEF, United Nations for women….). I think we managed to recreates a world that served its purpose and allowed to have an experience close to a real one” -Vincent Thebault, E-Lixir Events
Key concerns
- The IT systems have strict firewalls. So for downloads, they would have had to relax some of them, which is a significant security breach. Considering the sensitive nature of the information held on their systems, this would be reckless and dangerous for any NGO or not-for-profit organisation.
- There were going to be attendees from all around the world. The organisers at the UN were clear they wanted something that could create a warm, friendly atmosphere, engagement, and networking opportunities, and they were clear that they did not want a 2D platform.
- Given the nature of the audience, it was not guaranteed that all participants would have access to virtual reality equipment such as headsets.
Why MootUp helps
We understand the complexities that an NGO or not-for-profit organization must consider when deciding if there is a host platform that can cater to their requirements. That’s why we have the following features.
- MootUp does not require a download or any installation! In addition, it is an entirely in-browser platform. This makes it security friendly.
- The platform has been designed with engagement and networking in mind. For example, there is an opportunity to add gamification to your event. All participants can speak to each other just as they would in a real-life situation. There is no need for endless typing of messages via chat. This is a popular feature that many of our clients are pleased to have because it allows for relationship building and forming partnerships just as you would during an in-person event.
- MootUp does not require any VR equipment to be used! Of course, if you desire to use a headset, you can, but your attendees can enjoy full participation in the event even without that.
- Bonus! MootUp works with any OS and device. This means, your attendees can join the event using a mobile, laptop, tablet, etc.
“they loved it, they were supposed to spend an hour in the hall before the live session but instead spent the day, mingled, played with the space…they even asked if they could organise their Xmas party in the space” -Vincent Thebault, E-Lixir Events
To help them put on such an event, they got in touch with one of our partner agencies, E-lixir, a digital engagement agency covering Spain and the UK. The local office was delighted that our platform had solutions for their concerns, both of which are explained above. After the event, we sat down for an interview with Vincent Thebault of E-lixir Events. Here are some excerpts from that.
Please note any part of an answer that did not relate to MootUp, and/ or this specific event was not included.
MootUp: Why did you choose MootUp as the platform for your virtual event? What features made it most appealing to you and your clients?
E-lixir: MootUp (sic) has many advantages. First of all, it has a complete CMS allowing you to build an entire world in a practical and easy way, then the end product is very attractive, graphically speaking and very complete (any origin can be represented in avatars)
MootUp: What key lessons did you learn from organizing your virtual 3D events? What worked well and what would you do differently next time?
E-lixir: …. What worked well was the “setting” of the world, getting the users onboard and have them stroll around the exhibition area …..
MootUp: Can you tell me more about the event, its purpose, how you envisioned it to be, and what it was like to experience it virtually?
E-lixir: the event was to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the United Nations, they had thought about organising the event onsite, in Valencia Spain, but with Covid thought it was a good occasion to try out a virtual platform. I used the auditorium and the gallery to help recreate a space that would look like their Valencia offices, and created an exhibition space with 5 booths to present the work of the different branches (UNICEF, United Nations for women….). I think we managed to recreates a world that served its purpose and allowed to have an experience close to a real one
MootUp: What feedback did you receive from your clients? What did they have to say about the virtual world?
E-lixir: they loved it, they were supposed to spend an hour in the hall before the live session but instead spent the day, mingled, played with the space…they even asked if they could organise their Xmas party in the space
And so they did!
MootUp: MootUp is built with personalization and customizability in mind. What are some unique things you created inside the platform or things you were excited about?
E-lixir: we have created many things from the amstersam (sic) RAI exhibition hall to creating full convention hall with photocall, networking areas, etc…next on will be escape room. Mootup is our oyster.
As an NGO or not-for-profit organization, we hope that the feedback from the client above shows what a fantastic experience your next virtual or hybrid event could be by using MootUp.