I’m sorry to be the one to tell you this, but no one is using those fancy new features that you spent millions of dollars to develop. This is, of course, hyperbole, but it opens up a discussion about one of the biggest issues plaguing the videoconferencing industry.

Let me paint you a picture. You are part of the AV buying team for your company, tasked with improving collaboration in this new age of work. You have to solve challenges like bowling alley views, disconnected teams, and the social awkwardness of holding a meeting across a screen. Naturally, you look for products that have the most innovative new features because the old gear just isn't cutting it anymore.

Quick, Shut It Off

Now let me paint you another picture. I'm an employee at a company that just deployed a new fleet of videoconferencing products. I join my meeting and jump right into the conversation. I’m not super familiar with the technology, so I just consider it a success that I was able to get it started without any hiccups.

On the other side of the call, a few of my colleagues join from a different conference room. The camera has some sort of automatic framing that zooms in on them, but they quickly notice the framing is switching around seemingly with no pattern and they worry it's distracting. A teammate from that conference room quickly fumbles through the touchpanel to turn it off. Phew, now the meeting can actually begin.

That story I just told is not just AV lore that I made up to scare you. That recently happened to me—and it’s not the first time. In fact, I can’t count on two hands how many times I have run into this issue since joining a non-AV industry tech company.

I’m not going to share what platform we were using or what hardware was in the room because, frankly, this is a systemic issue. Companies can point the finger at each other and say this would never happen on their products, but the truth is that no one is immune. In a rat race to be the most innovative, I fear that we, as an industry, have lost track of what truly matters.

I have some thoughts on how we got here, but it needs to be broken down into several pieces. One piece is why industry contenders feel impending pressure to keep churning out the latest and greatest. That one's easy: Buyers are asking for it.

As an AV purchasing decision-maker for your company, the best way to evaluate which products are the best is through a spec sheet war, or by testing a few products and their fancy new features against one another in a controlled setting. The problem is that neither of those methods provides an accurate view of what the product experience will be like for an end user.

High Stakes Video

The second piece of this puzzle has to do with why end users have such a low tolerance for hiccups when it comes to videoconferencing. It doesn't matter how innovative the new features are; videoconferencing is a unique setting where the stakes are higher and a normal amount of messing up is simply not acceptable.

Video calls take place within a finite period of time, most commonly 30 minutes, so time is of the essence. To fit everything you need to within that small window, you need everything to go as smoothly as possible. If you lose five minutes because the technology is doing something weird, you just lost 15% of the time to get done what you needed to get done. For many people, it’s just not worth the risk to try something they don't trust.

Plus, your reputation is on the line. Even if you aren’t the one explicitly disrupting the meeting, it’s your responsibility to resolve the distraction if it's coming from your room. If you struggle to resolve it, it can be embarrassing. Suddenly, it starts to feel like you are the one disrupting the meeting, and all eyes are on you to pull it back together.

Finally, your performance, as well as the ability to accomplish things within your role, affect your livelihood—and video calls are one of the key situations in many roles where the magic happens. Most people probably won’t make this connection consciously, but the subconscious is a powerful motivator and guides your feelings and decision making even when you don’t realize it.

A Matter of Trust

Because of how high stakes video calls can feel, it doesn’t take a lot to lose trust in a new feature. One bad experience is enough to turn you off completely, particularly because most people won’t take the time to figure out why that bad experience happened or how to avoid it in the future. Instead, the easiest path forward is to go back to your trusty old ways; they may not offer the most optimized experience, but they get the job done with minimal hassle.

Where does this leave us as an industry? How can we start to solve this systemic issue? Each stakeholder plays a necessary role in the solution: the videoconferencing vendor, the AV buyer, and the end user.

For the end user, your role is to speak up when things don’t work. It takes only a few minutes to provide feedback to your IT team on your experience, but that can make a world of difference if everyone commits to doing this.

Similarly, AV buyers and IT teams need to be actively absorbing that feedback from end users. Rather than focusing on what company does the best marketing, it’s time to focus on what the end user really wants. And I can almost guarantee what they want is not the latest and greatest, but the most reliable and consistent.

[USB-C Conference Room Connectivity]

And for all you videoconferencing vendors, don’t get caught up in the rat race. Invest time and resources into creating the most reliable technology above all else. At the end of the day, your vision for the future doesn’t matter if no one is willing to participate.

I like to tell the joke that in about a hundred years from now we’ll finally have flying cars, AI robots will be performing surgery, and we’ll all still be debating videoconferencing interoperability. It is the challenge and topic that seemingly just won’t go away.

[Tech Perspectives: The Emperor Has No Clothes]

Users continue to lament that videoconferencing should be just as easy as making a phone call. These comments neglect to consider that telephony was developed under a monopoly (AT&T) that could easily set and enforce the standard dialing and connection rules.

Videoconferencing, while initially pioneered by AT&T, was actually developed for the market by multiple firms that each had a vested interest in maintaining their walled gardens. That is the specific and sole reason that interoperability is so hard to achieve. What is clearly possible (and in fact easy) in today’s labs is prevented by policies and decisions made in the boardrooms of today’s providers.

It is clearer than ever that the videoconferencing industry has experienced immense growth, evolving from clunky, incompatible systems to become an essential tool for global communication and collaboration. However, despite the advancements, interoperability has been the one persistent issue that has continually plagued the industry.

While individual companies often promote open communication and connectivity, the reality is that many still create barriers by locking users into proprietary ecosystems. The demand for seamless cross-platform communication is more critical than ever, but achieving true interoperability has remained elusive.

A History of Incompatibility

In the early days of videoconferencing, the issue of interoperability was particularly pronounced. Companies like VTel, CLI, and PictureTel championed the H.320 standard, intended to enable communication across vendors via ISDN networks. However, in practice, these systems often failed to work smoothly between different brands—and intercompany calls required complex, costly infrastructure such as hardware bridges.

Despite the claims of standards like H.320, each vendor added proprietary enhancements, making true cross-platform communication nearly impossible. Vendors had little incentive to improve interoperability, preferring instead to lock customers into their ecosystems, ensuring they would purchase not only the hardware but often ongoing services and support from a single provider.

One of the most significant moments in the industry’s evolution was the shift from ISDN to IP-based networks in the late 1990s and early 2000s, marked by the adoption of the H.323 standard. While this new standard was designed to support audio, video, and data communication over IP networks, vendors still managed to tweak it for their own devices. Additionally, inter-company IP-based calling now had to deal with firewall restrictions, which again had no industry universal solution. The result was a continuation of the same proprietary issues that plagued the ISDN days—vendors continued to prioritize intra-brand functionality over true interoperability.

[Viewpoint: Hybrid Headaches]

The emergence of the Immersive Telepresence phenomenon around 2006 further highlighted the industry's struggle with interoperability. Cisco became the market leader with their version of this immersive solution. Its HD videoconferencing solution delivered exceptional quality but was a closed system (like most others), only able to communicate with other Cisco TelePresence devices.

Initially, Cisco described this limitation as a “feature” of maintaining high-quality video, and then helped set up extraordinarily expensive exchanges to connect their systems between companies. Eventually realizing the limitations of this model, Cisco began to shift toward more open standards, first employing a Radvision bridge and acquiring Tandberg, a company known for its advocacy of open systems, in 2010. This marked a turning point for Cisco, as it began supporting more cross-brand communication, but the industry overall was still far from achieving full interoperability.

Enter Microsoft

Microsoft took a different approach to interoperability by first backing its own flavor of interoperability, then a standard one based on Web-RTC—a technology that allowed real-time communication directly through web browsers without requiring additional plug-ins or software. This decision, however, created new challenges, as WebRTC was not compatible with traditional videoconferencing standards.

To bridge the gap between Microsoft’s solutions (like Skype for Business and later Microsoft Teams) and other systems, third-party Cloud Video Interop (CVI) solutions were introduced. Companies like Pexip, Polycom, and others developed these solutions within Microsoft-controlled and provided parameters to enable non-Microsoft systems to connect to Microsoft’s platforms. CVI followed the same pattern of allowing basic compatibilities amongst disparate systems, but again could not handle many of the features that existed when one stayed within one brand.

