Monetizing Digital Signage

As digital signage continues to grow, many Pro AV integrators have made a conscious decision to avoid it.   The main reason I’ve been told when discussing the topic is the perception that digital signage is not profitable.   After spending time reviewing various integration partners’ digital signage strategy, I agree that the return on investment in time and resources just isn’t there.  The problem isn’t necessarily about a lack of revenue available, but rather the digital signage strategy that they’ve employed.

The simple truth is that many pro AV integration firms do not have a true signage strategy.  Almost all offer signage products.  Great products to boot.  Many even have a good understanding of how the signage products function.  What they lack is a strategy on how to deploy a successful, and yes, profitable full signage solution for their clients.  I believe this to be for one of three reasons.  The first, and probably most influential, is their sales team is not compensated for selling, what many would contend is a more difficult sale – a solution with ongoing costs.  Another reason that ties into the first, is the misconception that end users won’t see the value associated with an ongoing expense.  Lastly, the integrator believes they lack the resources needed to successfully complete such a project.

So, why should you care?  After all, coming up with a signage strategy may take some effort, and just because I’m paid to care probably isn’t a good enough reason for you.

Ok, glad you asked.  Here are the down-and-dirty bullet points to why you should care.  I’ve also provided a few recent “case studies” at the end that highlight the value of a solution.

  • Recurring Revenue
  • Higher margin
  • Consistent contact with clients
  • Reduce or eliminate competition

Grandview Research indicates the global digital signage market size was valued at USD 24.86 billion in 2022 and is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.0% from 2023 to 2030.

The simple truth is, if you can’t offer your clients a solution, they may find someone else who can.

Now, this probably is not convincing enough, so let me show you how a few simple steps will allow you to build this business.

There are a few requirements in developing a digital signage strategy, which do take a little effort in the beginning, but little to no financial commitment from the integrator.  These include the following steps.

Step 1 –  Develop Partnerships

This is the most important part of the process and may require assistance from a third party – like your favorite Pro AV distributor.

The most common partnership is with a digital signage content management provider.  These companies specialize in providing the software and services necessary to provide a complete solution.  Below are some key factors you should consider when finding a signage solution.

  • Client base
  • Features needed
  • Player options
  • Security Needs
  • Additional Services
  • Channel Friendly
  • Expertise required

Your client base is used to determine which integrations or services they would typically need.  Verticals typically require similar integrations, so knowing which verticals you wish to service helps thin out the options.

Next, you’ll need to find the correct provider.  Many digital signage providers specialize in one or two verticals, which typically coincide with similar verticals that Pro AV integration firms will focus on.  One of our CMS partners, offers the integrations commonly requested by higher education (CAP) as well as corporate (Power BI) – both verticals are highly sought after by many of our integration partners.

Once identified, develop partnership(s) with these digital signage provider(s) that offer the products and services your client needs, as well as provide services that enhance your company’s offerings.   You may only need one well-rounded partner to fit all your needs.

Many of the CMS partners we work with can take most projects from needs analysis, all the way through to completion, and even after sale training.

Step 2 – Signage Evangelist

Assign someone (or ask for a volunteer) the role of Signage Evangelist.  This person does not need to have any specific experience but should serve as the main contact so that requests are funneled through a single contact to make sure requests are properly directed.  These are then directed to the partnership from Step 1.

Step 3 – Operations

Assign internal operational assignments for subscription processing to make sure recurring revenue is accounted for and collected.

Step 4 – Compensation

Establish a pay structure that rewards sales of recurring revenue products to help drive interest in signage projects.

Now that I’ve covered the steps to developing a strategy, below are a few recent case studies that highlight how having a signage solution adds value to both your clients, as well as your bottom line.

Case 1

A 6-display video wall for a Fortune 50 corporation. The initial sale was for 6 media players behind a video wall.  Excluding the displays, mounts, etc., the total signage revenue was about $2100.

After deployment, it was apparent that the end user was having a difficult time managing the content for the video wall and keeping content relevant. After some discussions, it was determined that the project needed a signage solution provider.  A channel-friendly CMS was brought into the mix, who was able to conduct a needs analysis, provide a virtual demo a temporary license, and lastly a proof of concept.

