Events are the second-largest revenue source for mission-driven organizations, but event organizers are under pressure to evolve, move forward, and optimize events to exceed attendee expectations.
Event management can be complex, but it doesn’t have to be. Event management software makes it easy to optimize every step of the process, so your organization can deliver an unforgettable experience for your attendees.
These tools help your organization save time, streamline event registration, and make day-of operations straightforward. The right event management software will:
- Simplify registration, check-in, and badging
- Facilitate interactive experiences with mobile apps and networking features
- Track attendee data, sponsorship ROI, and event performance with real-time insights
- Empower administrators, speakers, and stakeholders to stay organized and manage their own content
- Integrate with other mission-critical systems
- Meet the specific needs of your organization
Compare top event management software platforms and request a demo with Momentive today.
How We Evaluated Event Platforms
Each platform was evaluated on core features, ease of use, integrations, scalability, pricing, support, and reviews.
Every organization has unique needs, and we believe the best decision is an informed one. This guide provides a transparent, side-by-side comparison of the top event management platforms in the industry, so you can confidently choose the software that powers your specific event strategy.
Best Event Management Software
Best Overall Event Management Software
Momentive Event Management Software
Overview
Momentive Event Management Software is a comprehensive solution designed to help nonprofits and associations manage every aspect of their events, from complex conferences to fundraising galas. By unifying registration, mobile apps, onsite check-in, and abstract management into one intuitive platform, it eliminates data silos and empowers your team to deliver seamless experiences. Built for mission-driven organizations, it ensures your event data integrates perfectly with your membership and fundraising goals.
Key Features
- Seamless Registration: Customizable forms and ticketing paths that handle complex attendee types and discount codes with ease.
- Mobile Event App: A branded, interactive app that keeps attendees connected with agendas, networking tools, and push notifications.
- Onsite Solutions: Fast, professional check-in kiosks and badge printing that eliminate long lines and start your event on a high note.
- Abstract Management: Tools to streamline the call for papers, grading, and session selection for educational conferences.
- Unified Reporting: Real-time analytics that provide deep insights into revenue, attendance, and session popularity.
Reviews
Users consistently rate Momentive highly for its user-friendly interface and the reliability of its onsite technology. Event planners appreciate the unified ecosystem, with registration, mobile apps, and onsite tech all handled by a singlevendor. Support is frequently cited as a major differentiator, with users valuing the responsive, expert guidance they receive.
Benefits
- Simplifies Logistics: Centralizes all aspects of event planning, reducing the need for multiple, disjointed tools.
- Enhances Engagement: Mobile tools and networking features keep attendees involved before, during, and after the event.
- Improves Data Quality: Seamless integration means your member and donor data are always up-to-date and actionable.
- Scales with You: Robust enough for a multi-day annual conference but intuitive enough for smaller regional workshops.
Pricing
Momentive Software offers customized pricing packages tailored to your organization’s size and needs. Request a demo to receive a tailored quote.
Why We Picked It
We recommend Momentive Event Management Software for associations and nonprofits that want a powerful, unified platform that bridges the gap between logistical excellence and member engagement.
Best for Scientific and Medical Associations
Cadmium
Overview
Cadmium focuses heavily on the educational aspect of events, treating the conference as a learning management opportunity. It excels at managing the complex data associated with academic conferences, such as poster sessions and continuing education credits, making it a strong option for medical and scientific associations.
Key Features
- Abstract Scorecards: Advanced tools for reviewing and grading submissions for academic presentations
- Poster Gallery: Digital and physical poster management for research-heavy events
- LMS Integration: Seamlessly turns conference content into on-demand learning modules
- Compliance Tracking: Robust tools for managing CME (Continuing Medical Education) credits and certificates.
Reviews
Cadmium is highly regarded in the medical association space for its specific focus on content delivery. Users appreciate the robust abstract management tools. However, some generalist planners find the platform complex if they do not require deep educational compliance features.
Benefits
- Centralizes Content: Acts as a single source of truth for speakers, abstracts, and educational materials
- Monetizes Education: Easily repurposes live event content for year-round revenue generation
- Streamlines CME: Automates the process of tracking and awarding educational credits
Pricing
Cadmium typically operates on a custom quote basis, often determined by the number of modules (Abstracts, LMS, EventScribe) required.
Why We Picked It
We recommend Cadmium for medical and scientific associations whose primary goal is the rigorous management and dissemination of academic research and continuing education.
Best for Attendee Networking and Engagement
Whova
Overview
Whova is an event management solution that takes a mobile-first approach, prioritizing attendee interaction and networking. While it offers registration and management tools, its fame comes from its app, which is designed to keep attendees talking, sharing photos, and interacting with the agenda. It is a popular choice for organizers who want to create buzz around their event without a massive budget.