CVI was followed by a strategy called Direct Guest Join. This feature simplified the process of joining meetings across platforms without the need for third-party infrastructure or hardware bridges. Initially, Direct Guest Join allowed users of Microsoft Teams and Zoom to join each other’s meetings with a single click.

Cisco Webex and Google Meet later joined this compatibility circle, extending the range of platforms that could communicate with one another. However, the connections via Direct Guest Join were and still are not universal. Each platform has to permit the specific combination/connection—and not all do. Meanwhile, a third option involves services that either provide a cloud interconnect between differing platforms, or in some cases, provide their own virtual meeting room (VMR).

[On Your Business: Technology Isn't Enough]

What is important to note with all these options is they each have pros and cons—with the cons often being limitations in capabilities, scope, or allowable connections. So, what we essentially have is a total throwback to the early days of H.320 where basic compatibility across brands (or in this case platforms) means severe feature limitations. There is also the concept of what is “allowed” versus “certified,” highlighting that these issues are less technical obstacles than they are an attempt to control the space.

Band-Aids, Not Solutions

In recent years, the industry has seen the number of CVI providers drop for various reasons. Verizon eventually shut down the BlueJeans service it purchased, while Avaya, HP|Poly, and now Cisco for its FedRAMP customers have made agreements with Pexip to leverage its solution. Even Microsoft—typically a stickler for pushing people only to Direct Guest Join—has embraced a more feature-rich offering from Pexip. I’d love to speculate that this means the interoperability wars are coming to an end, but I’m not that naive.

Other firms like Synergy SKY have taken the approach to leverage the available standards of SIP and WebRTC used by the web apps of most modern meeting platforms to enable any SIP-based endpoint to join non-compatible meeting platforms. Its system can provide “one button to join” for scheduled meetings, ad-hoc join by Meeting ID, or manual SIP URI dialing for inviting guests to any meeting. Its focus is to solve interoperability and to provide a consistent user experience for all meetings, not just Microsoft. However, it's a solution for SIP/hardware-based endpoints only.

All the interoperability solutions available are still patchwork Band-Aids to a broader problem. The videoconferencing industry remains fragmented, with many vendors resisting full interoperability to protect the market position of their ecosystems.

Despite the demand for open standards and universal compatibility, true seamless interoperability remains a challenge that the industry has yet to fully address. Or, to put it another way, every manufacturer and platform provider fully supports having one industry standard for videoconferencing, as long as the one is theirs.

Plus, don’t think that once an organization has chosen its preferred video collaboration platform, every use case will conform to that choice. It won’t. Clients, customers, suppliers, and sometimes even internal divisions will still force the best organized and prepared firms to be compatible with multiple flavors of video.

[Editorial: AI Can Help Us All Be Lions]

What is important for end users and integrators is to compare the available interoperability methods and make a conscious choice which method to use well before it is needed. Be sure to verify each of the claims made, because they are sometimes more hype than reality. And, as is always the case in situations like this, your mileage may vary. Now, where is that flying car I was promised by now…

AVT Question: Please share insight into how your company supports AV/IT managers in creating a successful experience.

Thought Leader: Joe Andrulis, Executive Vice President of Corporate Development at Biamp

Two areas where Biamp sees tremendous value for AV and IT managers in creating a successful conferencing experience are, one, through the integration of AI into conferencing technology; and two, offering AV conferencing peripherals in a bundle that is certified to work with the dominant unified communication (UC) platforms, especially Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and Google.

After all, the explosion of IoT devices in the office environment, especially providing more conferencing equipment in the hybrid work era, means IT and AV pros are often tasked with managing an increasingly larger and diversified array of devices with the same internal resource constraints.

Simplify and Speed Commissioning with AI AV and IT managers can now leverage AI to create a high-quality conferencing experience for their users without sacrificing efficiency. One such tool is Biamp Launch, which automatically optimizes and tunes a conference space at the touch of a button, taking what was once a highly specialized function that could take hours or even days to execute, down to minutes. Furthermore, this type of automation also allows for more scale—the ability to do more rooms easily in less time, with less labor, but still allowing for the required customization to ensure an extraordinary experience within each space.

UC-Certified Conference Room Bundles Driving this push for automation is the mass adoption of standardization due to the rise of ubiquitous UC platforms that have radically changed the AV Pro market. To further empower AV and IT managers, Biamp offers conferencing room bundles based on the size of the conference room, offering a mix of AV peripherals including cameras, mics, loudspeakers, and control devices, along with a Lenovo UC host compute—essentially everything required for an effective conference room experience. These bundles are also certified with the major UC providers to make provisioning, installing, and commissioning conferencing rooms as seamless as possible.

Ultimately, the industry is responding to enterprise AV and IT managers to help them implement effective AV conferencing solutions efficiently and conveniently, either through a preferred integrator or by themselves.

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AVT Question: Please share insight into how your company supports AV/IT managers in creating a successful experience.

Thought Leader: Joel Carroll, Executive Vice President of Sales at Mersive Technologies

The future of AV is now and has already migrated to a software-centric approach, which plays a crucial role in assisting our partners and customers in not only installing, but also maintaining an excellent experience for both users and admins. While hardware is still a core component in the solutions we provide as the AV industry, the complete user journey from installation to customer experience is heavily rooted in the quality of the software provided by the manufacturers. 

Mersive Technologies’ Solstice Pods have an extensive life cycle and act as a central hub within the overall ecosystem. Through Solstice Cloud, AV/IT teams can easily deploy features, updates, patches, and more on demand or according to a schedule to minimize network disruption. This approach provides the necessary connectivity, while the user-facing software enhances ease of use and offers advanced capabilities such as video conferencing, wireless collaboration, and AV-over-IP routing.

With Solstice Cloud, all our customers can deploy Pods at scale and have complete control from anywhere. For example, one Mersive customer has successfully deployed 15,000 Pods across 500 different locations via Solstice Cloud. When adding a new Pod to their fleet, they simply plug it into the network, register it, and push a configuration template to the device. It quickly comes online and seamlessly integrates into the space, ready for use.

Additionally, Solstice’s Operational Analytics help AV/IT teams determine how a space is being used for maximizing efficiency. Stephens Institute tells me they use this data to see how their educational spaces are being utilized and to inform and maximize the design of new spaces, whether it’s a lecture hall, study space, or smaller classroom.

Ultimately, successful installations only happen when hardware and software work seamlessly together, at which point “solutions” become “experiences.” Mersive has an exceptional team that helps our customers understand their system goals and develop a plan for deployment. 

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AVT Question: Please share insight into how your company supports AV/IT managers in creating a successful experience.

Thought Leader: Megan Zeller, Senior Director, Business Development at Peerless-AV 

Peerless-AV has remained a trusted partner for AV/IT integrators seeking to create seamless and successful installations, offering comprehensive support to end users to ensure the success of their installations and a commitment to evolving products with cutting-edge technology.

Peerless-AV’s product line reflects a deep understanding of the challenges faced by AV/IT professionals. Engineered with a commitment to user-centric design, Peerless-AV solutions come equipped with features that simplify the integration process. From sleek mounting solutions to adaptable AV components, our products are designed to seamlessly integrate with existing AV/IT infrastructure. 

However, a successful AV/IT installation requires more than high-quality hardware; it demands knowledge and guidance. Peerless-AV provides a wealth of resources, including the Certified Installer Training Program—offering both in-person or online webinar options, as well as detailed installation guides, comprehensive documentation, and instructional videos. This allows users to navigate the installation process with confidence. These resources serve as valuable references and contribute to reducing installation time and minimizing potential challenges.

When challenges arise, having access to reliable customer support is crucial. Peerless-AV takes pride in offering responsive and knowledgeable assistance with queries, troubleshooting issues, providing timely solutions, and more, ensuring that customers feel supported throughout the entire installation journey. Peerless-AV customer service also offers real-time chat with a real person through the live chat tool on peerless-av.com. 

In the rapidly advancing world of AV/IT, staying ahead of the curve is essential. Peerless-AV invests in continuous research and development to deliver products that align with the latest industry standards. By embracing constant innovation, Peerless-AV enables end users to future-proof their installations, ensuring long-term success and adaptability in the face of technological advancements.

