Chronicle Editor
Jacqueline Ntaka
THE Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) is making a commendable leap forward by embracing digitalisation. This move signifies a commitment to growth and reflects the understanding that technology is the key to unlocking a world of opportunity. By incorporating digital elements, the ZITF is poised to enhance the trade fair experience for exhibitors and visitors alike.
But, more needs to be done to fully unlock the rewards that are brought by technology. A robust digital platform would allow the ZITF to transcend geographical limitations. Imagine international businesses and attendees participating virtually, showcasing products and fostering connections that transcend physical borders. This expanded reach fosters a global marketplace, attracting a wider audience and creating new trade partnerships.
Digital tools can create interactive experiences that go beyond static displays. Imagine visitors taking virtual tours of exhibition stands in 360°, allowing them to explore products and company information at their own pace. Live product demonstrations can be streamed online or through mobile apps, reaching a wider audience and showcasing functionalities in a dynamic way. This fosters deeper engagement with products and services, leading to more meaningful interactions between exhibitors and potential customers.
By capturing digital data on visitor traffic, preferences, and interactions with virtual booths, ZITF organisers can gain valuable insights. This allows them to tailor future events to better meet the needs of exhibitors and visitors. For example, data might reveal which product categories received the most virtual traffic, informing the layout and focus of the physical exhibition space.
ZITF should go full throttle in its digitalisation. There are many examples of international trade fairs that have leveraged technology to achieve remarkable success. The Hannover Messe in Germany is a leading industrial technology fair that uses a robust online platform that allows companies to showcase products, connect with potential buyers and schedule meetings year-round. This extends the reach of the fair and fosters continuous business opportunities.
The CeBIT in Germany is an IT and digital business trade fair that has embraced virtual reality (VR) to create immersive experiences. Visitors can use VR headsets to explore product demonstrations and interact with exhibitors in a simulated environment, enhancing product understanding and engagement.
The Dubai Expo 2020 in the UAE was a mega-event that employed a sophisticated app that provided visitors with personalised recommendations, real-time navigation and information on exhibitors and events. This streamlined the visitor experience and maximised the value of their time at the expo.
The news that ZITF wants to achieve digital transformation is a positive step towards a more connected and successful future. By embracing technology, the ZITF can position itself as a leading trade platform in Africa, attracting a wider audience and fostering international trade partnerships that contribute to Zimbabwe’s economic growth.
l Jacqueline Ntaka is the CEO of Mviyo Technologies, a local tech company that provides custom software development, mobile applications and data analytics solutions. She can be contacted on [email protected].
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