Your company’s conference rooms could include so much more than a table and chairs. Today’s audiovisual and communications technology can enhance these spaces for state-of-the-art presentations and first-rate seminars. In addition, they can be connected to offices around the world so that you can share ideas and collaborate even across vast distances.
However, before you take advantage of these benefits, consider the components that are necessary to modernize this space. Assembling the system that best suits your situation means understanding what goes into one of these arrangements and the role each element serves. If it’s time to upgrade your offices, this AV requirements checklist should help you make the most informed decisions.
1. Interactive Displays
A plain whiteboard may have been the best way to help your team visualize a concept once upon a time, but technology is different now. High-definition displays designed for office environments offer the ability to exhibit videos and slideshows, as well as write notes or interact with content using touchscreen functionality. During video conferences, these screens can also show a presentation and a participant’s face at the same time through picture-in-picture capabilities.
2. Conferencing Solutions
Collaborating with people in different locations is much easier when the offices are connected via conferencing technology. Although it may be less expensive to opt for a voice-only solution, adding live video feeds allows you to pick up on facial expressions, body language and other nuances that would be lost with a strictly audio setup. However, there are times when it is not necessary or practical to have all participants on-camera. This is why a system that gives you the flexibility to choose should be high on your audiovisual checklist.
3. Connectivity
A quick and easy setup for meetings and presentations is crucial for their success. This is why you need to consider how devices will connect to the integrated systems in your new conference room arrangement. Although wireless connections are possible and offer numerous benefits, a wired connection can be easily incorporated into a table or desk to allow simple access and consistent quality — without creating a rat’s nest of cables.
4. Cameras
Although small rooms may be able to get by with a simple webcam, larger areas require equipment that is bit more sophisticated. The camera you choose should have features that scale it to your available space. Modern conferencing systems often include remote-control cameras that can be adjusted as needed to focus on the person speaking or to capture an entire group. This allows presenters the freedom to move about, communicating comfortably rather than remaining fixed for an ideal viewing angle.
5. Sound Systems
If you are upgrading your multimedia setup, there is no excuse for poor-quality sound. One of the top items on your AV checklist for events should be microphones and speakers that are capable of capturing and producing crystal-clear audio. Professionals can construct the ideal configuration to ensure that everyone in the room can hear and the presentations are clear and crisp.
6. Controls
An intuitive and simple-to-use control panel gives the administrator or presenter the ability to switch slides and images smoothy and easily. For example, you can begin a slideshow, share it with a remote office and then seamlessly transition to a video conference without delay. This is incredibly important to ensure the highest levels of engagement and eliminate frustrations that often accompany the use of such technologies.
Having the proper audiovisual setup in your conference room could make the difference between leveraging telecommunications tech and being stymied by it. At McCann Systems, we know how to get the most out of these technologies. To learn how we can improve your AV situation, get in touch with us today.