As technology continues to advance, Peerless-AV empowers professionals to create successful AV/IT installations with confidence and ease. 

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AVT Question: Please share insight into how your company supports AV/IT managers in creating a successful experience.

Thought Leader: Effi Goldstein, President of the HDBaseT Alliance

With its ability to provide long-range signal extension of UHD AV, USB 2.0, Gigabit Ethernet, 100 watts of power, and control up to 328 feet (100m) over a single Category cable, HDBaseT is already a long-established ally to AV professionals looking to streamline their installations. 

That said, when it comes to the end-user experience, it’s the plug-and-play nature of HDBaseT that truly sets the technology apart. As BYOD continues to proliferate in school learning spaces and conference rooms everywhere, so does the need for fast, simple, and hassle-free connectivity for laptops, tablets, and other mobile devices. Too often, that important meeting or classroom presentation is derailed by an evasive Wi-Fi password, network firewall, and equipment incompatibility. HDBaseT can bypass all these literal barriers to entry with configuration-free simplicity that just works, and a system that’s vastly easier for AV/IT managers to maintain.

Additionally, as USB continues its own rapid adoption rate, I am proud to say the HDBaseT Alliance is already ahead of the curve with our soon-to-be-released HDBaseT-USB3 standard, allowing for high-performance, low-power, long-range USB 3.2 and power distribution. Not only will this advancement provide a more flexible and affordable professional-grade extension for our industry’s fastest-growing interface, but, along with our planned certification program, will also guarantee interoperability of devices regardless of manufacturer.

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AVT Question: Please share insight into how your company supports AV/IT managers in creating a successful experience.

Thought Leader: Joe Chordas, Vice President of North American Sales and Corporate Marketing at ZeeVee

ZeeVee supports AV/IT integrators and end users in creating successful installations in several key ways. We offer the industry’s broadest range of AV signal distribution solutions. Our ZyPer4K 10Gb encoders and decoders are ideal for applications that require uncompressed 4K video distribution with near zero latency.

For those installations where uncompressed 4K video will suffice, our ZyPerUHD60 1Gb models are ideal, especially for Zoom and Teams rooms. They are also future-proofed to connect to, or grow into, a fuller AV infrastructure as the need arises. ZeeVee also supports its partners by maintaining readily available stock for quick shipping, allowing them to complete projects on schedule.

Our ZyPer Management Platform (ZMP)—instrumental in the installation, controlling, and maintaining of our AVoIP encoders and decoders—has long been a key differentiator. In 2023, we further enhanced network security with the release of ZMP 3.x, a major upgrade that stands as the industry’s most secure management interface for network-based AV systems. All users will benefit from the latest version, but particularly those operating mission-critical systems in the government, enterprise, and healthcare sectors. 

Another way we bring value to our partners and end-users is with our high-touch, customer-centric support. This attention to their engineering and system configuration needs provides extreme value—further enabling them to complete projects in a trouble-free and efficient manner. 

Finally, as a founding member of the SDVoE Alliance, we take our responsibility to provide training very seriously. This includes our regular Certified Solution Partner Training webinars, which share best practices for AV and IT professionals installing, maintaining, and expanding AVoIP systems.

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AVT Question: Please share insight into how your company supports AV/IT managers in creating a successful experience.

Thought Leader: Carrie Kaumans, Corporate Channel Marketing Manager at Listen Technologies

Listen Technologies is dedicated to ensuring a seamless and successful installation experience for AV/IT end users. We prioritize a customer-centric approach by providing first-rate technical support with a focus on rapid issue resolution. When a customer contacts us, they are immediately connected to a live and knowledgeable tech professional, eliminating the frustration associated with automated systems. Our commitment to first call resolution means that our experts work diligently to address any concerns during the initial contact.

We recognize the importance of time, and our average wait time of less than 30 seconds underscores our dedication to minimizing downtime for our customers. Whether through phone calls, emails, or real-time chat support during business hours, our customers can expect swift responses. We pride ourselves on responding to most emails within an hour, ensuring that written communication is both timely and effective.

By offering comprehensive support across various communication channels, we empower end users to navigate any challenges they may encounter during installation. Our live, real-time assistance is not just a service, but a partnership in creating a successful installation. Our team’s expertise, coupled with a commitment to efficiency and accessibility, sets the stage for a positive customer experience and a smooth deployment process. At every step, our goal is to exceed customer expectations. 

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AVT Question: Please share insight into how your company supports AV/IT managers in creating a successful experience.

Thought Leader: Gina Sansivero, Vice President of Marketing and Communications at AtlasIED 

As a hardware manufacturer, it is essential for us to support end users throughout the buying journey. As customers consider our products and solutions, we offer multiple touchpoint opportunities for end users to connect with us, often in concert with our integration partners worldwide. Additionally, we’ve created a range of resources to support their decision-making process. 

The process starts in product development, where we conduct customer focus groups and symposiums to receive feedback and ensure we build products with features that solve true challenges our end users face. Once the product ships and is available for purchase, our salespeople are available for consultation directly with end users. We help educate and inform the end users while supporting our integrator partners, who are our sales channel to the markets. During a customer’s research phase, we also provide relevant case studies to reference, and our sales teams help connect new users with existing customers who have used our products. 

We also offer a free system design assistance program to help customers determine the type of products to install to help create the best system option for the environment and users’ needs. For example, end users supply our engineers with project specifics and a floor plan, and then we create a package indicating speaker placement by type, a block diagram level of signal flow, and a material equipment list. 

AtlasIED focuses on training and education through our Academy. Live classes, on-demand tutorials, and self-guided courses for end users and integrator partners ensure that our technologies are understood, and the solutions are fully explained to support design, installation, maintenance, and ongoing support throughout the product life cycle.

From product development to post-sales support and training, there is no finish line once a project is completed. We work with end users long after to ensure they are satisfied with our products throughout their use. 

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AVT Question: Please share insight into how your company supports AV/IT managers in creating a successful experience.

Thought Leader: Sam Kennedy, Senior Director of Product Marketing at Crestron

We spend a lot of time and energy thinking about just that—the end user.

We constantly strive to build products that are incredibly intuitive and easy to use. The design of the hardware, its control layout, the fit and finish—it’s all carefully considered and tested. The idea is that you can touch a Crestron product with zero training, and it will simply work.

Another aspect of our end user support is consistency: It doesn’t matter if your business is standardized on Microsoft Teams, Zoom, or any other platform; we will help to ensure that the user experience is the same in every room of your enterprise, no matter the size.

Furthermore, Crestron is a leader in the field of automation. When one walks into a room that’s been designed using Crestron technology, that room will react intelligently, whatever the task at hand might be. For example, the lights may come up as you enter. Should you begin a call or a presentation, lights, and shading may adjust accordingly. Systems such as our Automate VX multi-camera speaker tracking solution offer automatic framing and optical zoom when a collaborator is speaking, which creates a much better meeting experience for both remote and in-person collaborators—especially as a part of our Sightline package of technology.

There are other support aspects that might not be quite as obvious: We include certain camera features, for example, that either drop a privacy screen over the lens or turn the camera to the wall when a device isn’t in use, offering an extra level of privacy when a meeting ends. 

In short, ease of use, consistency, and automation are in our DNA as an organization—and those factors that positively impact the end user are baked into everything we make.

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AVT Question: Please share insight into how your company supports AV/IT managers in creating a successful experience.

Thought Leader: Pamela Qualls, Chief Operating Officer at Just Add Power

At Just Add Power, we work with integrators to design and install AV-over-IP projects. In those cases, while we don’t connect with the end user directly, there are things we can do to make sure that the end user’s experience is a positive one. First, we make our products work reliably for many years with high-quality audio and video. Our products have a five-year warranty, so while our device failure rate is less than one percent, if there is a transmitter or receiver that doesn’t work, we will replace it quickly and get the system back up and running. Our seamless integration with commonly used control systems ensures that the end user will have a simple interface for source switching and distribution that can be an element of the other automation they have installed at their facility.