After 6 months, the end user liked the solution so well that they rolled it out to several displays located throughout their building.  Then even later into additional buildings.  This accounted for another $150K+ in business, including over $6K in services at over 50% margin, and an annual recurring license of $32K.  The license was sold at 20% margin, which the integrator will collect annually.

Case 2

A local school purchased a single display as an information board for the school’s sports activities, to be managed by one of the coaches.  The original integrator deployed a digital media player behind a display but didn’t offer training or additional services to get it up and running.

After a year, a new integrator came in to provide a touch display for a classroom and asked about the blank screen.  He was then allowed to loop in a signage partner to perform a needs analysis via Zoom.  The signage partner was able to overcome any concerns the school had, who purchased a single license a few weeks later.

That solution is now district-wide on over 60 displays.

Conclusion

It’s my belief that signage will continue to grow within the Pro AV space, and that annual recurring contracts will become the norm.  My goal is to help clients navigate that change while adding value to their business.  If I can help your business in any way, please feel free to contact me, or your Exertis Almo account manager.

Todd Heberlein
About the Author

Todd Heberlein | CTS, DMC-D-4K, DSCE

Senior BDM – Technical Lead

Supported Manufacturers: LG dvLED and Brightsign

Exploring Outdoor Spaces: the Power of AV in QSR Drive-Thru and Outdoor Dining

Welcome to the season of outdoor adventures! With warmer weather beckoning, patrons are eager to dine al fresco and enjoy the great outdoors. As the demand for outdoor dining and drive-thru experiences continues to rise, so does the importance of integrating audiovisual (AV) technology to enhance customer engagement and satisfaction.

Now is the perfect time for Pro AV integrators to dive into the realm of Outdoor AV solutions and grow their offerings for the high-growth Quick-Service Restaurant (QSR) market.

Let’s explore the innovative applications of AV solutions for QSRs and outdoor dining areas.

Peerless-AV menu board drivethru KOF555-31. Digital Menu Boards for Dynamic Displays

Say goodbye to static menu boards and hello to dynamic digital displays. Digital menu boards offer QSRs the flexibility to update menu items, promotions, and pricing in real time, catering to changing customer preferences, deals, and seasonal offerings. These eye-catching displays not only capture attention but also drive upsell opportunities and enhance the overall customer experience with a more efficient ordering process. Additionally, customers can view the items in their order on the screen, allowing them to make any corrections necessary before reaching the window.

Peerless-AV’s Outdoor Digital Menu Boards are all-weather rated and provide a simple installation process while allowing users to update the digital content remotely and in real-time.

2. Enhanced Communication in QSR Drive-Thru Lanes

Microphone and SpeakerGone are the days of crackling speakers and static-filled orders. AV technology is revolutionizing the drive-thru ordering experience, providing crystal-clear audio and seamless communication between customers and staff. Peerless-AV’s Speaker and Mic retrofits to the Outdoor Digital Menu Board for quick and simple installation, while delivering clear audio quality to ensure that every order is heard accurately, and every interaction is memorable.

3. Convenience of Interactive Ordering Kiosks

LG KioskFor those who choose to order in-store, interactive ordering kiosks empower customers to take control of their ordering experience. These user-friendly touchscreens provide a convenient way for patrons to browse menus, customize orders, and complete transactions independently. By streamlining the ordering process, QSRs can reduce wait times, minimize order errors, and improve overall operational efficiency.

Designed to elevate any quick-service restaurant, the LG Self-Ordering Kiosk Monitor showcases vivid product images for easy ordering and doubles as an advertising screen when in standby mode. Maintenance is a breeze with its drawer-type design, allowing access to essential components, like the receipt printer and card reader without needing to disassemble the body. To learn more, watch the Exertis Almo podcast discussion on QSRs and kiosks.

4. Immersive Outdoor Dining Experiences

Transform outdoor dining areas into vibrant entertainment hubs with AV technology. Weather-resistant speakers, outdoor TVs, and ambient lighting create immersive environments that captivate diners and enhance their dining experience. Whether it’s live music, sports events, or digital signage displaying mouth-watering menu items, AV solutions elevate the outdoor dining experience.

