I was truly impressed when I visited the IML booth at the BizBash expo - I had been reading quite a bit about their handheld auction devices in recent event reports, and was interested to find out more.

IML has a simple device, about the size of a large cellphone, which can be used by individual guests to interact remotely, privately, and silently with traditional event technologies like PowerPoint. The company’s strongest suit, however, is their clean adaptability to auction events.

Fundraising is essential for everything from non-profit organizations to cultural institutions, and it is common to embed fundraising efforts in a larger event or party, typically in the form of an auction. The IML handheld bidding device is compact,  fits nicely at a place setting, and enables a seamless interaction between bidding guests and the auction action.

Ray Hansen, the East Coast Director for IML, told me the latest trend they are seeing with the IML auction device is team or group bidding, which allows for even greater customization. The devices can be rented for one-time events, or purchased by an organization that frequently hosts fundraising events.

I think this little device is a great addition to the event planner’s toolbox, and its popularity and use are only going to grow.