Cvent Overview
Cvent is used for event marketing and management with email invitations, summary website, registration, attendee check-in and reporting functionality.
Cvent is available for Development-related events only and is the approved platform to collect event-related monies. Cvent requests are contingent upon approval from a Development Officer.
Access to the system is granted through the UF Advancement Digital Communications team upon the successful completion of three required webinars. Please contact Martha Jakab, digital applications manager, to begin this process.
If you are planning a free event, please contact Martha to discuss alternative avenues to promote and manage as Cvent is fee-based.
Toolkit Contents
Timeline
Consider Cvent set up as a precursor to your event that also requires planning and consideration. The recommended timeline from the day you request event management to event launch is at least 10 weekdays. Some events require additional time, especially those spanning multiple days and/or sessions.
Please keep in mind that there is a testing and approval phase for all Cvent requests through UF Advancement Digital Communications.
Cvent requests are handled through Quickbase, a project management system. With just a few steps, you’re project proposal will be in queue:
- Access the project proposal form – www.uff.ufl.edu/commproject
- Complete the project proposal form
- Add one or more Cvent marketing requests
- Complete the request details:
- Event date
- Registration launch date
- Expected attendance
- Fund name, number and administrator
- Your request will be reviewed, approved and assigned within 1-2 days.
Timeline example:
Day(s) | Task(s) |
---|---|
10 | Event submitted to Quickbase project queue, www.uff.ufl.edu/commproject, for review by Digital Communications |
9 - 8 | Project approved and assigned to Martha by Digital Communications; notification email sent to sponsor with “ready to launch” link |
7 - 5 | Sponsor builds building summary page, event emails and registration form |
4 - 3 | Sponsor tests all aspects of their Cvent project; if there are issues with functionality and/or errors, contact Cvent support |
2 - 1 | Sponsor clicks “ready to launch” link in previously mentioned notification email; Martha receives confirmation, tests functionality of Cvent project and sends to Digital Communications leadership for final approval |
0 | Cvent project is launched and sponsor is notified via a Quickbase email |
Best Practices
Registrations depend on how clear, concise and straightforward your event description and event page are presented. Consider who will be attending and what information is critical for their decision. In addition to the basics of date, time, location and cost, consider including details like parking information, dress code, hotel accommodations and a map of campus.
The most common events include:
- Reunions
- Tailgates
- Fundraising
- Career Fairs
Email Functionality
You can set up all of your event-related communications via Cvent. This includes save-the-date notifications, registration open alerts, confirmation of registration and any follow-up messaging. Individual lists of up to 50K records can be uploaded. If your list is larger than, simply segment for multiple sends.
Themes & Templates
Your event management tool is an extension of your event and likewise of the UF brand. Cvent offers several pre-built themes that ensure both style (colors and font) and functionality. There are six UF-specific templates that include more comprehensive fields for enhanced branding and event management.
Looking for inspiration or seeking a more comprehensive visual solution? Browse through Cvent’s Visual Showcase.
Cvent Training
Cvent account access is contingent upon the completion of three training modules. Contact Martha Jakab, digital applications manager, to begin this process. Cvent has a variety of additional resources that are recommended for more enhanced use of its features.
Required for account access per the UF Advancement Digital Communications:
Recommended courses for users:
- Event Promotion – email campaign functionality
- Advanced Registrations
- Using Testing Scenarios
Troubleshooting
Cvent offers extensive documentation, particularly in the Knowledge Base section of the website. Please search first for your question/topic as documentation provided is the most timely and accurate.
For example, if you’re looking to test credit card numbers, there is an article exclusively dedicated to which numbers to use for each major provider.
Frequently accessed troubleshooting articles:
- Creating an Event
- Using Event Templates
- Using Testing Scenarios
- Printing Name Badges
- Data Tag Cheat Sheet
- Graphics Cheat Sheet for Flex Events
- Flex Image Options
Videos guides on specific topics:
- How do I add order details?
- How I copy Gift Processing to registrations?
- How do I link back to the summary page from the email invitation?
- How do I configure the email opt-out to remain CAN-SPAM compliant with event-related communications?
- How do I print an invoice?
Project Sponsor Resources:
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