Peerless AV Outdoor DisplayThe Xtreme High Bright Displays from Peerless-AV are built to withstand the elements. These displays provide stunning picture quality – even under direct sunlight. With an operating temperature range of -31F to 140F and AK10 protective glass, Xtreme Displays are designed to thrive year-round. With an ambient light sensor that adjusts brightness accordingly, these displays offer impressive versatility for any outdoor setting.

Designed exclusively for the Peerless-AV 75″ Xtreme High Bright Outdoor Display, the Outdoor Landscape/Portrait Wall Mount combines versatility, simplicity, and stability.

Samsung’s BHT Series Pro Terrace Edition is an outdoor QLED TV ready for a variety of customizable possibilities. Designed to engage customers in any outdoor environment, the series provides ultra-bright picture quality, weather-resistant durability, easy content management, and business-grade solutions. No matter the season, the IP55 weatherproof rating protects the display from the outdoor elements including humidity, dust, and heat.

BHT Series Pro TV Terrace Edition

Enhance the outdoor audio experience with excellent full-range sound quality and 360-degree coverage of listening space, JBL’s Compact 5” Mushroom-Style Landscape Speaker is ideal for restaurants, pool areas bars, outdoor food courts, and more. And with a compact size and hunter green exterior, the speaker easily blends in with the landscaping.

As detailed in the blog, “Bringing Harman-ies Outdoors,” Rob Voorhees, Exertis Almo Business Development Manager, provides an in-depth guide about the outdoor audio category, featuring product recommendations for various outdoor projects and applications.

5. Seamless Integration and Scalability

One of the key advantages of AV technology is its ability to seamlessly integrate with existing infrastructure and scale to meet evolving business needs. Whether you’re working with a small QSR looking to enhance their drive-thru experience or a large chain expanding their outdoor dining offerings, AV solutions can be tailored to suit their specific requirements and budget.

In conclusion, the integration of AV technology in QSR drive-thru lanes and outdoor dining areas is transforming the way customers engage with food service establishments. By leveraging innovative AV solutions, QSRs can enhance communication, streamline operations, and create memorable experiences that keep customers coming back for more.

Ready to elevate your outdoor dining and drive-thru restaurant projects?
Reach out to us today to explore how our range of AV hardware and software solutions can help you achieve your goals.

Audio-Visual Trends in Higher Education That Elevate the Learning Experience

As the landscape of higher education evolves, so does the role of audio-visual technology in shaping learning environments for in-person and remote students. Let’s explore the top 5 trends that are revolutionizing AV in higher education institutions – and the solutions that help create a more accessible and inclusive learning space.

1. Interactive and Collaborative Learning

Interactive and engaging learning experiences are increasing in popularity among colleges and universities, and AV technology is rising to meet this demand. Interactive displays, touchscreens, and collaboration tools are transforming traditional classrooms into dynamic hubs of innovation. These spaces empower students to actively participate in their education, fostering collaboration, critical thinking, and creativity.

Projection Technology
Create engaging and collaborative learning environments with projection technology from Epson. With support for easy reading, instruction, and communication, BrightLink ensures that all students are included while bringing classrooms to life with efficient collaboration. Explore the BrightLink 760Wi Interactive Projector and the Pro 1485FI Interactive Projector for details.

Yealink - MeetingBoard touch displaysInteractive Displays
Designed to increase productivity and participation, interactive touch displays allow for effortless collaboration. Featuring a built-in camera and premium audio, Yealink’s MeetingBoard and MAXHUB’s ViewPro Series simplify classrooms and workspaces for immersive hybrid instruction.

2. Flexible Environments and Multi-Use Spaces

The shift towards flexible learning environments is reshaping the physical layout of classrooms and lecture halls in higher education. AV technology plays a crucial role in creating adaptable spaces that can easily accommodate different teaching styles and activities. Wireless presentation systems, movable furniture, and modular AV setups enable educators to customize the learning experience to meet the needs of students.

Many universities have several multi-use spaces throughout campus, and these areas require versatile technology. Higher education spaces will often use libraries for events, lecture halls for guest speakers, and cafes and study spaces for small-scale performances and entertainment.

Sennheiser G4 300 SeriesAudio Solutions
During lectures and events, microphone systems help amplify the presenters for better engagement from in-person and remote participants. Top of the class in education, Sennheiser’s G4 300 Series Wireless handheld base set is the best choice if you need a handheld transmitter and maximum flexibility.

