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Emerging Drone Tech in 2024: DJI’s Dock 2

by | Apr 11, 2024 | Drones, Uncategorized

For years, the drone industry has been on a trajectory toward complete autonomy. With DJI’s latest drone tech release, that vision becomes a tangible reality, as their seamless integration of human direction and drone execution brings a new era in efficiency and precision in a variety of applications.

Complete autonomy is a coveted feature within the drone solutions industry, therefore cutting down on labor-intensive manual inspections filled with risks and limitations. Instead, DJI technology can autonomously execute missions, collecting data and reporting back to a command-and-control center, without compromising safety or accuracy.

The latest innovation from DJI – the DJI Dock 2, is built to operate 24/7. The remote drone operation dock houses a Matrice 30, allowing the drone to land, recharge, and execute missions that are programmed through DJI FlightHub 2.

The specific applications that benefit from DJI’s new technology are as vast as they are impactful, specifically in the realm of public safety. From surveillance to search and rescue operations, automated missions are both effective and efficient. Simply put, DJI allows for someone at a computer to instruct the drone to start a mission, complete an inspection, and much more – all from miles away.

M3TD drone techAlong with the new DJI Dock 2, there are two products at the heart of DJI innovation:  the M3D and the M3TD (Matrice 3D/3TD).

The M3D features a powerful zoom camera, tailored for traditional inspection work. Whether surveying cell phone towers for loose screws or identifying broken components, the M3D is a game-changer in the field of infrastructure maintenance.

Furthermore, the M3TD takes thermal imaging to new heights, making it an indispensable tool in public safety initiatives. The ability to detect heat signatures from above is a key component in efficient emergency response scenarios.

Additionally, the DJI Dock 2 boasts a lighter weight than the Dock 1, requiring only 1-2 people to transport the device. The dock also features improved coverage, with a 50-minute maximum flight time.

The future of drone solutions is here and it’s in the palm of your hand – quite literally. We are currently accepting pre-orders for the DJI Dock. Contact your Exertis Almo representative to get started today!

Eric Jameson drones BDM

About the Author

Matt Callari

Director of Sales – Photo, UAV, Retail

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Check out more of our blog pots on Drone Solutions.

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

by | Apr 2, 2024 | Digital Signage, Outdoor AV, Pro Audio, Uncategorized

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.

What Does It Mean to Add Value?

by | Mar 28, 2024 | Uncategorized

While the statement “Adding Value” may seem simple, what does it mean to you?

Adding Value to me means that you are providing your customers with a range of services and add-ons to ensure the proper products are being purchased that will most effectively complete the job/opportunity.

Although many different factors play a role and are essential in adding value, let’s look at my top 4 value-adds.

  1. Always Consider Your Customer’s Perspective.
    • It’s very important that you always try to understand what’s important to your customer or the target market.
    • Always attempt to make it clear as to how your product or service will help your customer overcome obstacles or be able to do their jobs better.
    • Try to avoid focusing on Features and instead focus more on Benefits. By not focusing as much on content or features, it will allow you to focus more on your customer’s needs.
  2. Consistently Work to Improve Customer Satisfaction.
    • While it may be difficult at times, one of the best ways to maintain customer satisfaction is through honest and upfront communication – even if it may not be what your customer wants to hear.
    • Try to make what you are saying as clear as possible to avoid the chance of miscommunication.
    • Avoid leaving your customers without an explanation – especially if things do not go according to plan. If you are transparent with your customers from the start, they will be more open to coming back to you even if something goes wrong.
    • Have regular check-ins with your customers. This will help identify new opportunities, help build trust, and help identify any potential problems that you may be able to help them with.
  3. Develop a Memorable Customer Experience.
    • A memorable customer experience aims to deliver intangible value that cannot be packaged or sold.
    • Visiting your customers and creating a positive experience helps develop a better relationship that goes past simply just getting the sale.
  4. Be Receptive.
    • Taking care of customers goes beyond resolving issues and providing help when something goes wrong. It includes ensuring that your customers feel that they are important to you.
    • A great way to be receptive is with a quick response time and by expressing your appreciation to your customers.
If you enjoyed this blog, you might also like Anthony’s other post: Tips to Effectively Communicate.
Robert Voorhees
About the Author