Key Features
- Community Board: An active social feed where attendees can arrange meetups, share rides, and discuss topics
- Gamification: Built-in leaderboards and contests to encourage booth visits and session attendance
- Smart Profiles: Networking features that help attendees identify people with similar interests
- Agenda Personalization: Easy-to-use tools for attendees to build their own schedules on the fly
Reviews
Whova frequently wins awards for its mobile app interface. Attendees love the social aspects, and organizers appreciate the affordability. Some reviewers note that the backend registration features are less robust than those of its enterprise competitors, making it better suited for straightforward conferences rather than complex, multi-track conventions.
Benefits
- Boosts Interaction: Proven tools to help introverted attendees with networking and engaging
- Cost-Effective: Offers a high-value feature set at a price point accessible to smaller organizations
- Saves Time: The Agenda Center feature makes updating schedules and notifying attendees instant and easy
Pricing
Whova generally offers transparent, lower-cost pricing tiers compared to enterprise legacy systems, often based on the number of attendees.
Why We Picked It
We recommend Whova for events where the primary KPI is attendee satisfaction and networking, particularly for small-to-mid-sized conferences that need a top-tier app experience on a budget.
Sessionboard
Sessionboard
Overview
Sessionboard helps organizations manage their speakers and content. It is a specialized platform designed to tame the chaos of accepting submissions and speaker coordination. It replaces email threads and spreadsheets with a centralized portal, ensuring that bios, headshots, and presentation files are collected and organized efficiently.
Key Features
- Speaker Portal: A dedicated hub for speakers to upload materials and manage their tasks
- Drag-and-Drop Scheduler: Visual tools to build complex agendas without conflicts
- Abstract Management: Simplified workflows for grading and selecting session proposals
- Integrations: Designed to plug into other event apps and registration platforms
Reviews
Users rave about the time saved on speaker communication, and the visual agenda builder is frequently cited as a top feature. Because it is a specialized tool, some users note that it requires integration with a separate registration platform to function as a full event solution.
Benefits
- Reduces Admin Work: Automates the collection of headshots, bios, and slide decks
- Eliminates Errors: Ensures the most up-to-date speaker info is pushed to your website and app
- Improves Speaker Experience: Gives your VIPs a professional, organized interface to interact with
Pricing
Sessionboard offers tiered pricing based on the number of submissions and speakers managed.
Why We Picked It
We recommend Sessionboard for content-heavy conferences that struggle with the logistical nightmare of managing hundreds of speakers and abstracts.
Best for Enterprise Corporate Events
Cvent
Overview
Cvent is the heavyweight of the industry, offering an expansive suite of tools for virtually every aspect of event management. It is designed for large-scale enterprise operations that require deep customization, venue sourcing, and hotel block management. It is a powerful event management platform capable of handling the most complex global user conferences.
Key Features
- Venue Sourcing: A massive marketplace for finding and booking event spaces and hotels
- Strategic Meetings Management: Tools to oversee spend and compliance across a global portfolio of events
- Onsite Tech: Proprietary badge printing and lead capture hardware
- Deep Customization: Highly configurable registration paths for complex attendee logic
Reviews
Cvent is widely acknowledged as the market leader in terms of feature depth. Users respect its power but often cite a steep learning curve and a high price tag. It is frequently described as “robust but complex,” requiring a dedicated administrator to manage effectively.
Benefits
- Handles Complexity: Can manage intricate housing blocks and travel requests that other platforms cannot
- Global Scale: Built to support events with tens of thousands of attendees across multiple continents
- Comprehensive: Covers the entire lifecycle from finding the hotel to analyzing the post-event survey
Pricing
Cvent operates on a custom quote model and is generally considered a premium, higher-cost investment suitable for enterprise budgets.
Why We Picked It
We recommend Cvent for large corporations and massive trade associations that have complex housing/travel needs and the budget to support an enterprise-grade ecosystem.
Best for Hybrid and Virtual Events
PheedLoop
Overview
PheedLoop is known for its affordability and versatility. It gained significant traction during the pandemic for its virtual capabilities and has successfully pivoted to supporting hybrid and onsite experiences. It allows organizations to manage registration, live streaming, and onsite badges from a single, budget-friendly dashboard.
Key Features
- Native Streaming: Built-in broadcasting tools for virtual and hybrid sessions
- Virtual Trade Show: Interactive 3D expo halls for digital sponsors
- Onsite Technology: Self-check-in kiosks and badge printing that integrate with the virtual platform
- Gamification: Points and prizes that work for both in-person and remote attendees
Reviews
Reviewers love PheedLoop’s value proposition, often noting that it offers enterprise features at a fraction of the cost. The system is praised for its rapid update cycle and modern interface. Some users feel that the sheer number of features can sometimes make the backend navigation feel cluttered.
Benefits
- True Hybrid: Designed from the ground up to treat virtual and in-person attendees equally
- Cost-Effective: A strong all-in-one option for organizations with tighter budgets
- Automated: Features like “Smart-Sight” enable automation for exhibitor and speaker tasks
Pricing
PheedLoop offers transparent, module-based pricing, making it easier for smaller organizations to calculate costs upfront.