[For more, check out the blog titled “The Dreaded Gymcafatorium: 3 Keys to Successful Multi-Use Audio Design” – Exertis Almo’s Tom Kehr provides insight into audio design in these challenging multi-use spaces.]

Epson large venue projectorsSpace-Saving Projection
Epson’s line-up of large venue projectors are an ideal choice for multi-use spaces, featuring larger-than-life images and simple installation. For rooms with limited space, the Epson laser projectors transform virtually any flat surface into a display for learning and collaboration, without taking up any space when not in use.

Portable and easy to set up in any space, Panasonic’s PT-LMW420U portable projector will help elevate communication quality with crisp, detailed images that stay clearly visible in well-lit rooms. Plus, Panasonic projectors are so intuitive they can work with the software and hardware you already have and don’t require you to be a projection expert to use them.

AV Furniture to Setup Anywhere
Legrand-AV mounts screensAV systems must also be flexible to be able to handle constantly changing classroom needs to fit hybrid, hyflex, in-person and distance learning styles, often all in the same day. The Da-Lite Tensioned Advantage electric projection screens with SightLine elevate room aesthetics and simplify setup for flexible mounting in a variety of room sizes and ceiling heights.

Colleges and universities are embracing AV trends in digital signage now more than ever as a key element of their essential information-sharing and messaging plans for reaching everyone on campus. Whether it’s a mobile cart, floor stand, or kiosk, Legrand-AV offers the flexibility to move and place digital signage where it’s needed.

3. Assistive Listening for Inclusivity and Accessibility

assistive listening systemTechnology that promotes inclusivity and accessibility is paramount in education spaces, as it ensures that each student has the opportunity to learn and thrive. Incorporating assistive listening technology is crucial, as it ensures that each individual can fully participate in classroom discussions and activities, fostering equal access to educational opportunities for all students.

Perfect for venues with a capacity of up to 100 people, the the LS-57 Advanced Level II Stationary RF System from Listen Technologies broadcasts a strong, reliable RF to ensure the best possible listening experience for everyone.

4. Lecture Capture and Streaming for HyFlex Learning

In an era of digital learning, lecture capture technology has become a cornerstone of higher education institutions. AV systems equipped with lecture capture capabilities enable educators to record and archive lectures for on-demand access by students. This flexible learning model empowers students to review course materials at their own pace, reinforcing learning outcomes and accommodating diverse learning styles.

PTZOptics Move 4K cameraAuto-Tracking Capabilities
Engineered to simplify the hybrid learning process, auto-tracking cameras are a great option to ensure that students can always see the professor during the lecture. The Move 4K is the latest PTZ camera from PTZOptics, featuring auto-tracking for a more intelligent video production workflow. The Move 4K is capable of 4K at 60fps (1080p at 60fps over SDI), future-proofing your technology investment while still accommodating HD and Full HD video resolution equipment.

Lecture-Capture Solutions for the Classroom
In modern classrooms, lecture capture is essential to create an inclusive learning experience for each student. Additionally, many courses are now asynchronous, requiring a professor to pre-record the lecture material and upload for the students’ review.

Panasonic’s LCS-100 lecture capture appliance integrates with the ATS-200 / ATS-400 auto-tracking servers, and PTZ cameras with voice-triggered presets using Panasonic Pro Audio, including ceiling microphones, gooseneck and boundary microphones, and more.

The LC200 CaptureVision System from Lumens is an all-in-one media station that allows instructors to easily mix video and audio sources while streaming and recording lectures for engaging and attractive presentations.

5. AI-Powered Tech and Data for a Personalized Experience

AVer VB130Advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) are reshaping the landscape of higher education by enabling personalized learning experiences for each student. AI-powered analytics tools analyze student data to identify learning patterns, preferences, and areas for improvement. With this insight, educators can tailor instruction to meet the unique needs of each student, fostering deeper engagement and academic success. Here are a few key solutions to create a personalized experience for students:

AVer’s VB130 is a powerful, all-in-one hybrid learning tool featuring 4K video and built-in audio for an exceptional student experience. With advanced AI and SmartFrame technology, the videobar keeps the professor in camera view while focusing on their voice so students do not miss any content.
Designed for remote teaching rooms, Yealink’s A20 + CTP18 is equipped with AI technology, including auto-framing and speaker tracking, allowing instructors to create a vivid classroom experience without restricting movement.