On the other hand, we sometimes have large organizations as end users of the products, and they have their own integration teams. Whether we are working with these internal teams or the integrators mentioned above, our technical support is second to none. Our techs are trained in our facility in a multi-year process and rise through levels of expertise as they learn the ins and outs of AV over IP. When an integrator calls our tech support team, they access experts who will help them troubleshoot the whole system—not only the Just Add Power devices. If there’s a problem with the switch, the cables, or a display, our team will do what they can to help identify the issue and solve it, or point the integrator to the source of a solution. We also offer quarterly three-day trainings—with all housing, food, and local transportation paid—to any integrator who would like to develop their AV-over-IP expertise.

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AVT Question: Please share insight into how your company supports AV/IT managers in creating a successful experience.

Thought Leader: Patrick Prothe, Director of Marketing at Audinate 

One of the biggest challenges to any successful AV installation is device interoperability. The primary ways to deal with interoperability issues are (a) the “walled garden” approach—a single-brand universe of products; (b) the establishment of standards, but the standards often don’t provide the implementation or support of the underlying technology; and (c) using a fully supported holistic transport solution developed by a third party. The huge advantage of the third-party solution is that if something goes wrong with the implementation, there’s a company that supports the platform, has a deep understanding of the technology, and wants to help integrators and manufacturers alike.

Audio and video stream synchronization is another challenging area for successful installations. Manufacturers that offer an integrated solution or a single tool for configuration and one-click routing of all audio and video devices solve the common issues associated with synchronization while simultaneously providing unprecedented flexibility in signal routing and simplified system commissioning.

Another aspect of successful installations is the skill set and experience of the integrator, which manufacturer training opportunities can heavily influence. Many manufacturers offer comprehensive training options for in-person and online learning, providing an easy way for system designers, installers, and other industry members to become experienced working with the manufacturer’s products. Some manufacturers offer training at major trade shows for greater convenience. In addition to training, many manufacturers have a rich online library of whitepapers, application diagrams, and technical documentation on their products and APIs.

Additionally, many companies offer professional services, which provide consultants, integrators, and end users with an easy path to access the manufacturer’s technical expertise directly. Professional services teams can help deliver comprehensive system designs and successful deployments, make recommendations for optimizing and managing complex systems, or help resolve complex interoperability issues with third-party devices.

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AVT Question: Please share insight into how your company supports AV/IT managers in creating a successful experience.

Thought Leader: Jill Young, Marketing Manager, IT Channel at Legrand | AV

At Legrand | AV, we have invested heavily in support services at every stage of a project. 

Our Solutions Engineering team consists of experienced AV professionals ready to help clients navigate the design process, provide expert guidance through technical challenges, and research new solutions for unexpected snags during rollouts. This team’s primary mission is to help dealers through the AV design process at no additional cost. They can also jump in at later stages of a project as a set of fresh eyes to ensure an existing AV system design is flawless. 

The Solutions Consulting team, as well as our regional sales team members, are always eager to work with end users by providing walkthroughs and post-installation training so that our IT and AV partners and their end user clients are able to understand and use the full suite of features our AV solutions bring to the table. 

Beyond that, our individual brands also have dedicated services to support end users, including Luxul’s Customer Assurance Program for networking, Chief’s TiLED Solution Services for dvLED installations, and Vaddio’s lifetime support on all their products, to name just a few. All of these services are our way of going beyond the product to provide exceptional AV experiences. 

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AVT Question: Please share insight into how your company supports AV/IT managers in creating a successful experience.

Thought Leader: Thomas Carroll, Group Manager, PIVS Service at Panasonic Connect North America

Live events are booming as consumers crave more immersive experiences. To meet this demand, event teams are integrating projection, camera, audio, and display technologies into museums, concert halls, and immersive art exhibits in truly unique ways. The result is a surge in immersive tech, an industry expected to hit $167.75 billion by 2032. With this growing adoption, event teams need technology partners who provide seamless installation, showtime, and post-performance services. 

Panasonic Connect offers a suite of services in addition to our well-known products, which customers can take advantage of across all stages of an installation. Beginning with the planning process, customers come to us with a vision. Whether working with an existing audiovisual infrastructure or creating a new space, venue, or workflow entirely from scratch, Panasonic Connect brings the right experts to the right solution and recommends the best technologies and software to bring the experience to life. With a growing lineup of industry-specific partners, content providers, and system integrators, we also offer recommendations for third-party solutions to ensure holistic, cohesive ecosystems. It is our role to listen to customers and work closely with our ecosystem of partners, innovators, and integrators to meet customer needs. 

Panasonic Connect’s hands-on services extend to the installation process. With many venues struggling to find skilled tech workers, Panasonic Connect offers on-site installation support. With this service, Panasonic engineers assist and support the installation team while simultaneously training event staff on how to use the technologies. This closes the skills gap for in-house audiovisual teams for seamless future operations. 

Even when an installation is complete, Panasonic Connect offers 24/7 remote monitoring capabilities, which gives our engineers alerts should on-site technical problems arise. Engineers can remotely access the device’s software to evaluate the issue and address it immediately or, if needed, relay the information back to the event team to set up a time to come on-site. 

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AVT Question: Please share insight into how your company supports AV/IT managers in creating a successful experience.

Thought Leader: Paul Beals, Sales Engineer, Northeast at Atlona

We will always support the end customer in the most practical way possible. Sometimes, there are circumstances that prevent us from speaking directly to the end user. In those cases, we take extra care to make sure that the dealer or integrator working directly with the end user has a complete understanding of what Atlona’s technology will bring to their facilities. We find that it’s more productive when we can accompany the partner. This allows us to gather input from the installers as well as the end users and/or technology managers who will operate and maintain the systems. 

We start with the basic questions of what purpose each room will serve, and who the true end users of the installed equipment will be. This helps us determine the comfort level that users will have with technology, so we can make decisions that will appeal to the environment. For example, the presence of an on-site technology manager means that we can design a more interesting system to serve more applications. That is particularly beneficial if the design is for a multi-purpose space. Then there are the more granular elements to consider, including potential sightline intrusions and room oddities that can affect the user experience. We also need to understand if people with visual or hearing impairments will use the space.

Once the design is complete, we consider what training services, if any, are required based on the complexity of the system. A multi-camera system that integrates a wealth of third-party equipment may require more training services, and may require that the installer partners with a programmer to ensure that everything works together. Post-installation, we assist with adjustments or add-ons if and as required, based on user feedback. Ultimately, we all want to make sure that the end user’s experience is as good as possible.

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AVT Question: Please share insight into how your company supports AV/IT managers in creating a successful experience.

Thought Leader: Mark Bonifacio, Director of Business Management, Professional Display Solutions at Sony Electronics

Sony’s philosophy is to solve customers’ pain points and be a strong partner to the industry through education, alignment with other leading companies, and direct interaction with customers—end users, resellers, distributors, the channel, integrators, or consultants. We’ve taken a very deliberate approach, working hand in hand with our Pro AV community to design, develop, and enhance both our products and our outreach based on their needs and feedback.

We’re focused on making Sony products easier to inform, spec, and integrate through engagement efforts such as our ACE (architects, consultants, and engineers) Portal. This provides critical assets and knowledge, including BIM (building information management) content, CAD drawings, and Revit files, as well as technical information, configurator tools, webinars, and case studies. Sony remains committed to our end users beyond the point of sale. This is demonstrated through our regular Tech Tuesday series of webinars, taking a deeper dive on some of Sony’s latest technologies and offering our community an open forum to learn and ask questions. Additionally, the RV on AV video series is focused on thought leadership and trending topics in the market. 

Support is also shown through our continual updates and improvements through initiatives such as free firmware updates and license upgrades, which bring new functionality to products and solutions and let them grow as a customers’ needs develop. We pride ourselves on building strong, continued relationships with our end users and integrators, checking in to make sure their technology is working hard and meeting their needs. We appreciate the chance to see our customers and spend time with them in their space, as well as at industry and Sony-sponsored trade shows and events. Sony also takes care to shine a spotlight on customers through case study and marketing opportunities, strengthening relationships whenever the opportunities arise.

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AVT Question: Please share insight into how your company supports AV/IT managers in creating a successful experience.

