Our tech department just asked me why we're not using mesh networks to communicate at shows and events. What the heck is a mesh network?

Known as an off-the-grid technology, mesh networks work like old-fashioned walkie-talkies on your smartphone. Rather than relying on an internet connection or cellular signal, these networks generally broadcast your outgoing data to other predetermined users via your phone's Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connection with a range of up to 650 feet. They're useful for situations where internet connections are limited or nonexistent, such as on airplanes, at physically isolated events, or during a natural disaster. Apps that create mesh networks on your phone include ZombieChat (iOS), FireChat (Android and iOS) and The Serval Mesh (Android).