In event management, customers and planners sometimes talk about ticketing and mean guest registration – or vice versa. As a technology provider, we are also repeatedly confronted with this question, which is why we would like to try to shed some light on it.

Ticketing and guest management may be linked, but they relate to different aspects within an event or function. The difference between ticketing and guest registration lies in the way attendees are managed at an event and what information is collected in the process.

Ticketing

• In ticketing, tickets are usually booked – or purchased, which involves payment.
• The ticket serves as proof of access to the event and grants certain rights (e.g. access to certain areas, participation in workshops).
• Information about ticket buyers is not collected in great detail. Only the basic data required for booking or purchasing the tickets.
• One person can book several tickets without specifying the other ticket holders
• Ticketing is highly automated and sales are as simple as possible.
• Form and design of the tickets is specified by the ticketing system
• The aim of ticketing is to sell as many tickets as possible
• The organizer does not necessarily get access to the bookers from the ticketing provider.

Guest registration

• Guest registration is always carried out using personal data.
• The type and amount of information requested can vary greatly. Sometimes the name and e-mail are sufficient, other times extensive information must be provided.
• Registration processes can sometimes have complex workflows and involve additional resources. More on this in the article “Guest management”
• They register themselves and, if necessary, other team or group members
• As with ticketing, a payment process and a ticket can be generated at the end of the process. This is particularly useful if check-in or accreditation is to take place on site.
• Confirmation is mandatory, as important booking confirmations are required depending on the type of event.
• The objectives of guest registration are less purely quantitative and more qualitative. This does not mean that quantity does not play a role – just not to the same extent as in ticketing.
• Guest registration is often the start of a longer guest journey
• Tickets can vary in shape, type and design
• Managing guests is important for the planner as he is in contact with them

Ticketing alone or in combination with guest registration and management

colada offers complete freedom of use and processes. Whether ticketing in the conventional sense or in combination with guest registration is up to the user from project to project. There are no technical restrictions or limitations!