The Challenge/Problem

The Situation

The MariaDB Database Innovation Summit 2021 had to pivot to an entirely virtual format due to the pandemic.
The event required a branded, scalable microsite to support multiple live video sessions while keeping attendees informed and engaged.

The Problem

How to design a user-friendly interface for a live, multi-session virtual event?
How to ensure the branding remained consistent across the microsite, presentations, and video elements?
How to optimize the site for performance and responsiveness across devices?

‍The Need‍

A visually engaging and responsive interface to simplify navigation for users across devices.
Dynamic content management to handle real-time changes to schedules and speakers.

Pain Points

Uncertainty in Virtual Events – Attendees struggled to keep track of live sessions across multiple tracks.
Low Engagement in Digital Experiences – Traditional virtual platforms lacked interactivity and brand consistency, risking audience drop-off.
Complex Content Updates – Making real-time schedule changes was often manual and error-prone.

The Objective

Goal

Create a visually cohesive microsite aligned with MariaDB’s branding.
Optimize the site for performance, responsiveness, and scalability.
Provide a seamless live video interface for navigating multiple conference sessions and schedules.
Enhance engagement by making live updates and relevant content easily accessible.

The Solution

Key Features

Branded microsite featuring speakers, agenda, and event information.
Interactive video interface with live updates for multi-session streams.
Optimized design system for scalability and consistent branding.

Why it works

The microsite served as a central hub for attendees, allowing seamless navigation across live sessions.
Real-time updates provided clarity and engagement during the virtual experience.
Branding reinforced trust and credibility, aligning with MariaDB’s identity.

The Results

Quantifiable Metrics

Increased Attendance: The highest virtual attendance compared to previous online events.

Quantifiable Results

Positive Feedback: Praised for ease of use and design consistency.
Scalable Design: Reused as a framework for future virtual events.

Before vs. After

Pandemic-Driven Virtual Solution

Addressed the COVID-19 challenge by building a scalable, virtual platform aligned with the shift to multi-cloud and remote workflows, supporting global attendance during uncertain times.

Increased Attendance

Achieved higher engagement and participation rates compared to past in-person events.

Scalable Design System

Delivered a reusable framework adaptable for future virtual conferences, reducing setup time and resources.

Real-Time Interaction Tools

Created dynamic schedules and live video integration to improve usability and keep users informed during multi-session events.

Positive Stakeholder Feedback

Received praise for branding consistency, ease of navigation, and modern design, aligning with MariaDB’s identity.

Performance Optimization

Reduced load times with compressed assets, responsive layouts, and fast-loading video players to enhance user experience.

‍

Reflection

What Worked

Leveraging design systems to streamline production under tight deadlines.
Balancing branding consistency with interactive, user-friendly features.

Challenges Overcome

Solved technical issues for video streaming and live updates.
Adapted to last-minute schedule changes while maintaining the site’s performance.

Key Takeaways

Virtual events demand flexibility and strong visual communication to keep audiences engaged and informed.

Case study

Maria DB