Thought Leader: Rob Moodey, Manager of Strategic Partnerships at Matrox Video

Matrox Video recognizes the importance of supporting AV/IT installations to ensure success for our customers—the manufacturers and integrators that supply, spec, and design those installations. They are successful when the end users are successful. Our commitment to facilitating seamless installations encompasses several key elements.

First, our products are renowned for their user-friendly design, both for hardware and software. Our customers consistently praise the simplicity and reliability of our offerings, emphasizing that they “just work.” This ease of use enhances the overall user experience and contributes to the success of installations.

In addition to providing top-notch hardware, we go the extra mile by offering valuable software, APIs/SDKs, and customization tools—all free of charge. This added value extends beyond the initial purchase. With this comprehensive suite of resources, our customers have the power to continually optimize their AV/IT setups.

Our dedication to customer support is unparalleled. Our support team goes above and beyond to assist both existing and potential customers. We also provide support services at no extra cost.

Recognizing the challenges associated with hardware replacement in mission-critical environments, we prioritize a long product life cycle. We not only design our products for durability, but we support them for an extended period. This ensures that our customers can rely on their installations without the disruption of frequent hardware changes.

Furthermore, we advocate for open standards, believing that the flexibility to choose among the best available options maximizes value. This approach not only facilitates smooth installations but also allows our customers to select the most suitable components for their specific needs.

Our comprehensive support for AV/IT installations revolves around user-friendly products, added value through free software and support services, a commitment to extended product life cycles, and a dedication to open standards for optimal customization.

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AVT Question: Please share insight into setting up an esports program within higher education at any level, including the technologies that make a difference and the elements that create an immersive experience for athletes and spectators alike.

Thought Leader: Carrie Kaumans, Corporate Channel Marketing Manager at Listen Technologies

Assistive listening systems play an important role in creating immersive experiences for esports athletes and spectators. Assistive listening systems can support athletes and spectators with chronic or situational hearing loss by filtering out ambient noise and delivering audio from games and commentators directly to listeners’ ears via earbuds or headphones connected to receivers. Audio over Wi-Fi assistive listening systems let listeners use their personal smartphones as receivers, so there’s no equipment to check out or return. They simply download a free app on their smartphone, select a channel, and listen to clear, intelligible audio in their ears. If they wear Bluetooth-enabled hearing aids or cochlear devices, they can stream audio from their smartphone to these devices. 

Assistive listening systems help players and fans overcome the challenges of hearing loss, distance from the audio source, background noise, language, and acoustics that can make hearing difficult, detract from the gaming experience, and prevent participants from fully engaging in esports.

When selecting an assistive listening system for esports, consider who will be using the technology. Do they prefer to borrow equipment or BYOD? Select a system they are likely to use.

Also consider the unique challenges of the space. The esports arena in the Digital Creative Lab at the University of Southern California (USC), for example, is enclosed, and there is a collaborative space adjacent to the arena. To ensure everyone in the collaborative space can experience what is happening inside the enclosed arena, USC selected an audio-over-Wi-Fi assistive listening system. Spectators can follow the action by streaming the audio from the gaming and the instructor in the esports arena. Gamers and spectators with hearing loss can also use the streamed audio for assistive listening.

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AVT Question: Please share insight into setting up an esports program within higher education at any level, including the technologies that make a difference and the elements that create an immersive experience for athletes and spectators alike.

Thought Leader: Jeff Schneider, Director of Sales, Northeast and Mid-Atlantic Regions at Digital Projection

Like any sporting event, watching the action unfold on a big display makes the experience more immersive and engaging for spectators. At the same time, it provides athletes a way to demonstrate their skills to fans and peers. Nothing handles this application better than a dvLED video wall. It can be scaled to any size, customized to any aspect ratio, and configured to display multiple windows of game play at once. A dvLED is also highly versatile and integration friendly, which enables it to function as both a display for gaming, as well as digital signage for upcoming events, scores, and streaming media from on- and off-premise components. The multi-functional dvLED video wall can juggle diverse applications with ease and without any compromise in brightness or resolution. Another huge perk for esports applications is their low latency. This precludes any lag during intense, action gaming for smoother, more enjoyable and competitive gameplay. 

Like any large-format display, proper design is paramount to the performance of a dvLED video wall. Lighting, the physical space, usage, applications, and electrical requirements are variables that can impact the image quality and viewing experience of a dvLED video wall in an esports facility and should be carefully considered before installation. Aligning with a manufacturer that offers comprehensive design and tech service and support on the job site can streamline this process and ensure optimal results. Also keep maintenance in mind. Replacement of individual modules comprising an dvLED display of heavy usage is not uncommon. Be sure spare parts are readily available and can be shipped quickly for minimal interruption in the esports action. 

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AVT Question: Please share insight into setting up an esports program within higher education at any level, including the technologies that make a difference and the elements that create an immersive experience for athletes and spectators alike.

Thought Leader: Daniel Evans, Senior Vice President of Sales at Magnifi

Competition in the esports industry is growing, and sponsors and fans are looking to engage with gamers and teams through more immersive and action-oriented experiences. One of the major advancements is AI-driven tools, which provide gamer creators and developers with rapid scalability, automation, and real-time and intuitive features, making it easier to create high-quality and visually engaging gameplay footage and sports highlights. This allows content producers, developers, streamers, or esports teams to focus on game strategy rather than the laborious tasks of editing and post-producing hours of gameplay footage.

There are also opportunities for AI to address the rapidly growing localization market, allowing creators to reach a larger and more diverse global audience with translated content. AI-drive algorithms can help creators generate living-world environments that are expansive, respond to players’ actions, and provide a fully immersive experience.

AI-driven tools also provide advances in marketing strategies and tactics, creating more monetization opportunities through automated branding and cross-channel publishing, among others. As fan bases desire more personalized and engaging experiences, global marketers are paying attention to the way AI can help them optimize their campaigns, create customized content, and build relationships in the esports and gaming communities. AI algorithms also offer predictive analysis for market and data insights and user behavior.

AI has applications for use across the entire esports production process, from generating content to creating non-player characters (NPCs) with humanlike intelligence—all ultimately driving sports and fan engagement. AI use cases in the esports industry are vast, driving the industry to new heights and providing unique and immersive gaming experiences to players at every turn and on every device. AI’s ability to automate repetitive tasks, analyze large amounts of data faster than humans, and streamline processes makes it a true game changer that is reshaping the way games are developed, experienced, and enjoyed.

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AVT Question: Please share insight into setting up an esports program within higher education at any level, including the technologies that make a difference and the elements that create an immersive experience for athletes and spectators alike.

Thought Leader: Justin Strazdas, Product Marketing Manager, Video and Production at Roland

Esports is highly dependent upon the competitor’s reaction time, so while having the latest and greatest graphics card in their system can be a priority, it goes far beyond that with the range of peripherals required. For example, a monitor with low “input lag” is a critical component for split-second win-or-lose situations. They also need a mouse that suits the comfort and style of the player; some need to try several different models before they find one with the response and sensitivity they require to compete. And audio can make or break a competition if their opponent’s footsteps are lost in the mix. For that, there are audio mixers designed to deliver optimized EQ frequency adjustment and headsets that provide accurate sound fields. While there are many more pieces like keyboards and chairs that are necessary for long-term success, ultimately it comes down to the fans who make this industry a reality.

For them, immersive experiences within esports events rely on so many areas of technology to work, and it’s fascinating to see how quickly it has evolved in step with audiovisual and broadcast workflows. LED walls are installed in so many competitive spaces now, with creative panel layouts that not only provide magnified gameplay for spectators, but also assets like live statistics, game maps, and dedicated camera shots for each player. Video switchers are increasingly capable of handling the video sources required to provide a memorable experience for in-house and streaming audiences, with automation tools that are critical for executing complex show cues. I think the next frontier is gamification, as it presents many new ways to increase audience participation, reward fandom, and bring the community even closer to the experience. The idea that fans could collectively change the course of a competition is an exciting possibility.

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AVT Question: Please share insight into setting up an esports program within higher education at any level, including the technologies that make a difference and the elements that create an immersive experience for athletes and spectators alike.