Summing It Up

The future of higher education is bright with possibilities, thanks to the transformative power of audio-visual technology. As institutions continue to embrace these solutions and trends, we’re excited to partner with you in delivering innovative products that elevate learning experiences and empower students in the classroom and online.

Ready to embark on your AV journey?
Reach out to us today to explore how Exertis Almo can help you harness the power of technology to transform your educational projects.

 

Behind the Panel: Accessories in the Digital Signage Market

I am excited for this edition of Behind the Panel, as we are going to dive into digital signage. But what does that mean to us? Let’s look at what digital signage is:

Digital signage is a dynamic form of communication that utilizes digital displays to convey information, advertisements, or messages to viewers. Initially emerging as a modern alternative to traditional static signage, digital signage has evolved to become a versatile tool used across various industries such as retail, hospitality, transportation, and healthcare. With the ability to deliver real-time content updates, targeted messaging, and interactive experiences, digital signage has transformed the way businesses engage with their audience. Today, the digital signage industry continues to grow rapidly, driven by advancements in technology, such as high-definition displays, Direct View LED, cloud-based content management systems, and data analytics. This growth reflects the increasing demand for personalized and engaging communication strategies in both physical and digital spaces. Digital signage has truly become all encompassing. Everyone knows that you need a display of some kind for digital signage to work, and today, we are going to look at some of the more basic “nuts and bolts” that are needed to make your solution work. Luckily, for us, here at Exertis Almo, we have partnered with Legrand, who make these essential products that really do lay the groundwork for great digital signage experiences.

1. Mounting Solutions:

When it comes to digital signage, a sturdy and reliable mounting solution is crucial for ensuring the display is securely fixed in place. There are a range of mounting solutions that provide flexibility and ease of installation. Looking at our partners from Chief, whether it’s wall mounts, ceiling mounts, or floor stands, Chief’s products are designed to accommodate various display sizes and installation environments, making it easier to set up digital signage in diverse locations. They also are industry-leading in creating innovations that make installation much easier for integrators. Less time spent on the installation means more profit for the integrator. As I talked about when we discussed mounts way back in Volume 1, cheaper solutions are not always cheaper in the long run.

2. Cables/Cable Management:

C2GMaking sure that you have quality cables for your installation should be of extreme importance. Cables2Go has a wide range of cables, many of which are covered by a lifetime warranty and each cable is tested along the line. Can you buy a less expensive cable? Probably, but think down the road how much time is wasted deploying techs to a job for a faulty cable. Effective cable management is often overlooked by less experienced installers, but it’s essential for maintaining a clean and professional installation. Legrand’s cable management solutions from Chief and Middle Atlantic help organize and conceal cables, ensuring a neat and polished look for the digital signage setup. With options for both in-wall and on-wall cable management, Legrand products simplify the routing of cables, reducing clutter and minimizing the risk of damage to cables during installation. They even offer over floor and under carpet cable management through Wiremold.

3. Power and Connectivity:

Reliable power distribution and connectivity are fundamental to the seamless operation of digital signage. Middle Atlantic and Cables2Go‘s power and connectivity solutions offer the necessary infrastructure to support the display and its peripherals. From power outlets to data connectivity panels, CHIEF Tempo Wall System bundleLegrand products are designed to provide easy access to power and connectivity, simplifying the setup process and ensuring a robust electrical infrastructure for the digital signage system. Middle Atlantic has a full line of Power Strips, PDUs, and UPS battery backups that can work for almost any project size or budget. How about the ability to monitor power going to your signage display from anywhere in the world? With Middle Atlantic’s NEXSYS line, you can do that and so much more.

What if I told you Legrand makes an amazing solution for digital signage that includes mounting, cable management, and power all in one product. You should check out the Tempo Flat Panel Wall Mount System. It includes a wall mount, and the ability to install 2-6 small devices using the integrated Lever Lock storage panels. You can even have it shipped with a Middle Atlantic 7-outlet power strip!

