Preview URL

A feature within the ON24 Platform’s webinar and virtual conference capabilities that enables users to preview and test functionality in the Audience Console.

Overview

  • Testing Environment

    Provides a safe space to test webinar functionality before going live.

  • Quality Assurance

    Ensures the Audience Console looks and behaves as intended.

  • Event Readiness

    Helps teams verify engagement tools, layouts, and media assets.

Summarize this page with:

What Is Preview URL?

A Preview URL is a test link within the ON24 Intelligent Engagement Platform that allows users to view and interact with the Audience Console before an event goes live. This feature replicates the attendee experience, enabling hosts, presenters, and event managers to confirm that all interactive tools, layouts, branding elements, and media assets function as expected.

Preview URLs provide a controlled pre-event environment to review configurations, troubleshoot issues, test content paths, and validate the experience across multiple devices and browsers. To learn more about how ON24 structures digital experiences, visit the ON24 Platform.

Why It Matters

Ensuring a smooth, error-free digital event requires proper preparation. A Preview URL enables teams to thoroughly check their setup before presenting to a live audience. This includes confirming that engagement tools—such as polls, Q&A, surveys, and resources—display correctly and respond as intended.

By simulating the attendee view, users can also validate the flow of the event, test media playback, ensure accessibility elements are configured correctly, and identify potential layout issues in advance. This preparation helps create a high-quality experience for attendees and reduces the risk of last-minute problems.

Previewing is especially important for events built using ON24’s webinar capabilities, which incorporate dynamic engagement tools described at https://www.on24.com/platform/capabilities/webinars/.

How It’s Used

  • Audience Console Review: Teams use the Preview URL to check the layout, branding, widget placement, and console design to ensure it aligns with the event’s goals and visual guidelines.
  • Testing Engagement Tools: Users interact with tools such as polls, surveys, resource lists, and chat to confirm they function properly. This helps hosts and presenters become comfortable with the audience-facing interface.
  • Media and Content Validation: The Preview URL allows verification of video playback, slide transitions, audio quality, and overall content delivery. This is especially useful when building simu-live or on-demand experiences powered by presenter media.
  • Presenter Orientation: Presenters often use the Preview URL to familiarize themselves with the Audience Console before event day. They can practice navigating content and test interactions. For guidance on content and engagement strategies, see https://www.on24.com/resources/propel-your-pipeline/.
  • Technical Troubleshooting: It provides a pre-live environment to test browsers, devices, network settings, and integrations. Identifying issues early helps reduce disruptions during the live session.
  • Quality Control Across Programs: Teams running series-based or enterprise-scale webinar programs use the Preview URL to maintain consistency and ensure each event meets internal standards. Examples of ON24-driven events can be found at https://www.on24.com/resources/upcoming-webinars/.

Key Benefits

  • Improved Event Confidence: Helps hosts and presenters confirm everything is functioning as intended.
  • Reduced Risk: Identifies technical or layout issues before attendees join.
  • Consistent Quality: Ensures each event meets brand and engagement standards.
  • Efficient Workflow: Streamlines testing across teams involved in event preparation.
  • Better Presenter Preparedness: Provides an opportunity to simulate the attendee experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. What Is A Preview URL In ON24?
    • A Preview URL is a test link that allows hosts and presenters to view and interact with the Audience Console before a webinar or virtual conference begins.
  2. How Does The Preview URL Improve Event Readiness?
    • It helps users test engagement tools, validate media playback, and confirm that the event console is fully functional and properly configured.
  3. Can Presenters Use The Preview URL To Practice?
    • Yes. Presenters use it to navigate the console, test interactions, and become comfortable with the event flow.
  4. Is The Preview URL Visible To Attendees?
    • No. It is only accessible to event administrators, ensuring a secure and private testing environment.

Editorial & Methodology Notice

This article adheres to ON24’s editorial and data integrity standards, referencing only verified ON24 benchmark sources and official platform documentation. Updated: November 2025