Match the calculation method to the crowd
Understand why attendance calculation is challenging at open-access events and how crowd behaviour affects your approach.
Explore practical counting techniques
Use methods such as maximum capacity, grid counting, and observational techniques, and understand the pro's and con's of each.
Build a defendable attendance estimate
Apply a mathematically defendable approach to combining multiple calculation methods for reliable figures you can confidently explain.
About the course
Unlike courses focused on crowd management or event operations, this course is dedicated exclusively to attendance calculation at open-access, ungated outdoor events. The content is grounded in original academic research exploring practical attendance calculation methods used by event professionals and demonstrates how multiple methods can be combined to produce reasonable, defendable attendance estimates. Through five practical modules, you'll learn how to understand different crowd types, select attendance calculation methods that fit your event, and apply a framework that combines multiple data sources to produce more credible results. You'll leave the course with an approach you can immediately apply to festivals, parades, concerts, street events, farmers' markets, and other public gatherings. What you'll learn Module 1 — Why Attendance Matters Module 2 — Understanding Your Crowd Module 3 — Practical Attendance Calculation Methods Module 4 — Triangulation Module 5 — Applying the Framework Course format > Learning time: Approximately 3 hours > Self-paced online module-based learning > 90-day access to course material > Practical tools and real-world examples > Learn anytime, anywhere, on a desktop or mobile device Learning is supported through interactive knowledge-testing activities embedded throughout the course modules. To successfully complete the course, participants must achieve a minimum score of 75% on each knowledge-testing activity. Unlimited attempts are provided, allowing participants to revisit the material and demonstrate mastery at their own pace. Digital course completion badge Celebrate your achievement with a digital course completion badge upon successfully finishing the course. Showcase your new knowledge and commitment to professional development by adding your badge to LinkedIn, your email signature, your website, or other professional profiles. It's a simple way to demonstrate your expertise in working effectively with local governments and building stronger community events.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a background in statistics or mathematics?
No. This course is designed for event professionals, not statisticians. The concepts are explained in a practical, easy-to-understand way, with a focus on real-world application rather than complex formulas. You'll learn how to select and apply attendance calculation methods that are appropriate for your event and confidently explain your results.
Will this course teach me one "correct" way to calculate attendance?
No. There is no single universally accepted method for calculating attendance at open-access, ungated events. Instead, you'll learn how to evaluate your event, choose calculation methods that fit your crowd and venue, and use triangulation to combine multiple methods into a reasonable, defendable attendance estimate.
How long will I have access to the course?
This course is currently available for pre-registration. The course will officially launch on September 8, 2026. Once the course is released, registered participants will receive immediate access to all course materials and can complete the course at their own pace. Your course access will remain active for 90 days from the launch date.
Start generating defendable event attendance numbers.
Register today to calculate attendance with confidence at your very next event.
$149.00