4. Thermal Management:

Maintaining optimal operating temperatures is essential for the longevity and performance of digital signage displays. Whether you are using a kiosk solution from Chief or have your valuable equipment in a Middle Atlantic rack, Legrand’s thermal management solutions help dissipate heat efficiently, preventing overheating and ensuring the reliability of the display in various environmental conditions. By utilizing thermal management products, installers can enhance the longevity of the digital signage hardware and minimize the risk of performance issues due to excessive heat buildup.

5. Network Integration:

Luxul SwitcherIn most digital signage installations, integration with the local network is essential for delivering your message from your signage player to the display (unless, of course, your display has a built-in signage player, but we are not going down that wormhole today). Luxul switches are a popular choice in digital signage solutions due to their reliability, performance, and scalability. These switches are known for their robust design, specific to the AV industry, which ensures seamless operation in demanding environments where digital signage is deployed. With features like Quality of Service (QoS) support and VLAN capabilities, Luxul switches help prioritize traffic and ensure smooth delivery of content, resulting in a high-quality viewing experience for audiences. Their compatibility with various network setups and easy integration with other components make Luxul switches a preferred networking solution for powering and managing digital signage systems effectively.

That will about do it for this edition. Remember, when planning a digital signage installation, it is essential to consider the broader ecosystem of accessories beyond the display itself. Legrand’s range of mounting solutions, cable management products, power and connectivity solutions, thermal management products, and network solutions offer valuable support for installers, making the process smoother and the end result of higher quality. With Legrand’s commitment to innovation and reliability, installers can confidently tackle digital signage installations, knowing that they have the support of industry-leading accessories designed to simplify their work and enhance the overall quality of the installation.

See you next time, Behind the Panel!

Patrick Booth, BDM

About the Author

Patrick Booth | CTS, DSCE

Business Development Manager

Supported Manufacturers: Legrand AVChief, C2G, Da-Lite, Luxul, Middle Atlantic, Vaddio, Wiremold

Transform Worship Spaces with Cutting-Edge AV Solutions

In the dynamic House of Worship market, the fusion of spoken word, live music, and community events offers unique opportunities for professional audio-visual integrators to elevate devotional spaces and design enriching worship experiences with comprehensive, cutting-edge AV solutions. You can rely on Exertis Almo as a resource for the technology involved in designing systems that engage every member of a congregation – whether they are in the sanctuary, in overflow rooms, or participating remotely. These solutions also enable a broader reach for the worship organization through social media and video streaming, which can expand their resources for effective fundraising – fostering a stronger, more connected community.

From live streaming to artificial intelligence, technology innovations are reshaping AV solutions for worship spaces. Adapting to these tech trends ensures that your worship projects remain relevant and technologically advanced.

Let’s Explore 7 AV Technologies that are Uplifting the HoW Market:

Sony SRG-A40 auto-framing ptz camera1. Video and Live Streaming – Expand Community Outreach

With the paradigm shift towards remote ministry and hybrid congregations over the last few years, AV technology has become a bridge – connecting dispersed communities and providing comfort with familiar messages. As houses of worship embrace video technology in a new way, they can leverage live-streaming technology to reach a broader audience and enable congregants to participate in services from anywhere.

Video streaming cameras range from basic PTZ cameras to advanced tracking and framing capabilities. Unattended cameras can be discreetly installed in hard-to-reach places, covering any size of worship space with powerful zoom for frame-filling close-ups. To find out how bandwidth needs have expanded for worship spaces as a result of this trend toward video streaming, check out Rob Voorhees’ blog.

Harman - JBL-pro-audio - Martin-lighting2. Sound, Lighting, and Imagery – Uplift with Immersive Experiences

AV technology, including advanced sound systems and high-quality projectors, is enabling the creation of more immersive worship experiences. Visual enhancements, dynamic lighting, and surround sound all contribute to a more engaging atmosphere.

Projection mapping techniques can also be employed to transform the physical space of the worship area. This allows for dynamic visual storytelling and thematic enhancements

CHRISTIE projectors - projection mapping
Martin Lighting color wash

3. Digital Displays and Signage – Deliver Awe-Inspiring Visuals

Samsung the Wall dvLEDDigital signage is increasingly used for displaying announcements, song lyrics, and other information. This dynamic form of communication enhances engagement and keeps congregants informed. Overall, digital signage is an excellent way to facilitate community engagement and share updates, enhancing the overall worship experience.