Anthony Principale

BDM – Brand Specialist

Supported Manufacturers: Epson (SW, W, NW) and Philips

The AV MBA, pt 3: S.W.O.T. It Out

by | Mar 26, 2024 | Business Development, Uncategorized

I was recently asked to prepare a business plan. It is something I really enjoy doing, but not something I do often. In M.B.A. courses, the components of a proto-typical business plan are covered ad nauseam, and there are A LOT of steps to preparing one. Executive Summary, Situation Analysis, Target Markets, Demographics, Trends, Competition, Product Offering, Mix, Forecast, Strategies, Tactics. The list goes on. And on… I’ll be honest, it was great to learn and be exposed to the “generally accepted” principles of building a business plan, but in practice, I only use a handful of them in my role. By far, the S.W.O.T. Analysis is my “go-to.”

Kotler Keller definitions
Kotler Keller illustration close up
Kotler Keller diagram

(Yes, I have kept my old textbooks…)

So why the S.W.O.T.? First, it’s fun to say, “SWOT!” But really, I use it as a tool to help me come up with a systematic, structured approach to making strategic decisions. It can be used in a variety of scenarios outside of the formal Business Plan. Honestly, you could apply the S.W.O.T. to almost any problem or decision in life and it would be helpful.

But I digress, this is an AV blog, not a life coaching session. So how can we apply the S.W.O.T. outside the Business Plan?

Let’s consider the following scenario:

You just met with a prospective client that is considering upgrading their large staff training room to an Executive Conference Center. They have a large projector and 180-inch screen installed currently, and when in use, they have controlled overhead lighting to darken the room and accommodate the projection screen. This is fine for training sessions, but for executive sessions, the room will need to accommodate conferencing and collaboration, so having the lights turned down is not practical. In addition, a new training space will not be added, and the client would still like to be able to use the room to hold trainings when necessary. We need to design a space that includes the necessary technology, furniture, and layout that will accommodate the new environmental demands. Here is how we can apply the S.W.O.T. as a decision-making aid — or S.W.O.T. it out.

Executive Conference Center – Current State

S.W.O.T. Analysis table

As illustrated above, the S.W.O.T. provides a vessel to flesh out the pros and cons in a systematic way, that allows for creative solutions to arise. In this example, the strategy and tactics may look something like this:

meeting room displaysStrategy:

  • Create a high-end, executive conference room that leverages an aesthetically and technologically elevated environment to encourage collaboration and creativity.

Tactics:

  • Replace the existing projection system with a large-format, 21:9 dvLED display to eliminate lighting challenges and accommodate the MS Teams Front Row platform.
  • Install Modular furniture to accommodate several layouts and meeting formats.
  • Commission a Teams compatible video conferencing and unified communications system that includes PTZ cameras and overhead mics to allow for remote participation.
  • Remove window shades to accentuate skyline views and bring in ambient light to elevate the meeting room environment.

This is, of course, a bit of a crude example, but it demonstrates how the S.W.O.T. can be brought into the planning and decision-making process in a myriad of situations outside of the formal business plan.

I appreciate you taking some time out of your day to S.W.O.T. it out with me!

