Every year about this time a conference and exhibition is held called the ‘Online Bingo Summit’. This two day event examines many aspects of this recent rapidly growing phenomenon, and in order to gain an insight of what lies ahead this year we will look at some highlights from last year’s summit.

Last year the conference started by looking at some firm figures regarding market size and demographics, particularly with reference to geography. It then went on to examine TV advertising, SEO and affiliate activities to develop a cost benefit model of marketing strategies. Using Ireland as a specific study, less traditional marketing activities such as blogs and promotions such as fashion shows were examined. One focus of this was to target specific player profiles rather than just to maximise the total number of players.

The summit went on to provide a number of unique opportunities for networking between the attendees, with one to one introductions and other ice-breaking strategies.

This was followed by a special panel meeting of Chat Room moderators. This included discussions on the Chat Room Moderator’s role and how he or she might best create the right sort of chat environment. Another panel looked in depth at affiliate marketing models, including social networking.

Following these panel meetings the conference went on to look at the latest technologies behind online bingo. The emphasis of this was on user experience and brand building. Tips were provided on to how best select the bingo software platforms for specific business models.

Day 2 started by examining the business trends involving mergers and acquisitions, something that has underpinned much of the commercial development of online bingo over the last year. This was followed by a discussion of the ways in which providers could discover more about the habits of their customers and consequently use this information to optimise their customers’ experience. Following on from this in a similar vain there was discussion regarding payment strategies and developing customer loyalty.

The final afternoon was concerned mainly with legal aspects of online gaming and the possible effects of recent legislation.

This year the conference kicks off on June 16th and promises to be an insightful event.