Project Short: Tech Event Tactic
Here’s an idea that never made it outside of the pitch room—the timing was a bit too tight, so other options with proven production timelines took priority. Regardless, I’m happy to share it (with the client’s branding omitted) as a look into my process and workflow.
This idea was part of a pitch to a client in the Tech Industry—a startup accelerator and venture capital firm that has launched some of the world’s most innovative companies. They were hosting an event that would bring together a large group of college students pursuing careers in the tech startup industry: mostly specialists in computer science and machine learning.
This portion of the ask was to create some irresistible tech-enabled engagements within the event.
A simple game, with a dash of complexity
Inspired by fan contests at major basketball games where players “sink a full-court golf putt, win a prize”—this activation is just as easy to understand but geared for our advanced-level audience.
Background/Insight: Our client provides a program of business acceleration and mentorship to a very select few, and gaining a coveted interview is the first step.
The contest: The event space was a massive industrial warehouse with a clerestory roof down the center—there was no avoiding an idea of this scale!
Make a half-court shot with the robot arm and win a guaranteed interview position with the admittance board.
How it works.
- Contestants use a mobile device loaded with the robotic arm control code.
- They can take their shot with the default code or alter a few variables such as distance, angle, rotation, and release timing.
- Winning shots earn a coveted interview spot with the company.
Why it works.
Creates a large-scale spectacle within the event, a can’t-miss opportunity that forms a lasting (and shareable) memory with the brand.
Process and Workflow
Why show an idea that never made it into production? What’s interesting is how it fits into a concept deck workflow. Using a scrappy combination of Gen AI and Photoshop comping gives control over a layout with enough visual appeal for proof-of-concept that can be done in tandem with writing the deck. Further, generating mock-up code for the game control adds just enough believability to share with a Creative Technologist and work on pricing and timing.
While I would prefer working with a talented team, sometimes resources and timing allow only for just enough to do an idea justice and quickly move on.