Here is a great S.W.O.T. resource: https://www.investopedia.com/terms/s/swot.asp

Tom Keefe BDM
About the Author

Tom Keefe | CTS, DMC-D-4K, DSCE

Category Manager – dvLED

Supported Manufacturers: Direct View LED

Coach’s Corner | Ep 3, The Art of Mentorship

by | Mar 21, 2024 | Professional Development, Uncategorized

As a self-described Office fanatic, I can always find moments from the show that seem all too real in our careers.  Surely, we have all met a “Dwight” or even worked for a “Michael” and it’s those similarities that keep bringing new fans to the show even though it ended over a decade ago.  While I would love to write an entire blog on my love of the Office, that is not the crux of why we are here.  As I began putting thoughts down for the 3rd installment of “Coach’s Corner,” I had The Office playing in the background and this particular episode gave me the idea to begin writing.  It was Season 6, episode 3, I believe, in which “co-managers” Michael and Jim are tasked with how to choose who to give out raises to when there is not enough to go around to everyone.  As the episode unfolds and Jim’s “reasonable” decisions backfire one after the next, you see Michael and Jim hiding in the office and Michael smiles and says, “I used to have to do these things alone”.  They then share a drink to calm down.  If you really dissect the moment, you might find a hint of respect from Jim to Michael as well as a tad of teamwork from Michael to Jim as they navigate the situation.  To me, that screams MENTORSHIP!  Whether Jim realized it in the moment, he was under the tutelage of Michael and while they didn’t directly acknowledge it in that episode, I think they finally got to that point later on when Michael left the show and Jim admitted he was the best boss ever.
The Office promotion scene
I believe that Mentors can come in many backgrounds and forms,
but they all have 4 Striking Similarities:

  • Relatability
  • Experience/Knowledge
  • Understanding
  • Compassion

As I approach the age of 43, I have several who I consider Mentors.  Brian Rhatigan, who hired a pro AV “unknown” and who not only gave me my initial training but also the reassurance that I was on the right path.  Rob Ziv, who I once complimented as “Audio’s Babe Ruth” and who could’ve easily run in the other direction but instead continued to push me towards bigger things.  Tom Kehr, who will talk my ear off about terminology that is foreign to me, but never shies away from the “teachable moment” and has always said he’s got my back.  Last but not least, John Fuqua.  In the midst of a merger between Exertis and Almo, I gained a teammate that I didn’t know I needed.  I remember immediately looking at John’s Linkedin profile and realizing he had more years of experience than there are days in the month and instantly I knew I was about to learn a thing or two.  In the 2 years since the merger, John, Tom, and myself have teamed up on multiple audio projects, shared opinions, stories, and thoughts as well as a few comical moments along the way.  Whether it be sharing a meal during one of our E4 Experiences or the occasional Zoom message about a project one was working on, I always found myself thinking, “I used to have to do these things alone”.

As we head into the next 25% of 2024, one of my goals is to simply pay it forward.  As I continue to learn from the “Brian”s and “Rob”s and “Tom”s and “John”s of the industry it becomes essential to continue the evolution and pass those learnings off to others even if it’s a quick note about “what not to do” so others don’t follow my same mistakes! Just as important as the mentorship is, there needs to be a willing “mentee”.  Someone who doesn’t hide from those teachable moments I referenced and who shares the same eagerness for self-improvement.  Much like how we might’ve asked inquisitive questions as children, I’m sure I asked John and Tom my fair share of “Why’s?” along the way.  It was their Understanding and Compassion that made it easy.

It is a bittersweet moment as I write this because John Fuqua will soon be retiring at the end of March.  I gave some thought to what an appropriate gift would be, then would get sidetracked by ideas of gag gifts – just to get a laugh out of him.  In 2-year’s time, I’ve learned about DSP’s, Dante, speaker placement, amp selection, room acoustics, mixer control, and so much more simply from being a willing student and John being the Relatable yet Experienced Mentor.  It was quite fitting that at his final E4 Experience in DC, he made sure I was comfortable with the audio setup for the event but made sure to tell me “Facetime me at the next show if needed”.

One of the biggest reasons why I think mentorship is so important is that I feel it’s a logical step in the self-improvement process, not to mention the road to growth and advancement, regardless of which is most important to the mentee.  While I noted the 4 Similarities that a Mentor has, I think there are 3 Traits that every Mentee should possess:

    mentor retirement

  • Willingness
  • Humility
  • Passion

At the very beginning of my pro AV career (and even to this day), I am humbled both by what I know as well as what I don’t know.  Gone are the days when I would be too embarrassed to ask questions, and part of that is due to my mentors being so willing to support my education.  If a mentee has a passion/desire for improvement and growth, then the willingness to learn should follow easily.  However, admitting you could improve is always a good stepping stone!

