Outdoor Solutions to Elevate Guest Experience

outdoor spaces hospitality blog

Extending the Guest Experience Outdoors

During the summer months, guests want to maximize their time outdoors and often look to hotels to provide them with a fresh and exciting environment to embrace the sunshine. Creating comfortable, inviting, and practical outdoor spaces is fundamental in increasing customer satisfaction, especially as the weather becomes warmer. With the right solutions, guests will find themselves without much reason to leave the property, thus retaining their business for other hotel services, such as food and beverage. Also, it never hurts for passersby – or those looking for accommodations – to see your patio bustling with happy guests.

Creating an Inviting Ambiance

Lighting is one of the most effective elements in creating a specific atmosphere. Aside from the practical aspect, lighting solutions can be used to set the mood and add character to your space. Too dark of an outdoor area at night may conflict with your desired ambiance, especially if your goal is to create a space fit for socializing. However, if you’re looking to design a tranquil escape, you might want to dim the lights.

Strategic lighting fixtures can also create natural walkways for guests that may not be as familiar with the hotel. With the right placement, lighting can reduce confusion and make your space more accessible and safe for your guests.

coffee table firepitAnother way to make your space feel inviting are fire pits. Not only are they great for colder nights, but they practically beg for people to surround them. Nothing says summer like ending the day beside a fire — s’mores optional. Luckily, Hanover’s coffee table fire pit is a wonderful choice for hosting guests. With it’s beautiful woven design and ample space to place beverages, this coffee table will make a great addition to your space and is sure to spark conversation.

Take a look at the Coffee Table Fire Pit by Hanover.

Comfort Goes a Long Way

If you want to create a space where guests will want to stay a while, you may want to consider the quality of the furniture you choose. Cape Soleil Outdoor Furniture combines comfort with a luxurious finish, while seamlessly blending into any aesthetic. Cape Soleil uses durable materials, making these products ideal for the wear that the hotel industry knows all too well. Lounging under the sun easily transitions to sitting around the fire at night with the Cape Soleil Richmond collection. These high-quality, durable pieces will ensure that guests are comfortable for as long as they choose to take advantage of your outdoor space, without sacrificing any of your establishment’s visual appeal.

Peruse the Cape Soleil Richmond collection.patio heater

And to take comfort a step further, investing in patio heaters for your space can make all the difference during those chilly nights. By keeping your guests warm and comfortable, patio heaters can help maximize the time you can hosts guests outside throughout a year, extending your window for outdoor dining and other services. Cambridge creates a 6-ft. flame glass patio heater perfect for creating a cozier, more enjoyable atmosphere. This patio heater uses propane and features an attractive glass cylinder with a clear display of the flames when in use. You can’t go wrong with this patio heater, and you’re guests will surely be appreciative.

Get the details on the Cambridge patio heater.

Entertaining and Engaging

Outdoor entertainment is a game-changer if you want guests to stay on the property instead of venturing out to find entertainment elsewhere. Adding music to an outdoor area can significantly enhance its appeal. Music creates ambiance, setting the tone for relaxing, socializing, or even celebrating. Whether it’s upbeat tunes by the pool or gentle background music on the terrace, music can greatly elevate a guest’s experience, making them feel immersed in their surroundings. Quality outdoor speakers are the best way to create a soundscape for your establishment. Speakers also provide versatility, allowing hotels to cater to different moods and events. Adding music to your space will make it vibrant and all the more inviting, ultimately making it easier for guests to unwind and continue to enjoy their stay.

Furthermore, outdoor TVs can elevate an outside area, especially during special sporting events where you can advertise your space as the place to watch the game. Outdoor TVs are an excellent addition to bar areas or outdoor dining spaces for your guests. The Samsung 55″ Pro TV Terrace Edition Outdoor QLED flat screen is a great option to ensure a high quality viewing experience. This TV features an ultra-bright picture quality, allowing guests to watch comfortably at all times of the day. This model is also waterproof, features an On/Off timer, allowing the TV to automatically operate during business hours. Plus, the TV includes a 16 hour panel, providing a longer daily run time for businesses.

By investing in these outdoor amenities this summer, hotels not only enhance the customer experience, but also create lasting memories that keep guests coming back for more.

Did you find this blog helpful?
You may also enjoy “The Future of Hospitality: Innovations to Watch in 2024”.

Connect with Hospitality at Exertis Almo on LinkedIn, or visit Hospitality.ExertisAlmo.com.

Enhance Your AV Projects with Professional Audio Solutions

As a leading distributor of audiovisual equipment, Exertis Almo understands the critical role that high-quality audio plays in creating effective and immersive environments. Whether you’re equipping corporate meeting rooms, classrooms, chain restaurants, or massive public arenas, the right audio setup can make all the difference. Our goal is to provide comprehensive professional audio solutions that enhance your projects for seamless integration. Let’s explore some of the technology.

