Avoiding audio echo was another challenge we encountered in real time at events. While we didn't experience this issue in our testing, the audio echo that did occur was entirely my fault (apologies to all involved). I'm in charge of setting up Jitsi/PeerTube links, monitoring streams and assisting with hosting events. Even though I knew I would need to close all open PeerTube browser tabs once the stream started, I may have more tabs open than I thought, or the stream would autoplay in the Element client I use to monitor the chat. I don't have a convenient way to mute the Element. As I was doing my speaker introductions, you might have noticed that I had about 30 seconds before the audio echo kicked in, so I seemed rushed and rushed in my introductions.
To avoid similar situations, I think there are simpler ways to try:
1. Try to make sure that the host/event host is not the same person who is setting up/monitoring the stream and the chat. (Depending on the number of volunteers, this may not always be possible.)
2. If possible, use two computers: one for monitoring the stream and one for the moderator role. That way, you only need to press the mute button on the computer you're monitoring, simplifying the hosting experience on the other computer.
This is something worth practicing and perfecting beforehand to ensure a smoother livestreaming process.
On the other hand, let's talk about Element.
We created a "backstage" invite-only chat room about a week before the conference and invited all the speakers to join. This brings us several benefits:
1. Our speakers joined Element/Matrix prior to the event and had the opportunity to ask for help with any registration issues (none actually had issues).
2. Before the event, we set up a live communication channel with all the speakers so that we could easily send out announcements and updates.
More than just a tool during the event, the chat room became an essential place to coordinate transitions between speakers. We can provide advance notice of schedule delays and even reschedule presentations in an emergency to account for unpredictable conditions.
Although we also set up a room for the moderator, it is actually redundant in our case. We have found that coordinating through two channels is sufficient, three channels may overcomplicate the situation. In general, the use of Element provides a more efficient, convenient and real-time coordination platform for our activities, making the whole activity process more orderly and smooth.
To sum up, through these challenges we encountered in the event, we deeply realized the complexity and importance of live broadcast technology. Avoiding audio echo and using communication tools effectively are critical to a successful live event. We have learned valuable lessons in practice and are well prepared for future events.
At the same time, we deeply appreciate the convenience and innovation brought by modern technology. As powerful live streaming and video sharing platforms, Jitsi and PeerTube provide high-quality interaction and information delivery platforms for our events. Element played a vital role in conference organization and communication, providing real-time communication channels for speakers and participants.
In the future, we will continue to explore more live broadcast technologies and tools to improve the quality of events and participation experience. We look forward to creating more opportunities for seamless connection and sharing with the help of advanced technology in this digital age, making events more exciting and meaningful. No matter what challenges we encounter, we will continue to work hard to create a better live broadcast experience for every participant.