Technology plays a pivotal role in ensuring the success of shareholder meetings. Whether you are a listed company, a private firm, or a smaller member organisation, using technology can enhance the experience for everyone involved. Here are some key strategies to help you make the most of technology at your next shareholder meeting.
Use the platform that suits every format
Running a successful shareholder meeting starts with confidence in your technology—and that’s exactly what Computershare delivers. Our purpose-built platform is trusted by organisations worldwide to support every meeting format: in-person, hybrid, or virtual. It’s designed to meet regulatory requirements while offering seamless features like attendee registration, secure voting, live Q&A (both written and verbal), and comprehensive reporting. With everything built in, there’s no need to look anywhere else.
Ensure robust security
Cyber security is a top priority for any organisation, especially when it comes to your shareholder meeting. Computershare is an and-to-end meeting provider, meaning your data doesn’t need to be transferred to third party providers because we manage all aspects of your meeting in-house. You can rest assured your sensitive information is protected with Computershare’s meeting platform, thanks to secure access controls such as hCaptcha.
Prioritise accessibility
Make sure that your shareholder meeting is accessible to all participants. Computershare’s platform supports accessibility features such as closed captioning, screen reader compatibility, and keyboard navigation. Be sure to provide instructions on how to use these features and ensure that all participants are aware of their availability. Don’t forget to also take advantage of the transcription services offered by your webcast partner.
Provide technical support
Technical issues can disrupt the flow of your meeting, so it's essential to have technical support readily available. Designate a team or individual to handle any technical problems that may arise before or during the meeting. Provide participants with a contact number or email address for technical assistance. Also consider creating a troubleshooting guide to address common issues.
Conduct rehearsal sessions
Practice makes perfect, and this is especially true for virtual and hybrid meetings. Conduct rehearsals with key participants to ensure that everyone is familiar with the meeting platform and its features. This will identify any potential issues and allow you to address them before the meeting. Rehearsals also provide an opportunity to run through your presentations and ensure that all technical aspects are functioning smoothly.
Record your AGM
Recording your shareholder meeting can be beneficial for several reasons. It allows participants who were unable to attend to catch up on the proceedings, and it provides a record of the meeting for future reference. Ensure you inform participants that the meeting will be recorded and obtain any necessary consent. Store the recording securely and make it accessible to authorised individuals only. Don’t forget, Computershare can provide a list of the questions raised by shareholders online during the meeting for your records.
By effectively managing technology, you can ensure that your next shareholder meeting is seamless, engaging, and productive. Embrace the digital tools available to you and seek technical support when needed. With the right preparation and approach and working closely with Computershare, you can make the most of technology during the meeting season.