The Importance of Professional Audio in Public Spaces

Clear and precise audio is essential to ensuring that every message is delivered effectively, whether it’s a business presentation, a lecture, or a live performance. Poor audio quality can lead to misunderstandings, disengagement, and a lack of impact. That’s why it’s crucial to invest in high-quality audio equipment tailored to your specific project needs.

Tailored Solutions for Different Spaces

Concert Venues and Sports Arenas

production audio for concert venuesIn large-scale venues like concert halls, sports arenas, and theaters, delivering powerful and production-quality audio is critical to creating an immersive experience for the audience. These environments require robust audio systems capable of handling high SPL (sound pressure levels) and wide frequency ranges, ensuring that every note and word is delivered with clarity and impact.

Utilization of advanced line array systems and subwoofers designed to deliver consistent and powerful sound across large spaces is essential. These high-powered speaker systems provide excellent coverage, ensuring that every seat in the venue experiences the same high-quality audio.

Bars and Restaurants

restaurant bar audio zonesCreating the right audio environment in bars and restaurants is crucial for setting the mood and enhancing the customer experience. Whether it’s background music, live entertainment, or clear announcements, the audio system must deliver consistently high-quality sound without overwhelming the space.

Ambient music ensures a pleasant and even distribution of sound, enhancing the atmosphere without overpowering conversations. Use a combination of strategically placed speakers and amplifiers to deliver smooth, even sound throughout the venue.

Bars and restaurants often have different areas with distinct audio needs, such as dining rooms, bar areas, and outdoor spaces. Zone control systems allow for precise audio management in each area, ensuring that the sound levels and types of audio content are appropriate.

Classrooms

campus classrooms and lecture hall audioIn educational environments, audio plays a crucial role in facilitating effective learning and engagement. Our solutions for classrooms are designed to enhance both teacher-student interactions and the overall learning experience.

Classrooms often require versatile audio setups that can accommodate various teaching styles and activities. We provide portable speaker systems and wireless microphone setups that can be easily adjusted to suit lectures, group discussions, or multimedia presentations.

To ensure every student hears clearly, regardless of where they are seated, integrate sound enhancement systems. These include ceiling or wall-mounted speakers with optimized placement and digital signal processing (DSP) to enhance voice clarity and reduce ambient noise.

Meeting Rooms

corporate conference room audioMeeting rooms are vital hubs for collaboration and communication within any organization. The quality of audio in these spaces can significantly impact the effectiveness of meetings and presentations. Our tailored audio solutions for meeting rooms focus on delivering crystal-clear sound and seamless integration with other AV technologies.

Discreet audio solutions can be provided with a range of ceiling-mounted and in-wall speakers that blend seamlessly into the room’s design, ensuring a clean and professional appearance. These speakers deliver high-quality sound without visual distraction, allowing participants to focus on the content.

Sennheiser microphonesOur selection of boundary microphones, gooseneck microphones, and wireless lapel microphones ensure that every speaker is heard clearly, regardless of their position in the room. These advanced microphone systems are designed to pick up voices accurately while minimizing background noise.

Partner with Us for Exceptional Audio

At Exertis Almo, we don’t just provide products; we offer solutions. Our team of experts is here to help you select the right equipment for your specific needs and ensure that your audio setup is optimized for the space. With our extensive range of products and commitment to quality, we are your trusted partner in delivering exceptional audio experiences.

Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you create the ideal audio environment for your next project.

Robert Voorhees

Exertis Almo’s Pro Audio Category Manager

Rob Voorhees | CTS, CTP, DSCE, CTNS, Dante

Director of Business Development

Supported Product Category: Pro Audio & Business Comm Services

SMART Hotel-Room Solutions: In-Room Experiences with an At-Home Feel

SMART Hotel-Room Solutions<br />
In-Room Experiences with an At-Home Feel

SMART devices are an essential part of staying connected, especially in today’s fast-paced reality. More and more, guests are looking for seamless technology solutions in their hotel rooms — technology that meets or exceeds their expectations. From charging stations to streaming services, hotels have the opportunity to provide an in-room experience that feels like home, only better. Let’s explore the latest SMART hotel-room solutions, perfect for enhancing the overall guest experience.