All of this brings me to the future. John, I promise I will not bother you while you are building hot-rods, milking cattle, or living life on a beach somewhere with your loving family. You were the teammate I needed in the moment and your teachings always were appreciated, even when you would sit back and watch my stubborn self figure something out on my own!  I wish you all the best in the next chapter and will forever be indebted to the discussions you took the time for.

“The delicate balance of mentoring someone is not creating them in your own image but giving them the opportunity to create themselves” – Steven Spielberg 

Enjoy this blog?
Let Rob know over on LinkedIn …and/or connect with #ExertisAlmo on our LinkedIn company page.

Robert Voorhees

About the Author

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

BDM II – Technical Specialist

Supported Manufacturers: Business Communications Services, and Harman: AKG, AMX, BSS, Crown, DBX, JBL, Soundcraft, Martin Lighting

Revolutionizing Return to Work with Microsoft Teams Rooms

by | Mar 19, 2024 | Collaboration, Uncategorized

As we emerge from a world transformed by a global pandemic, the way we work is changing rapidly. Remote work, once thought of as an exception, has become a permanent fixture in the professional landscape, ushering in a new era of hybrid work arrangements that demand innovative solutions. Microsoft Teams Rooms are at the forefront of this transformation, offering a beacon of hope for organizations navigating the uncharted waters of a hybrid work environment.

Remote Work by the Numbers

Forbes collected data and published their findings on remote work in 2023:

  • 7% of full-time employees work from home.
  • 2% work in a hybrid model.
  • 98% of workers want to work remotely at least some of the time.
  • 57% of workers would look for a new job if they couldn’t work remotely.
  • 65% say they want to work remote all the time.
  • 53% of remote workers say it’s harder to feel connected to their co-workers.
  • 32% of hybrid workers report they would take a pay cut to work remotely full time.

Microsoft Teams Meeting RoomThe statistics paint a clear picture – workers prefer remote work. How then do businesses get employees back into the office? The solution is to create an environment that attracts, one where people want to be, one where it exceeds, not just meets, employees’ expectations. How do you do that?

Create an Irresistible Workplace

Today’s office space should reflect the changing needs and expectations of employees. Modern office design is critical to accomplish this. Open, well-lit spaces with ergonomic furniture provide a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere. Huddle rooms also play a significant role. These small, flexible meeting spaces foster collaboration and can be outfitted to fit the needs of the business. Legrand has partnered with Microsoft to create pre-configured designs for Microsoft Teams Rooms. These work for new construction, as well as retrofits, and provide both comfort and inclusivity. No more awkwardly flipping between facing the camera and turning to the table to write something down.

Combine this with MaxHub’s new XT series, and it’s easy for an employee to go into the office, pop into a huddle room, start their meeting, and start getting things done. The tabletop touch screen allows a person to simply press a button and get the meeting started or pull up the whiteboard on a MaxHub ViewPro display and start brainstorming. The XT series is compatible with Extron, so you can even use it to control everything else in the room. Making collaboration and comfort the forefront of huddle room design entices employees to go back to the office by making their lives easier. They have the peace of mind that the additional hurdles of fumbling with wires and dongles to get started is now a relic of the past. They have the opportunity to reestablish that connection with their peers in-person in a space that’s welcoming, while still including those that can’t be there physically. Huddle rooms designed with Microsoft Teams are an essential tool for bridging the gap between remote and in-office team members.

MTR in Other Verticals

These designs aren’t limited to the office. Any place where collaboration happens is an opportunity to enhance the space with a Microsoft Teams Room. Transform a college library meeting room to allow collaboration with distant learners, making them feel more included in the college experience. Set up a huddle room in a house of worship to include those that can’t attend in-person services. Build one in a hospital so doctors can coordinate with specialists across the globe to deliver better patient care.

Delivering positive experiences is essential, whether that be when dealing with customers, stakeholders, or even your own employees. Any place where collaboration happens is a place that can be enhanced with a Microsoft Teams Room. The better the experience, the easier it is to get work done, and the more fulfilling connections people make lead to better outcomes for businesses and better wellbeing for employees. Microsoft is dedicated to that.

Jeff Month Headshot

About the Author

Jeff Month

BDM – Brand Specialist

Supported Manufacturers: MAXHUB

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