So comfortable with Certain platform!
What do you like best?
Certain was the first platform I learned, and it feels so comfortable. They often make improvements to help make the registration process flow better. I like the drag and drop features, customization of form sections, flexibility in building robust websites. My team has creatively used websites, forms, and sessions to meet our unique client needs. Jeff Yarnell is so knowledgeable when providing platform use and development support, always willing to dig deeper and give clear answers. Certain has easy and robust reporting, which is a struggle at times in other platforms. I also like its housing module - especially rooming list change reports! The Touchpoint app has been a welcome addition.
What do you dislike?
At times, the level 1 support can give answers that are not helpful or that obviously need escalation. As an experienced user, I wish we had access to higher level support in a quicker timeframe. We have not found many clients who have utilized the On24 virtual platform, so I am not confident in its success. The website builder has potential to be even greater, and I would like to see some improvements that can create sites more like you'd see in WordPress. It would be great to have a learning management type option, we often have to create these and they don't often work smoothly, but there could be more ease in building something like that.
Recommendations to others considering the product:
Take into account everything you will need from start to finish - from the first marketing email that gets sent to the post-event survey after the event. Platforms range in their capabilities, and only you as the meeting planner/event technologist will know what you can skimp on and what you require. Certain has a lot of strong points, but don't be afraid to customize your platforms and tools to build your toolkit and can be flexible with your needs.
What problems are you solving with the product? What benefits have you realized?
My clients benefit the most from the accommodations module and reporting. Roommate matching is a successful experience for them. Some come back to us regularly because of the reporting ability. The Touchpoint app is a useful extension of the platform. Setting up and managing financial processes are understandable and straightforward.
