In-person vs online
A conference may be organized in one of three formats: in-person, online (virtual), or hybrid, which combines both physical and remote participation. Each format has its own advantages and limitations that must be carefully considered.
In-person conferences offer an enriched experiential environment, fostering spontaneous interaction, informal dialogue, and deeper professional engagement. Nevertheless, they entail higher costs for participants (travel and accommodation) and administrative arrangements related to international mobility, which may limit attendance to those with sufficient institutional or personal resources.
Conversely, online conferences offer greater accessibility, cost-efficiency, and scheduling flexibility, enabling broader international participation. They also provide enhanced opportunities for data monitoring and analytical feedback. However, they lack the immediacy, relational depth, and serendipitous encounters that characterize in-person engagement.
The WIC25 hybrid format
The 1st Wildfire Ignition Causes International Conference (WIC25) will adopt a hybrid format, integrating both on-site attendance (to promote direct networking and collaboration) and virtual participation, thereby ensuring inclusivity for individuals unable to travel, such as participants based in the United States.
A hybrid format seeks to reconcile the strengths of both approaches, extending the reach and inclusiveness of the event. Nonetheless, for the organization, it introduces additional complexity in terms of logistics, technological infrastructure, and coordination, requiring meticulous planning to ensure a seamless and equitable experience for all attendees.
While WIC25 was initially conceptualized as an in-person event, numerous formal requests, particularly from potential participants based in the United States of America, have led the organizing committee to reconsider. Acknowledging the diverse needs of our target audience, we have resolved to transition the conference into a hybrid format. Considering this change, the deadline for abstract submissions has been extended from June 15 to June 29.
Conference registration
Conference registration (in-person and online) and submissions are now open!