Event technology can do more than just function - it can surprise and evoke emotions. Christian Künzli, CEO of Winkler Livecom and technology partner of JED Events from the very beginning, shows how technology creates memorable experiences. In this interview, he talks about what makes the close collaboration with JED Events so special, how sustainable technologies are finding their way into event technology and which innovations have the potential to change the industry in the long term. Find out how Künzli overcomes technical challenges, why the JED building with its industrial atmosphere is perfect for creative productions and how Winkler Livecom is redefining event technology as an experience.

Christian, how would you describe to a layperson what is so fascinating about event technology? What excites you personally about it?

Event technology is the magic behind the scenes - it ensures that a concert, conference or show is truly impressive and unforgettable. For someone who doesn't work in the field, I could describe it like this: Event technology combines technology and creativity. You use light, sound and image to create a certain mood or tell a story. It's like transforming an empty stage into another world that captivates and engages the audience.

Personally, I love how every event is unique and always presents new challenges. No two events are the same - you constantly have to be flexible and creative, solve problems and make sure everything runs smoothly. This mix of technical precision and the opportunity to turn creative ideas into reality is what makes the job so exciting.

What does the perfect interplay between technology and location mean to you?

For me, the perfect interplay between technology and location means that everyone involved - location, technology partner and client - benefit equally and work together harmoniously. Our threefold WIN-WIN-WIN approach pursues precisely this goal: all parties should experience the event as a positive, smooth experience.

For example, we have stored a small range of equipment directly at our partner locations so that important technology is already on site and can be used easily. In addition, we provide a personal contact person for each location who takes care of the technical support and acts as a link. However, as in any good partnership, the most important thing is open communication and an understanding of each other's needs - this is how we create an interplay that inspires and ensures a successful event.

Winkler Livecom has been a technology partner of the JED from the very beginning. What makes this partnership special for you?

For me, the partnership with the JED is special because it has grown under exceptional conditions right from the start. The JED opened in the middle of the coronavirus pandemic - a challenging time for the location, but also for us as a technology partner. During this phase in particular, we developed creative solutions together and launched campaigns to position and publicize the JED as a hybrid location. This collaboration created a special bond and a strong relationship of trust that continues to this day. It is a close and very pleasant partnership that gives us a lot of pleasure and always opens up new opportunities.

What were the biggest challenges you overcame at events at JED and how did you solve them?

One of the biggest challenges was the difficult start during the coronavirus pandemic. Both JED and we as Winkler had to contend with lower capacity utilization than originally expected. This dry spell was a major challenge for both sides, as events and orders initially failed to materialize.

However, we overcame this situation together by reacting flexibly to the circumstances and developing adaptable solutions. Thanks to our close communication and collaboration, we were able to ensure that we could continue to realize valuable events during this time. Today, we are closer than ever and benefit from the strength we have gained together through this difficult time.

Is there a project at JED that is particularly close to your heart because it was a technical challenge or a creative highlight?

The Xaver Award 2023 and 2024 was particularly close to my heart because, as President of the Swiss Livecom Association, it is the central project that inspires and brings our industry together. Together with JED, we were proud to be able to implement this beacon project for the industry.

The atmosphere at JED is special - how do you ensure that the technology is harmoniously integrated into the backdrop of the former printing plant?

The atmosphere at JED is really unique, and that's not just down to the impressive architecture of the former printing works. It's a lot of fun to technically equip such a special location, as we can work here with a great sense of space and many historical elements.

To ensure that the technology is harmoniously integrated into this extraordinary environment, we rely on tailor-made solutions that emphasize the special atmosphere of the building. Because we have all the necessary resources and experience, we manage to use the technology in such a way that it is not only functional, but also helps to maintain and enhance the special atmosphere. Every day, we do our best to preserve the unique atmosphere at JED and make every event an unforgettable experience.

If you imagine what will be possible in event technology in the next few years - what would that mean for events at the JED?