Thought Leader: Keri Manasa, Regional Director, Solutions and Consultants Team at Legrand | AV

Universities looking to construct esports arenas need to work on a business case that includes multi-use capabilities. A stellar example of an esports arena doing all the right things is The Fortress at Full Sail University in Orlando, Florida. They retrofitted an existing structure and built in flexibility to tackle anything from one-to-one or team-to-team competitions as well as graduation ceremonies and everything in between. 

They made room for that flexibility by adding T-trusses throughout the space to mount digital signage and speakers at virtually any weight capacity. This allows them to adjust the configurations to best suit the viewing experience for that particular match. 

One way they were able to target their budget dollars was to forego adding 4K or 8K capabilities. Most of the audience is watching the streams through tablets or smartphones, which are not 4K or 8K ready. For the price jump to accomplish 4K, they did not see the expected benefit. By eliminating this cost, they answered the needs of their current audience and took those budget dollars to invest in power and all the fiber connections they needed. A trench was dug into the floor to provide ample room to run power and cable.

As a side note, their rack room had limited space behind the racks, so they installed a garage door in that hallway for maintenance access and ventilation during gameplay. This sort of forethought showcases the type of out-of-the-box thinking that an esports project can require. 

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AVT Question: Please share insight into setting up an esports program within higher education at any level, including the technologies that make a difference and the elements that create an immersive experience for athletes and spectators alike.

Thought Leader: Jared Darensbourg, National Live Events Manager at Panasonic Connect

Esports is the fastest-growing sport in the world right now, estimated to surpass $10 billion in the next few years. And while sporting venues and arenas have their eyes on this growth, a more untraditional candidate, universities, do too. With admissions rates declining, universities have struggled to recruit the next generation of students. Esports offers a new channel to pique the interest of potential admits. However, it’s one thing to create an arena. It’s another to attract students, generate buzz, and keep players and viewers coming back for more. The right technology is the key differentiator.

One challenge that universities face when developing esports arenas is room. Often, they don’t have the space to create massive stadiums and therefore need to repurpose empty lecture halls, theaters, or gyms. In these cases, it’s important that AV teams incorporate immersive elements to best optimize the space and create a spectator-style venue. Projectors offer detailed, sharp, color-rich images that create the look and feel of a high-end esports arena. Projectors can also be used to project live streams of games, so players and viewers can easily watch and participate in the action from afar.

Yet live streams bring on new challenges too. For larger programs, there’s often multiple games happening at once, requiring audiovisual teams to seamlessly switch between different participants to keep audiences invested. To minimize setup, streamline workflows, and reduce the number of on-site personnel needed, AV teams can invest in live production platforms to easily switch between streams from one location to another. With ST 2110 capabilities, teams can be completely remote and choose to use PTZ cameras for on-site filming, with Ethernet to send streams back to control rooms.

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AVT Question: Please share insight into setting up an esports program within higher education at any level, including the technologies that make a difference and the elements that create an immersive experience for athletes and spectators alike.

Thought Leader: James O’Hagan, Vice President of Education Innovation at LeagueSpot

In recent years, the educational landscape has witnessed a significant shift towards integrating scholastic gaming and esports across all grade levels. This evolution reflects a broader recognition of the educational potential inherent in digital play. Schools, libraries, and child-focused organizations are still in the early stages of crafting secure, walled gardens of digital play, tailored specifically for their youth communities.

These digital environments offer more than mere recreation; they are spaces where game titles align with the values and objectives of their stakeholders. This careful selection ensures that the content resonates with educational goals, wrap-around supports can be included, and promotes a balanced blend of enjoyment and learning.

One key aspect of these digital playgrounds is their focus on protection. By establishing exclusive spaces for children and adolescents, educators and administrators can shield young users from external influences that might not align with their community’s ethos. This safeguarding is critical in an era where digital exposure is ubiquitous, yet often unregulated.

Moreover, these platforms serve as fertile grounds for honing skills vital for the future. Participants engage in collaborative problem-solving, strategic thinking, and digital literacy, all within a framework of structured play and positive adult interaction. Such environments also foster inclusivity, enabling students from diverse backgrounds to interact and learn in a shared digital space.

The role of audiovisual technology in these initiatives cannot be overstated. High-quality AV solutions are pivotal in creating immersive, engaging experiences that captivate young minds. As educators and technologists, our task involves not only providing the hardware but also understanding the dynamics of digital play in educational settings.

As this trend gains momentum, it is imperative for AV professionals to stay abreast of the evolving needs of educational institutions. This involvement can make a substantial difference in how effectively these digital playgrounds serve their purpose, thereby shaping the future of education in the digital age.

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AVT Question: Please share insight into setting up an esports program within higher education at any level, including the technologies that make a difference and the elements that create an immersive experience for athletes and spectators alike.

Thought Leader: Michael Tuohy, Technical Support Manager, Just Add Power

The explosion of esports has caused ripple effects in the AV integration industry. Live audiences—numbering annually in the millions—have continued to grow yearly, with typically double-digit percentage point increases. With this surge in engagement, there is a growing need to leverage today’s signal distribution technology. AV over IP has become a go-to option to link gamers to the audience, allowing for a rewarding and immersive experience.

When distributing game video for a live or streaming audience, choosing a product that offers visually undetectable latency is of paramount importance. Seconds can be the difference between victory and defeat in a competitive environment. Audience immersion is lost when the spectator is a beat behind the gameplay due to high latency.

Quality is the next focus. Users and the audience want to see the detail and immense color range of modern gaming platforms. A fuzzy, washed-out picture or unclear audio will simply not suffice. Fidelity to the original content must be respected to ensure that details are not lost. When selecting equipment, look for 4K60 resolution with HDR10/ Dolby Vision, deep color support, and multichannel audio.

The final key tenets are scalability and reliability. Systems must be able to span large venues, accommodate creative device placement, and support flexible system sizing. Once installed, the system needs to work reliably; nothing breaks immersion faster than dropped video frames or lost audio. Make sure your chosen equipment is battle-tested and has robust support engineering available to back you up.

Focusing on these performance categories when selecting an AV-over-IP solution and applying creative energy to system design will ensure your esports program has an AV distribution system that will immerse gamers and spectators in the experience, and fuel growth in this exciting industry, for years to come.

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AVT Question: Please share insight into setting up an esports program within higher education at any level, including the technologies that make a difference and the elements that create an immersive experience for athletes and spectators alike.

Thought Leader: Heather Blair, Senior Account Manager, Esports, LG Business Solutions

As a result of growing esports popularity, an increasing number of schools are launching esports clubs and competition teams as extracurricular activities for a broad range of students. Knowing that only 54 percent of students participate in traditional sports, educators have come to appreciate the surging popularity of gaming among youth. As of 2022, 175 universities have joined the National Association of College Esports (NACE), many of which initially became involved through student-run clubs that eventually joined organized, competitive leagues. As the competition heats up and attracts ever-larger investments and public attention, the number of participating schools is likely to continue growing.

In order for fledgling esports programs to deliver meaningful student experiences, they must first evaluate and consider whether their existing computer gear and infrastructure are sufficient to perform at a competitive level. These games typically require up-to-date gaming PCs with powerful graphics cards, while high-quality monitors and peripherals can greatly boost player effectiveness thanks to higher picture quality and brightness, better contrast, clearer communication with teammates, and highly responsive input devices. 

Some programs—particularly at middle schools and high schools—have succeeded in repurposing existing equipment and spaces to provide a cost-effective opportunity without encountering opposition. While esports is indeed growing quickly, there can still be obstacles—particularly at the K-12 level—in attaining funding and support from the school boards and administrators responsible for student and community needs. 

Institutions that want to address the widest swath of student interests and attract diverse student populations are helping put esports on an equal footing with traditional sports. Through the rise of scholarships, famous student players, and even fortunes made possible by allowing student athletes to sign sponsorship deals, it’s clear that esports has become an important campus activity and will continue to be an enrollment driver as the industry matures.

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AVT Question: Please share insight into setting up an esports program within higher education at any level, including the technologies that make a difference and the elements that create an immersive experience for athletes and spectators alike.