Direct View LED all-in-one displays, such as Samsung’s The Wall, provide integrators with a drastically improved installation process, and new avenues to create unparalleled visual statements in common areas as well as behind the pulpit or on the stage inside the main sanctuary.

Atlona Twisted Pair ExtensionEffortlessly share messages throughout the facility in stunning 4K resolution with top connectivity solutions.

4. Interactive Displays and Collaboration Tools for Hybrid Congregations

Interactive teaching HisenseCollaboration tools and video conferencing solutions are integrated into AV setups, facilitating remote participation for members who are unable to attend physically.

Interactive displays and touchscreens, like Hisense’s GoBoard, are also being used for teaching and interactive worship sessions. This allows for a more dynamic and interactional experience for congregants, especially in educational settings.

5. Accessibility Features – Ensure Everyone is Included

Houses of worship are implementing various accessibility features, such as hearing loop systems and closed captioning services, to ensure that services are accessible to individuals with hearing impairments. From incorporating additional digital signage into the space to upgrading audio systems and features, accessibility is a key factor in fostering an environment where all members of the community can participate with ease.
Assistive Listening technologies
The spoken word is the most fundamental part of a worship service. Including support for hearing-impaired members with an assistive listening system can help address regulatory compliance, increase inclusivity, and expand reach so the message can be heard by all.

6. Podcasting and Social Media Content – Amplify the Message

worship podcastPodcasting studios within houses of worship have become more common, enabling the creation of audio content for a broader audience beyond those attending in-person. Acting as a supplement to traditional worship, podcasts have become a powerful tool for sharing discussions and teachings with a global audience, extending beyond the physical congregation.

Through podcasts and social media outreach, houses of worship can share and extend their influence and inclusivity, creating a sense of unity among listeners, regardless of their location.

7. Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality – Embrace the Future

AR VRWhile still emerging, some houses of worship are exploring the use of Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) technologies to create unique and immersive spiritual experiences, transcending traditional boundaries. By embracing this new technology in the House of Worship space, spirituality can become more accessible and adaptable to the evolving preferences of congregations.

We hope you’re inspired by the potential of AV technologies playing an integral role in designing immersive worship experiences, promoting accessibility, and adapting to the changing needs of worshipers. Exertis Almo is committed to assisting our integrator partners in optimizing technology for all your House of Worship projects. Whether it involves a simple upgrade or a complete redesign, our expertise lies in the seamless integration of audio, visual, and streaming capabilities to elevate every worship space.

Contact your Exertis Almo representative for assistance in designing your next AV system or selecting the optimal audiovisual equipment for your project.

The Modern Meeting Room

Our modern meeting rooms are full of the latest technology, but the humans in them are still using the same eyes and ears (interfaces) we were using since we started drawing pictures on cave walls.

Meeting RoomIt would seem to make sense then that we should be designing the room, and the meeting environment, first around the human and then applying the appropriate technology within the boundaries of human factors and ergonomics.

Designing for human factors reduces fatigue and stress, increases comfort, and provides greater user acceptance.  These sound like some pretty good goals for an audiovisual system and where we should first focus our attention.  In other words, we should be designing according to the limitations and needs of people.

So, what does the human need to do?  The human needs to be able to see and not just see but read and comprehend.  The human also needs to be able to hear clearly.  Further, the human needs to be heard clearly and intelligibly to those who are listening regardless of whether the listeners are in the same room or on the far side of a videoconference.

As far as reading and comprehension, there’s an ANSI (American National Standards Institute) standard for this, the ANSI/AVIXA V202 Display Image Size for 2D Content in Audiovisual Systems.  This handy little standard defines content size, image size related to content size, farthest viewer limits, closest viewer limits, and off-axis viewer limits. These limits draw the boundary lines for where to place the humans in physical relation to an image.  And this is within the context of being able to assimilate the content over time without fatigue.  This is not about testing the limits of human vision like with a Snellen chart during an eye exam.  It’s about making sure the humans are comfortable in the viewing environment whether it’s a one-hour meeting or an 8-hour class.  Keep in mind that the content to be comprehended by the viewers may only be a portion of the overall image size and you may need to design for the content portion and not solely the overall image size.  The ANSI/AVIXA V201 Image System Contrast Ratio standard is a companion piece and defines the minimum contrast ratio needed for a good image.  If you’ve done enough system measurements, you know there are way too many projected systems running at a 3:1 contrast ratio.