Why We Picked It
We recommend PheedLoop for organizations that need a reliable, cost-effective bridge between physical and digital audiences without paying for two separate platforms.
Best for Highly Customizable Tech Experiences
Stova
Overview
Stova helps organizations deliver high-touch, immersive experiences. It positions itself as a partner for premium events, offering white-glove service and highly customizable technology. It is often the choice for brands that need their event tech to look and feel exactly like their own proprietary software.
Key Features
- Deep Branding: Registration and app interfaces that can be fully custom-coded to match brand guidelines
- Concierge Service: High-level project management and onsite support teams
- Advanced Networking: AI-driven matchmaking and appointment setting for hosted buyer programs
- Onsite Hardware: Proprietary check-in and lead retrieval solutions
Reviews
Users appreciate Stova’s unlimited customization capabilities. It is often praised for its stability during high-stakes corporate meetings. However, reviews note that this level of customization requires a longer lead time and a higher budget than out-of-the-box solutions.
Benefits
- Unique Experiences: Allows you to break out of “cookie-cutter” templates
- High Support: Ideal for teams that want a vendor to act as an extension of their staff
- Data Security: Enterprise-grade security protocols suitable for finance and healthcare sectors
Pricing
Stova is a premium solution with custom pricing based on the scope of development and service required.
Why We Picked It
We recommend Stova for premium corporate events and large associations that need a bespoke, white-labeled technology experience and have the budget to support it.
The Future of Event Management Software
The future of events is just as strong as the foundation. By focusing intensely on member value and making strategic adjustments to delivery and format, organizations can successfully meet member needs, ensure financial sustainability, and ultimately secure enduring member loyalty and growth.
Event management software helps organizations level up their events, while simplifying planning and execution. From helping your team do more to creating an unforgettable experience for all attendees, event management software levels up your event and positions your organization for sustained success.
Find out how Momentive Event Management can work for your organization Request a demo today.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best event management software? Â
There is no single “best” tool for every organization; the right choice depends on the complexity of your events. For most nonprofits and associations seeking a comprehensive, all-in-one ecosystem, Momentive Event Management is a top choice because it unifies registration, mobile apps, and onsite badging on a single platform. However, medical associations often prefer Cadmium for its specific focus on continuing education credits, while massive corporate enterprises typically choose Cvent for its global venue sourcing capabilities.Â
How much does event management software typically cost? Â
Pricing models vary widely but generally fall into three categories:Â
Entry-Level: Simple ticketing tools (like Eventbrite or basic Whova plans) often charge per-ticket fees (e.g., 2-3% + $0.99) or low flat rates, but they lack advanced logic or onsite hardware.Â
Professional: Comprehensive platforms (such as Momentive or PheedLoop) typically offer annual subscriptions or per-event pricing ranging from $3,000 to $15,000+. These plans usually include mobile apps, abstract management, and integrations.Â
Enterprise: Large-scale solutions (like Cvent or Stova) often require custom quoting that can exceed $50,000, scaling based on custom development, hardware requirements, and global support needs. Tip: Always ask if the pricing includes “credit card processing fees” and “onsite hardware rentals,” as these can significantly impact your final budget.Â
What features should I look for? Â
To maximize your ROI and attendee satisfaction, look for features that streamline the attendee journey:Â Â
– Complex Registration Logic: The ability to handle different pricing for members, non-members, speakers, and students automatically.Â
– Mobile Event App: Essential for engagement; look for interactive maps, push notifications, and networking tools.Â
– Onsite Badging: Fast, kiosk-based printing to eliminate long lines at check-in.Â
– Abstract Management: Critical for associations; automates the collection and grading of speaker proposals.Â
– Real-Time Analytics: The ability to track session attendance and revenue instantly to make day-of decisions.Â
Is event management software worth it for smaller events? Â
Yes. While spreadsheets work for a simple RSVP list, they become a liability when money, dietary restrictions, and name badges are involved. Dedicated software pays for itself by automating payment collection, eliminating check-in bottlenecks, and providing a professional attendee experience that reflects well on your brand. Furthermore, the data gathered helps you secure better sponsorships for future events.Â
How does event management software compare to general ticketing tools?Â
– vs. Spreadsheets: Spreadsheets are static. They cannot collect payments securely, print badges, or allow attendees to build their own agendas. Software automates these logistics.Â
– vs. General Ticketing (e.g., Eventbrite): While good for selling a simple ticket, general tools often lack association-specific nuances like “Abstract Management,” “CE Credit Tracking,” or deep integrations with your AMS/CRM.Â
The Verdict: Specialized event management software offers the best of both worlds: the ease of a ticketing platform combined with the robust operational tools needed to run a professional conference.Â