Thought Leader: Mark Boyadjian, Senior Customer Solutions Engineer at Neutrik

Whether you are new to esports and gaming or regularly compete, manage, broadcast, or produce events—esports have become an undeniable global phenomenon. With numbers in viewership and attendance eclipsing traditional pro sports, the pace of growth requires an experience for athletes and spectators that rivals the biggest musical act concert tour.

Unlike traditional sporting events where the game field is supported by large and small displays around the field or venue, in esports the displays are the game field. Making sure that the gaming equipment on the competition stage is designed to be reliable for the competitors, with low-latency signal chains, is the minimum requirement.

Once the gaming field is set for maximum performance, we need to provide what the players see and do to the live audience and streaming viewers—not just a video feed, but an immersive experience that lets everyone feel like they are part of the competition. To succeed in this endeavor, there are design considerations: available budget, the size of the venue, from where attendees will view the action, broadcast booth location(s), secondary entertainment, food vendors, gamer art and gaming gear vendors, and available network speed—inside and outside of the venue—for streaming and social media interaction. Together, the answer to these questions defines what the athlete and fan experience will be.

If you are reading this and shaking your head at the complexity of creating such an experience, realize that there are industry professionals for each facet of live gaming events. If this will be an installed system for a school or esports venue, a systems integrator will be a great place to start. If this is a temporary or rental space, contact your local AVL rental house. Companies that manufacture the equipment used in esports spaces are also a terrific and typically free information resource for making sure the event has what it needs to be a success. 

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AVT Question: Please share insight into setting up an esports program within higher education at any level, including the technologies that make a difference and the elements that create an immersive experience for athletes and spectators alike.

Thought Leader: Jeanne Lewis, Senior Manager, Partner Marketing and Events at Sony Electronics

Technology is playing a pivotal role in creating more sensory and immersive engagement for esports athletes and fans—from playing to viewing. In order to set up a comprehensive and captivating program for venues, athletes, and spectators, you need to plan for and implement the latest innovations. Visually, POV cameras, like Sony’s SRG-XP1, are enabling unobtrusive access to players and capturing every angle of a tournament to provide equity for participants and viewers alike. In stadia, high production values are an expectation and professional-grade camera equipment that features elements such as the “cinematic look,” full-frame sensor technology and lenses, Super35mm sensors, high frame rate and other techniques often used in broadcast sports, can elevate esports events. Drones such as Sony’s Airpeak can capture crowds and athletes from the air to amplify the excitement and offer new vantage points. 

Large-format consumer gaming monitors, including Sony’s INZONE, help engross players, while professional displays like Sony’s pro BRAVIAs provide a wide viewing angle to accommodate spectators with detailed visuals and outfit a stadium’s retail spaces, quick service restaurants, wayfinding and digital signage needs. Projectors with high refresh rates can be used to display all of the fast-moving content. From an auditory standpoint, headsets such as Sony’s INZONE, which provide 360 Spatial Sound for gaming, are an essential part of an esports setup. Top-tier audio and microphones and accurate sound positioning can provide a player or spectator with the necessary spatial awareness to make them feel as if they’re a part of the game. With all of the different pieces of technology required for the most engaging experience, programs should consider a provider who can help them create a connected and efficient ecosystem that is a win for integrators, venues, players, and fans.

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AVT Question: Please share insight into setting up an esports program within higher education at any level, including the technologies that make a difference and the elements that create an immersive experience for athletes and spectators alike.

Thought Leader: Mario Ponce, Senior Specialist of Market Development at Shure

From the livestream to the on-stage opposition, a successful Esports production requires uninterrupted, pristine audio to ensure competitors can communicate effectively and spectators don’t miss a split-second of the action, no matter if they are tuning in from home or the live audience.

To determine which audio equipment is required to sound extraordinary, first think strategically about the scale and layout of your esports facility, be it a fully equipped stadium or a bring-your-own-device LAN gaming center. Do you plan on creating a multi-purpose space that can adapt to users’ needs and different styles of competition? If so, you’ll likely find value in investing in both wired microphones and a wireless microphone system to accommodate this flexibility. You’ll also want to be certain you can support enough channels of audio to suit the needs of your space, post-match interviews, and large competitions.

In most scenarios, each competitor should be equipped with an individual microphone. A dynamic microphone with a cardioid polar pattern should be prioritized, as this will be the most effective at isolating the voice while rejecting background noise from other competitors and an audience. You will want to consider the microphone connection: Does it support XLR, direct-to-computer USB, or both? A microphone with both an XLR and USB output allows competitors to send their audio directly into their stream from their computer, while your audio engineer can simultaneously run the audio through front-of-house. 

Additionally, a wireless microphone solution provides an ideal solution for hosts, live commentary, and post-match interviews. Take the time to talk to specialists who can point you in the right direction, as there are multiple factors to consider that might not seem immediately apparent. To get the most out of this investment, it pays to think through how your facility will grow and just how scalable your wireless system will need to be.

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AVT Question: Please share insight into setting up an esports program within higher education at any level, including the technologies that make a difference and the elements that create an immersive experience for athletes and spectators alike.

Thought Leader: Dan Holland, Marketing Manager at IHSE USA

The ability to obtain, gather, process, and distribute information effectively is key to gaining operational superiority. Many system designers have found KVM display management system (DMS) switching to be an effective means to streamline data access while maintaining an important level of security and data quality. System designers moving toward UHD video are depending on standards bodies to reduce the confusion surrounding the latest 4K and 8K technology. 

Emerging markets are taking advantage of DMS as well, including esports for tournament production. Attended by thousands of spectators in large venues and watched by millions online, these live events combine two production workflows: in-venue presentation and broadcast transmission. DMS KVM extenders and switches streamline both by controlling, switching, managing, converting, and delivering video and audio signals. In the venue presentation workflow, extenders provide the interconnection between player monitors and remotely located gaming computers, offering visually lossless video and instant interactive response to deliver the level of performance players’ demand.

For observers, DMS switches allow operators to instantly choose between live and recorded content for playout on massive screens above the players’ stage. In the broadcast workflow, switches enable production teams to create programming of the highest quality throughout the event, while extenders perform the vital function of translating between computer and broadcast frame rates, ensuring that live content is transmitted and replayed in pristine quality.

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AVT Question: Please share insight into setting up an esports program within higher education at any level, including the technologies that make a difference and the elements that create an immersive experience for athletes and spectators alike.

Thought Leader: John Hulen, Director of Channel Marketing, Education at Crestron Electronics

When considering the AV technology used for esports, choosing technology that introduces low or nearly zero latency into the signal paths is one of the fundamental factors. The quality of the video and audio processing, routing, and signal distribution will directly impact the playing and viewing experience. Crestron has created the DM NVX platform of AV-over-IP encoders and decoders, which work on standard gigabit Ethernet networks with less than one frame of latency and incorporate high-quality audio which is just as important as the video image. 

There are three common types of esports spaces: labs, training venues, and competition arenas. Each type of space will have different requirements to provide the most immersive experience for athletes and spectators.

Esports labs often require integration for USB peripherals and extension, point-to-point or source-to-display interaction, and the ability to scale. Whereas training venues incorporate additional control needs like coaches reviewing videos of players’ techniques and strategies. This flexibility enables a coach to highlight a single athlete’s play on one or several displays during a practice and then the ability to quickly reconfigure the room into a learning space. Finally, esports arenas encompass most, or all, of the above technology, along with further features such as video walls, audio routing, a shout casting booth, the ability to switch between multiple cameras and integrate streaming, as well as advanced control functionality. 

No matter the space type, intuitive touch screen controls are invaluable because many of these spaces will be set up, monitored, and managed by student workers or used when full-time employees might be away from campus. The experience is paramount in these venues and having a space that is easy to manage allows the technology features to shine. 

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AVT Question: Please share insight into setting up an esports program within higher education at any level, including the technologies that make a difference and the elements that create an immersive experience for athletes and spectators alike.

