Mapping Event Space with Sound . . . with Chris Ostoich, LISNR

Apr. 26, 2016

In this Innovating Music episode, Chris Ostoich, co-founder of LISNR, reveals how his sound-based communication protocol revolutionizes fan engagement and operational efficiency at live music events. LISNR’s “smart tones” leverage existing audio systems to deliver proximity-based content and gather crucial audience data at festivals, sports arenas, and retail spaces, creating interactive experiences and new insights into attendee behavior.

Revolutionizing Fan Engagement with Sound

Chris Ostoich details how LISNR acts as the “Intel inside” for audio beacons, using inaudible sound tones via existing speaker systems. This enables real-time, proximity-based notifications—guiding fans, offering discounts, or sending reminders. Beyond enhancing fan experience, it provides organizers with unprecedented data on crowd movement and content engagement, a significant leap from traditional methods.

Navigating Music’s Unique Innovation Landscape

Ostoich compares innovating in music with retail and sports. Music’s vastness brings challenges but also immense growth opportunities when a focused solution hits. Unlike static physical beacons, LISNR’s software-defined zones offer dynamic flexibility crucial for temporary festivals. He stresses that successful startups address distinct “pain points” with precise solutions.

Envisioning the Internet of Sound and Art Tech

Chris Ostoich discusses LISNR’s vision to become as ubiquitous as Bluetooth, integrating into device hardware for an “internet of sound.” He advocates for more “art tech” innovation, exploring how technology can preserve and enhance cultural institutions. Ostoich sees significant opportunities in analytics for understanding audience consumption habits across various arts and music events.

Chris Ostoich’s insights highlight the transformative power of focused tech solutions and vital customer support. He urges listeners, particularly aspiring entrepreneurs, to embrace building something impactful and explore how technology can elevate art and music in our lives.

Highlights

  • “LISTNR is a new communication protocol, not that unlike Bluetooth. We simply use sound around us to make those connections.”
  • “How do we reach our attendees and our fans in entirely new ways? We do things like, when approaching a concession stand, you got discounts.”
  • “We are like an ‘Intel inside’ for audio beacons.”
  • “The support of your platform is easily as important as the product itself.”
  • “I think there’s a tremendous opportunity for innovation in, call it, ‘art tech’.”

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Transcript