The human also needs to be able to hear.  While our Acoustic Echo Cancellers (AECs) and Digital Signal Processors (DSPs) have gotten much better at removing steady-state background noise out of the audio being sent to the far side in a videoconference, what about the people trying to communicate with each other in the same room?  Typically, the biggest noise offender is the HVAC system.  For many years now, the American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) has published Design Guidelines for HVAC-Related Background Sound in Rooms in the Sound and Vibration chapters of their Handbooks.  You will find that the maximum background noise in conference rooms and classrooms should be no more than NC/RC 30 (approximately 35 dB SPL A-wtd).  The ANSI/ASA S12.60 Acoustical Performance Criteria, Design Requirements, and Guidelines for Schools agree with the maximum background noise level of 35 dB SPL A-wtd.  Again, if you’ve done enough measurements, you know most spaces fall far short of these criteria.  You can think of this as an acoustic signal-to-noise ratio – the ratio of background noise compared to speech level.

Conference MeetingA close second to the maximum allowable background noise level is the acoustical performance of the space.  This is the actual sound signature of the room, and I can think of nothing more important that is also the least considered or even ignored.  While the trend has been towards glass walls, shiny floors, wood panels and other acoustically “hard” surfaces, these materials are the least friendly when it comes to the acoustical criteria needed for human communication.  Jun Lim recently wrote, “No matter how excellent an audio system is, it cannot surpass the limitations imposed by the acoustic environment.”  The late John Murray once said, “Once the sound leaves the loudspeakers, it’s out in the wild”.  “Acoustically friendly” doesn’t have to mean plain or ugly but aesthetics devoid of acoustical considerations impedes the ability to communicate.

A group of us were in a 42 ft. x 32 ft. conference room in an Experience Center of a well-known audio manufacturer in the Chicago area back in November and I stopped everyone and measured the background noise of the room at RC29.  The room was a delight.  Conversation was easy anda low noise floor helps people to relax because they aren’t having to work to understand what’s being said.  An ambient noise problem is magnified if not everyone is able to communicate using their first language.

A major audio manufacturer did a survey just prior to the pandemic.  The survey revealed that 96% of professionals were frustrated with their virtual meetings and 4 out of the top 5 frustrations were related to audio and that “flawless” audio was four times more important than video.  Two of the top five identified frustrations were background noise and not being able to hear each person.  Unfortunately, most buyers responsible for outfitting meeting rooms will be inundated with the lure of new aspect ratios, ever higher resolutions and other shiny audio and video objects that promise to bring all your meetings into the next dimension.  A proper meeting room should first focus on the criteria required for excellent human communication.  While all of us, myself included, absolutely love the look of the latest technology, getting the room itself right should be the priority.  As Pat Brown once said, “The Cloud won’t fix your room.”

I am betting that the leading cause of “Zoom fatigue” is actually the result of the effort and concentration it takes to try and overcome poor audio issues and improperly sized content.

Selling the latest 64:9 display with 32K resolution along with the newest gamma ray-focused mic array and volcanic loudspeakers does not guarantee a high-performance meeting room.  I would argue that a modern high-performance meeting room is one that is designed considering human factors and comfort and adhering to the standards and references mentioned above.  Make it comfortable and easy for the humans to see and hear and they’ll be free to spend their energy on the topic at hand.Exertis Almo Calculators

If you’re interested in how to work towards implementing an actual high-performance meeting room, reach out to anyone here at Exertis Almo and let us help you make your rooms better than anyone else’s.

To make some of this easier, we’ve developed a new online calculator for image sizes and PAG-NAG that can be very useful: https://www.exertisalmo.com/tools/calculator.aspx

If you enjoyed this blog, you’ll enjoy watching these on-demand, educational webinars hosted by Tom.

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

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