Social, mobile and data have been discussed a lot over the last few years as big trends for events; and more recently sensor technology, drones, 3D mapping…even virtual reality and holograms have all cropped up as emerging tech trends to watch out for.

But when we asked over 500 event professionals the number one product or service is that would transform their events in 2015, we got a surprising result.

In fact, in this exclusive pre-release of the Pulse Report: Event Industry Insights 2015, we can reveal a much less high-tech product is actually being seen as the ‘trend to watch.’

According to 73% of our respondents, who were asked “What one product or solution could have the most profound effect on your events in 2015,” it was ‘Bouncy castles or soft play areas’ that came out on top.

Coming in second was ‘ball pits’ at 65%, and third place, with 59%, was ‘finger painting.’

In the comments section of the survey, we got a better understanding of why organisers see bouncy castles and soft play as a key component of their future events:

“It’s clear that professionals are looking for more engagement and fun out of their conference experience. Providing a throwback to childhood in the form of bouncy castles is clearly the most viable option for tapping into this growing demand.” – B2B Conference Organiser

“We think bouncy castles and soft play areas are the future. Sure, people sign up to our workshops for an education and to further their careers, but it’s has been scientifically proven how important it is to take breaks, relax and be stimulated between learning. They’re the perfect solution.” – Accountancy Training Workshop Organiser

“People enter our races to test themselves and beat their best time, but after all that focus, training and determination, it’s important they have a fun release, so we’re betting big on the impact bouncy castles will have on the experience of our entrants.” – Race Organiser

Do you agree? Are you ready to jump on the bouncy castle trend and bet big on the impact they could have on your events? Or do you think their importance has been inflated?

Let us know your thoughts in the comments!

Update: Yes, sadly, this was an April fools.  Obviously finger painting came out on top.