With the disastrous Willy’s Chocolate Experience making headlines for not living up to expectations, we explore whether using AI imaging to advertise your events is actually worth it.
The use of artificial intelligence (AI) has become increasingly prevalent throughout our everyday lives including advertising. Brands such as Volkswagen are using AI created adverts to advertise their products, to mixed opinions from consumers. For event professionals, AI imaging technologies offer enticing possibilities for event organisers seeking innovative ways to promote their event. However, beneath the surface of this seemingly promising tool lie several inherent pitfalls and ethical concerns that warrant careful consideration. While AI imaging may initially appear as a convenient solution for event promotion, its utilisation can ultimately be an anti-climax.
The recent headline-making Willy’s Chocolate Experience which took place in Glasgow has brought this issue to public view at the moment, even sparking a Channel 5 documentary about the event. For those who managed to miss the headlines – and viral memes – which sprouted in the event’s wake, families were left disappointed when attending a low budget event based on Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, with the event’s reality not living up to the fantastic scenes which were advertised with images which were created with AI.
So one of the foremost concerns associated with AI imaging in event advertising is the risk of misrepresentation. AI programmes have the capability to manipulate images to such an extent that they may distort reality, presenting an idealised version of the event venue or atmosphere. This can create unrealistic expectations among potential delegates, leading to disappointment upon discovering that the actual event does not match the digitally enhanced portrayal. Consequently, this mismatch between perception and reality can tarnish the reputation of both the event and its organisers.
By digitally altering images to make them more visually appealing, organisers may inadvertently deceive their audience, undermining trust and integrity. In an era where authenticity is highly valued, such deceptive practices can erode the credibility of the event and damage relationships clients.
There is also a human cost to AI. Overreliance on AI may stifle creativity and human ingenuity. While algorithms excel at certain tasks, they lack the nuanced understanding and creative intuition that human beings possess. By delegating advertising tasks entirely to AI systems, event organisers risk sacrificing the human touch and emotional resonance that human- driven campaigns can provide. Creativity and innovation are essential components of effective advertising to connect with your delegates on a deeper, more meaningful level.
While AI imaging technology holds the promise of making event advertising more convenient and exciting, its indiscriminate use poses significant potential problems. Striking a balance between technological innovation and ethical considerations, if you do use AI to create artwork for your event, it’s essential to make sure you are still advertising the experience accurately and ethically, not only for the sake of your delegate’s experience, but also your brand’s reputation.