Rest, Relax, Recharge:

Provide guests with continuous charging for every device, all at once. Whether it’s a single phone or five separate devices, your guests should have every opportunity to power-up during their stay. Leading brands, like NonStop, offer a wide range of innovative charging solutions, designed specifically for hotel rooms:

NonStopStation P

As an all-in-one solution, this universal charging station is the perfect hub for ALL of your guests’ devices. This station features:

  • QI-Wireless Charging Pad
  • Dual USB-C and USB-A Charging Ports
  • Dual AC Sockets
  • Braided Cable
  • Security C-Clamp

Learn more about NonStop charging solutions »

Personalized and Powerful Viewing:

The evolution of SMART-TVs has redefined the meaning of in-room service and entertainment. With these recent innovations, you can send personalized messaging to individual guest room TVs, push real-time information like weather, hotel events, and guest amenities, and streamline in-room activities, such as check-out, in-room dining, and program selection. In addition, providing your guests with access to a wide range of entertainment options and streaming services has never been easier. Brands like Samsung and LG are leading the way in SMART in-room TVs, and their solutions are sure to impress.

Samsung In-Room SMART TVs

Samsung’s Pro TV series is designed specifically for hotels. Key features include:

  • Crystal UHD Display: Guests can enjoy stunning visuals with Samsung’s high-resolution displays.
  • Smart Hub: Access popular streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime directly from the TV.
  • Customizable Welcome Screen: Leave a lasting impression with personalized welcome messages and hotel-specific branding.

Explore Samsung’s Guest-Room TVs »

LG In-Room SMART TVs:

LG’s hotel-room TVs provide exceptional entertainment options for guests. Features include:

  • Pro:Centric Smart: LG’s platform allows hotels to customize content, provide local information, and offer interactive services, while allowing guests streaming options.
  • Ultra HD Display: Guests can enjoy vivid, eye-catching colors and sharp images.
  • Energy-Efficient: LG TVs are designed to be eco-friendly and cost effective.

Learn more about LG’s Guest-Room TVs »

Innovation that Leaves a Lasting Impression  

SMART hotel room solutions are essential for providing guests with an exceptional in-room experience. Whether it’s wireless charging or state-of-the-art TVs, hotels that invest in these technologies will create memorable stays for their guests, and keep them coming back for more.

Did you find this blog helpful?
You may also enjoy “The Future of Hospitality: Innovations to Watch in 2024”.

Connect with Hospitality at Exertis Almo on LinkedIn, or visit Hospitality.ExertisAlmo.com.

Getting to Know Programming Services: A Conversation with Tom Kehr & Drew Metherall

In a recent video, Exertis Almo’s Tom Kehr, Systems Designer and Trainer, and Drew Metherall, Programming Manager, discuss different programming topics and how you can position these services to give your business an edge.

Let’s dive into their conversation with key points mentioned in their discussion.

Control and DSP Programming Services

With decades of experience, Kehr and Metherall acknowledge the long and unique history of programming in the AV industry and the complex work completed by programmers.

“There’s a user interface, be it a button panel or touch panel, and often a lot of sensors, and you’re expected to tie all this together to make the experience better for the end user,” explained Kehr.

Kehr begins the discussion with a question.

“What makes Pro AV control so different and unique from a residential system?”

AMX AV control systemMetherall attributes this difference to the added flexibility with Pro AV control and aspects like macros, which you can build and interface with various products, sensors, temperature controls, and lighting, noting that residential universal remotes have limitations in what you can do and are more of a configurable system whereas Pro AV is actual programming of a device.

Regarding the products not distributed by Exertis Almo, Metherall explains that there are some systems that Exertis Almo will not program if they are not up to the level of necessity required in Pro AV.

When discussing the different systems, Kehr brings up the topic of certifications and training within programming.

“I held an AMX certification for 20 years. One of our programmers has a Crestron Silver Level. Our new programmer coming has a Platinum Level. We all hold certifications in Extron, we’ve gotten most of our certification for Q-SYS,” Metherall said. “And if we don’t have [a certification], we’re getting there.”

Kehr elaborates on Metherall’s point, explaining that there is always room for ongoing training.

Kehr and Metherall then discuss the advantages of using Ethernet for an audio-visual control system, explaining that although there are some challenges when mixing audio, video, and control on the same network, you can have a low voltage network company to come in to do all the wiring, since it’s all network, simplifying installation.

Another challenge exists in making changes to an existing control system, as many control files are compiled files. Kehr and Metherall explain that if the client has the original code, or they are willing to invest in a rewrite, Exertis Almo can do that work.

“During an installation, we see the bill of materials, and we have a system schematic or a flow diagram,” Kehr said. “What other documentation do you need as you begin to put the program together?”

In response, Metherall explains that he usually requires a Scope of Work or a Programming Narrative. We typically need a Bill of Materials and a signal flow. While Exertis Almo does not need all these just to do a quote, but once we get into the work, we definitely want all that information.

Kehr mentions that a lot of programming work is event-driven and poses the question, “What can you incorporate into a system for easier use?”

Metherall notes that most programmers utilize a video sync signal off some of the digital or Ethernet-based video transmitters. “We can take that signal and have the system turn on and route to that source without having to even touch a button,” he said.