The event industry is constantly evolving, especially in the area of LED walls, where new technologies such as curved or transparent LED walls will be coming our way. The JED is technically at a very high level and at the same time kept simple. It is currently equipped with state-of-the-art technology, which provides an excellent basis for easily integrating new developments and technologies in the coming years.

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Is there a technology that you have introduced at JED events that is now considered the standard?

Yes, at JED Events we have introduced the control of all event technology via iPads, which has proven to be extremely efficient and flexible. This technology allows us to control lighting, sound and projections in real time from anywhere in the room. Today, this type of iPad-controlled technology is considered the standard for modern event locations.

Sustainability is a big issue. How do you at Winkler Livecom ensure that technology also becomes more sustainable?

Winkler Livecom is ISO-certified for 2021 and is gradually trying to achieve the highest possible standard in the area of sustainability. JED also benefits from our commitment in all areas of sustainability.

Many people talk about green technology - what does this mean in concrete terms in event technology and how do you implement it?

Green technology in event technology means that sustainable methods and technologies are used in a targeted manner to minimize the ecological footprint of events and reduce the environmental impact. One example of this is the use of LED technology, which significantly reduces electricity consumption.

What do you enjoy most about technical planning - the creative challenge or the moment when everything runs smoothly?

I think everyone in the event industry experiences the same thing. The moment when everything comes together. When people come into the hall, the lighting, the sound and everything is ready and everything runs smoothly. These are not only multi-sensory moments for the visitors, but also for me. And I don't think I'm going too far out on a limb when I say that everyone in the event industry feels the same way.

And finally: If you had to describe the event technology of an event at JED as a musical composition - what kind of music would come out of it?

If I had to describe the event technology of an event at JED as a musical composition, I would describe it as a mixture of ambient and downtempo electronic music. This style of music combines exactly the characteristics that I also perceive in event technology: it is high-quality, as every sound is clear and precise, which reflects the high quality standards. Nevertheless, the technology is restrained and respectful of the historical character of the room and at the same time creates a modern, high-quality atmosphere that guests can sense without explicitly noticing it.

Event technology can do more than just function - it can surprise and evoke emotions. Christian Künzli, CEO of Winkler Livecom and technology partner of JED Events from the very beginning, shows how technology creates memorable experiences. In this interview, he talks about what makes the close collaboration with JED Events so special, how sustainable technologies are finding their way into event technology and which innovations have the potential to change the industry in the long term. Find out how Künzli overcomes technical challenges, why the JED building with its industrial atmosphere is perfect for creative productions and how Winkler Livecom is redefining event technology as an experience.

Christian, how would you describe to a layperson what is so fascinating about event technology? What excites you personally about it?

Event technology is the magic behind the scenes - it ensures that a concert, conference or show is truly impressive and unforgettable. For someone who doesn't work in the field, I could describe it like this: Event technology combines technology and creativity. You use light, sound and image to create a certain mood or tell a story. It's like transforming an empty stage into another world that captivates and engages the audience.

Personally, I love how every event is unique and always presents new challenges. No two events are the same - you constantly have to be flexible and creative, solve problems and make sure everything runs smoothly. This mix of technical precision and the opportunity to turn creative ideas into reality is what makes the job so exciting.

What does the perfect interplay between technology and location mean to you?

For me, the perfect interplay between technology and location means that everyone involved - location, technology partner and client - benefit equally and work together harmoniously. Our threefold WIN-WIN-WIN approach pursues precisely this goal: all parties should experience the event as a positive, smooth experience.

For example, we have stored a small range of equipment directly at our partner locations so that important technology is already on site and can be used easily. In addition, we provide a personal contact person for each location who takes care of the technical support and acts as a link. However, as in any good partnership, the most important thing is open communication and an understanding of each other's needs - this is how we create an interplay that inspires and ensures a successful event.

Winkler Livecom has been a technology partner of the JED from the very beginning. What makes this partnership special for you?

