Most corporate event teams, agencies, expo organizers and data analysts use a variety of virtual event platforms across their business. However, the data produced by these platforms can vary widely from one vendor to the next. 

• The job of consuming this essential data into other business systems becomes very challenging 
• This can create data silos; pots of data that don’t talk to each other or contribute to wider business insight

Where we have siloed data, there are barriers to learning, progress and a better event experience. 

That is why VSef/RSDE has created a universal data structure and output format that enables events to consume consistent data regardless of which platforms they are working with. 

Universal data formats exist in many industries and they offer significant advantages to the end users and vendors alike.

VSef was launched in early 2021 as a response to the rising uptake of digital event platforms and the increase in virtual event experiences. Its goal was creating a global standardized data structure and output format for digital events. VSef is backed by many leading organizers and platforms, and supported by the event industry’s leading strategic partners.

Simultaneously, global assurance provider BPA Worldwide identified the lack of standardized data in the digital events sector and launched the RSDE initiative with the support of industry leaders. In September 2022, BPA acquired VSef from Explori. The resulting collaboration created a single, globally recognized industry data and reporting standard for digital and hybrid events and meetings.

Founding members include global event organizers and leading event tech platform partners, who have come together to create a shared industry-wide standard. VSef/RSDE is open to all event organizers and any platform can choose to adopt the standards. The data standards have been developed collaboratively by a working group led by a working group of industry experts. 

VSef is a not-for-profit initiative.