Metherall elaborates, explaining that many programmers also use sensors on touch panels. Additionally, timers are a frequent addition to a system, allowing the system to turn off after a certain time or turn on at a prescribed time.

Kehr and Metherall also discuss decreased incorporation of voice assistance, acknowledging that these capabilities, like Siri or Alexa, are more present in residential systems.

The duo concludes their conversation by encouraging listeners to learn more by attending the industry-leading expo, E4 Experience.

The discussion offers a detailed look into the world of Exertis Almo Programming Services, with valuable insight on how to expand your reach. Watch the full conversation on YouTube.

If you learned something from this blog and video, you may also enjoy learning how to “Grow Your Business and Expand Your Reach – A Guide to EA’s Commissioning Services” blog.

Tom Kehr

About the Author

Tom Kehr

CTS-D, CTS-I, Network+, LEED Green Associate, ISF-C, ATD Master Trainer

In-House System Designer and Trainer

Supported Applications: System Design

The Evolution of Conference and Event Spaces in Hotels: Embracing Versatile Solutions

The Evolution of Conference and Event Spaces in Hotels: Embracing Versatile Solutions

In the ever-evolving landscape of hospitality, hotels must strive to cater to the various needs of guests and enhance their overall experience. Hotels frequently serve as a space for conferences, meetings, and large events, which, in turn, requires technology and solutions that keep up with the trends. Today, hotels are embracing cutting-edge technologies and transforming these meeting and event spaces into dynamic hubs of productivity, connectivity, and engagement.

Let’s dive into a few up-and-coming solutions that maximize the guest experience.

Interactive Digital Signage and Smart TVs: A Game-Changer

Interactive digital signage has emerged as a game-changer in the realm of conference and event spaces within hotels. These versatile displays serve as more than just static information boards, with interactive and intuitive features that are often customizable. Whether it’s a touchscreen kiosk in the lobby or a large-scale video wall in the conference space, interactive digital signage offers a myriad of functionalities that enhance the overall event experience.

Moreover, these displays can be integrated with event management software, allowing organizers to update schedules in real-time, make announcements, and facilitate attendee engagement through interactive polls and surveys. The flexibility offered by interactive digital signage ensures that hotel event spaces can cater to a wide range of events, from corporate conferences and seminars to weddings and social gatherings.

LG LAEC Series displayConstructed with an embedded controller and built-in speaker, LG’s lineup of All-In-One Displays eliminate the idea that LED displays are complicated to install. With wireless screen sharing, the LAEC Series is compatible with LG One:Quick Share, allowing a user to share their screen from their device to the display. Plus, the Magic Remote allows users to select and run the menu of the signage using a mouse, with the cursor used as a laser pointer. Additionally, the remote features a “FREEZE” button, to temporarily freeze the screen while switching the content, therefore limiting meeting distractions.

Explore the LAEC Series display details »

Designed to conduct efficient meetings or advertise important information, LG’s UHD LED Backlit Large Format Monitor includes an assortment of tools to meets a hotel’s signage and communication requirements. Featuring a 4K UHD native resolution for enhanced detail, LG’s UHD signage provides a clear view with a non-glare coating.

Learn more about the lineup »

Charging Technology in Meeting Spaces

NonStop conference charging stationHotels are often a go-to location for sales meetings and corporate events, so it’s important to prioritize guests and their devices. With Nonstop wireless charging technology, meeting attendees can efficiently charge their devices, without searching for wall outlets scattered across the room.

Station P features a variety of capabilities designed for the hotel space, including Qi wireless charging, USB-C and USB-A charging, and more. When placed throughout a conference room, this solution provides ample charging options for nearly any device.  Explore the details »

UHD LED Backlit LFMWayfinding Made Simple

Navigating large hotel complexes can be daunting, especially for guests attending events in unfamiliar surroundings. Interactive digital signage simplifies wayfinding by providing intuitive maps, directions, and points of interest within the hotel premises. Guests can effortlessly locate conference rooms, restrooms, dining options, and other amenities with interactive touchscreens. By integrating wayfinding functionalities into interactive digital signage, hotels can alleviate guest frustrations and ensure seamless transitions between different areas of the property.

By embracing these innovations, hotels can differentiate themselves in a competitive market, offering unparalleled event experiences that leave a lasting impression on guests. The evolution of conference and event spaces in hotels is not just about physical infrastructure; it’s about harnessing the power of technology to create meaningful connections, foster collaboration, and inspire memorable moments. As we look to the future of technology in conference and event spaces, one thing is certain: the evolution of conference and event spaces in hotels will continue to be driven by innovation, creativity, and a commitment to delivering exceptional hospitality experiences.

Did you find this blog helpful?
You may also enjoy “The Future of Hospitality: Innovations to Watch in 2024”.

Connect with Hospitality at Exertis Almo on LinkedIn, or visit Hospitality.ExertisAlmo.com

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