For me, the partnership with the JED is special because it has grown under exceptional conditions right from the start. The JED opened in the middle of the coronavirus pandemic - a challenging time for the location, but also for us as a technology partner. During this phase in particular, we developed creative solutions together and launched campaigns to position and publicize the JED as a hybrid location. This collaboration created a special bond and a strong relationship of trust that continues to this day. It is a close and very pleasant partnership that gives us a lot of pleasure and always opens up new opportunities.

What were the biggest challenges you overcame at events at JED and how did you solve them?

One of the biggest challenges was the difficult start during the coronavirus pandemic. Both JED and we as Winkler had to contend with lower capacity utilization than originally expected. This dry spell was a major challenge for both sides, as events and orders initially failed to materialize.

However, we overcame this situation together by reacting flexibly to the circumstances and developing adaptable solutions. Thanks to our close communication and collaboration, we were able to ensure that we could continue to realize valuable events during this time. Today, we are closer than ever and benefit from the strength we have gained together through this difficult time.

Is there a project at JED that is particularly close to your heart because it was a technical challenge or a creative highlight?

The Xaver Award 2023 and 2024 was particularly close to my heart because, as President of the Swiss Livecom Association, it is the central project that inspires and brings our industry together. Together with JED, we were proud to be able to implement this beacon project for the industry.

The atmosphere at JED is special - how do you ensure that the technology is harmoniously integrated into the backdrop of the former printing plant?

The atmosphere at JED is really unique, and that's not just down to the impressive architecture of the former printing works. It's a lot of fun to technically equip such a special location, as we can work here with a great sense of space and many historical elements.

To ensure that the technology is harmoniously integrated into this extraordinary environment, we rely on tailor-made solutions that emphasize the special atmosphere of the building. Because we have all the necessary resources and experience, we manage to use the technology in such a way that it is not only functional, but also helps to maintain and enhance the special atmosphere. Every day, we do our best to preserve the unique atmosphere at JED and make every event an unforgettable experience.

If you imagine what will be possible in event technology in the next few years - what would that mean for events at the JED?

The event industry is constantly evolving, especially in the area of LED walls, where new technologies such as curved or transparent LED walls will be coming our way. The JED is technically at a very high level and at the same time kept simple. It is currently equipped with state-of-the-art technology, which provides an excellent basis for easily integrating new developments and technologies in the coming years.

[nbsp

Is there a technology that you have introduced at JED events that is now considered the standard?

Yes, at JED Events we have introduced the control of all event technology via iPads, which has proven to be extremely efficient and flexible. This technology allows us to control lighting, sound and projections in real time from anywhere in the room. Today, this type of iPad-controlled technology is considered the standard for modern event locations.

Sustainability is a big issue. How do you at Winkler Livecom ensure that technology also becomes more sustainable?

Winkler Livecom is ISO-certified for 2021 and is gradually trying to achieve the highest possible standard in the area of sustainability. JED also benefits from our commitment in all areas of sustainability.

Many people talk about green technology - what does this mean in concrete terms in event technology and how do you implement it?

Green technology in event technology means that sustainable methods and technologies are used in a targeted manner to minimize the ecological footprint of events and reduce the environmental impact. One example of this is the use of LED technology, which significantly reduces electricity consumption.

What do you enjoy most about technical planning - the creative challenge or the moment when everything runs smoothly?

I think everyone in the event industry experiences the same thing. The moment when everything comes together. When people come into the hall, the lighting, the sound and everything is ready and everything runs smoothly. These are not only multi-sensory moments for the visitors, but also for me. And I don't think I'm going too far out on a limb when I say that everyone in the event industry feels the same way.

And finally: If you had to describe the event technology of an event at JED as a musical composition - what kind of music would come out of it?

If I had to describe the event technology of an event at JED as a musical composition, I would describe it as a mixture of ambient and downtempo electronic music. This style of music combines exactly the characteristics that I also perceive in event technology: it is high-quality, as every sound is clear and precise, which reflects the high quality standards. Nevertheless, the technology is restrained and respectful of the historical character of the room and at the same time creates a modern, high-quality atmosphere that guests can sense without explicitly noticing it.