Thought Leader: Jarred Halenkamp, Sales Engineer at Absen

DvLED (direct-view LED) technology, when integrated by industry leaders like Absen, is essential in the world of esports and has the potential to transform esports events into unparalleled experiences. Absen, as a renowned manufacturer of LED display solutions, has played a pivotal role in advancing the esports landscape. Their cutting-edge displays offer superior visual performance, boasting high resolution, fast refresh rates, and vibrant colors. This level of visual clarity and precision provides a competitive advantage to players, enabling them to make quick, accurate decisions in the heat of the game.

DvLED displays not only enhance the player experience but also offer remarkable benefits to spectators. These displays can create captivating, expansive video walls, immersing the audience in the gaming action. This immersive environment can convert casual viewers into passionate fans, driving engagement and fostering growth in the esports community. We should be committed to providing a dynamic and captivating experience for spectators.

DvLED technology offers a high degree of flexibility in display configurations. Players and teams can have customized setups that cater to their specific needs and preferences, promoting player comfort and peak performance. Moreover, dedication to responsible sourcing and energy-efficient design ensures a more sustainable approach to dvLED technology, mitigating the environmental impact.

In summary, leadership in the esports world demands a deep understanding of the necessity and transformative potential of dvLED technology, especially when partnering with industry innovators like Absen. By providing players with the best tools, creating an immersive experience for spectators, and embracing responsible technology, dvLED can be the catalyst for a positive change in esports events, solidifying its position as the premier entertainment experience in the digital age.

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AVT Question: Please share insight into display technology trends, new form factors, and applications.

Thought Leader: Joel Carroll, Executive Vice President of Sales at Mersive Technologies 

Collaboration components and software are moving beyond their original intent to interoperate holistically as part of a larger solution to supercharge both the display and the in-room experience. If the result is seamless, it can create deep engagement and increase return on the objective—not just investment. Collaboration platforms like Mersive Solstice that integrate with third-party digital signage providers and allow customization of the signage experience are a great example of this amplified experience in both corporate and higher-education facilities. 

We have one large higher education customer that uses Solstice in lecture halls, huddle spaces, and open spaces campus-wide. Rather than those displays remaining dormant when not in use, Solstice’s digital signage capabilities enable them to deliver valuable information and consistent messaging via what is essentially a customizable web page. News, advertisements, events, and other kinds of information appear as a scroll at the top of each display all over campus. Then, when it’s time to collaborate in a huddle space or learn from a professor in a lecture hall, the display becomes part of the collaboration ecosystem. Additionally, deep analytics inform the staff on how each room is being used and inform decision-making around how to deploy collaboration technology in additional rooms or adjust current spaces to make more efficient use of the space. 

Pushing the capabilities of digital signage even further, facilities can make spaces responsive to in-room sensors, leveraging digital signage in completely new ways with pages that are deployed when someone enters the room. This opens up huge possibilities for users to brand their displays and customize experiences for their audience. Repurposing a display to show interactive content isn’t about reallocating resources, it’s about using sensory-aware technology to serve up the exact message you want to give.

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AVT Question: Please share insight into display technology trends, new form factors, and applications.

Thought Leader: Sean Matthews, Chief Executive Officer at Visix

We continue to see the digital signage ecosystem evolve in new and exciting ways. Across every vertical, adopters have embraced the knowledge that digital signage is no longer confined to traditional displays. Every screen can now be an endpoint for a digital signage network.

Digital signage software suppliers have stepped up their innovation cycles to help organizations reach people across these many platforms. Hybrid workplace models have fundamentally changed employee engagement, and businesses have increasingly adopted digital signage to provide consistent messaging—over company intranet websites, smartphones, and even conferencing software solutions—to build a better employee experience.

The employee experience also ties into a critical new piece of the digital signage ecosystem: space booking and management solutions. While meeting room signs have existed for decades, the focus has shifted to bookable spaces. We now see interactive solutions that allow people to book any shareable asset or space, with the ability to integrate with existing calendar systems. These solutions should be considered part of the overall employee experience.

The success of any digital signage strategy ultimately correlates with its effect on the audience experience. Whether it is the employee experience, the university visitor experience, or the customer experience, audiences today expect screens to be lively and interactive. Without strong audience engagement, the digital signage strategy will fall short. 

Digital signage software innovators are helping their customers rise to the occasion, providing easy-to-use content creation tools and managed services to develop compelling interactive experiences. While “interactive” brings visions of touchscreens, there are other ways to create memorable interactive experiences. Consider adding QR tags to digital signage displays, meeting room signs, and wayfinding kiosks that allow people to take the information they need with them on their mobile phones.

Moving forward, we’ll see more integration of AI tools into the digital signage ecosystem—notably for content creation and data analytics that help organizations measure the success of their digital signage strategies.

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AVT Question: Please share insight into display technology trends, new form factors, and applications.

Thought Leader: Will Bear, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Crimson AV

AV and IT are closely intertwined, and decision makers must be attuned to various trends that can impact their purchasing decisions. Whether it's interactive displays, touch-enabled devices, or immersive technologies, there are some key trends to keep in mind.

First, as AV/IT systems continue to converge, seamless integration and interoperability become paramount. Decision makers should prioritize solutions that can seamlessly communicate and integrate with existing infrastructure.

Second, touch-enabled displays and gesture control have become a big part of digital signage solutions. Buyers should look for touch technology that is accurate, responsive, and supports multi-touch gestures. Incorporating intuitive touch controls enhances the UX and provides a more interactive and collaborative experience.

Third, immersive technologies like virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) are transforming the way people interact with content. Tech managers should consider how these technologies can be leveraged to enhance presentations, training sessions, and customer interactions. Immersive experiences can captivate audiences and provide a competitive edge.

Fourth, user-centric design principles should guide AV/IT purchasing decisions. Solutions should be intuitive, easy to use, and accessible to individuals with varying levels of technical proficiency. A well-designed user interface can significantly impact user adoption and productivity.

And finally, rapid technological advancements mean that AV/IT solutions can quickly become obsolete. Decision makers should seek scalable and future-proof solutions that can accommodate evolving needs and technologies. Investing in upgradable systems and modular designs can extend the lifespan of AV equipment.

Tech Managers should consider a holistic approach that encompasses integration, user experience, innovation, sustainability, and security. By staying informed about these trends and selecting solutions that align with their organization's objectives, decision makers can create immersive and impactful AV environments that enhance communication, collaboration, and overall business success.

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AVT Question: Please share insight into display technology trends, new form factors, and applications.

Thought Leader: Chris Teguh, Product Manager at Epson America

We are seeing a surge of interest in creating immersive spaces and experiences, and with that comes the demand for flexible technology to power them. Whether art installations, entertainment, or practical use cases like collaborative classrooms or ultra-wide displays in meeting rooms, high-resolution and large-scale display applications are on the rise, and there are a couple of AV trends that are worth keeping an eye on.

Display technology expectations in everyday life have risen significantly in recent years as retailers look for unique ways to attract consumers. Corporate spaces and classrooms are being designed to see and do more with their displays, and immersive entertainment is becoming more prevalent. As a result, there is a much higher demand for accessible and flexible display technology that can deliver immersive or ultra-wide displays across a wide range of environments. 

In addition, popular collaboration tools, such as Microsoft Teams Front Row, are optimized for a larger display size and ultra-wide 21:9 aspect ratio. With a wider screen you can have multiple windows side by side, such as chat windows, presentation slides, and documents. Having advantages over flat panels—projectors are a cost-effective solution that provides a lot of installation flexibility for wider aspect ratios like 21:9.

Epson continues to introduce new projector technology and tools that enable immersive environments for entertainment, schools, and collaboration. Offering flexible aspect ratios and smaller form factors, convenient installation, blending and stacking tools, and high-quality image and brightness, Epson packs impressive features into its extensive 3-chip 3LCD projector lineup. This simplifies decision making for AV/IT professionals—no matter what task is at hand.

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AVT Question: Please share insight into display technology trends, new form factors, and applications.

Thought Leader: Jordan Feil, Director of Marketing at Navori Labs 

AV/IT decision makers must realize that technology is changing and advancing more rapidly than ever. That means keeping one eye on the now and the other on the future when planning their next purchases. By selecting software providers that are forward-thinking and constantly innovating, they will always have a digital signage software platform that can address the latest industry trends and technologies.

This goal is more easily achieved through a single, unified software platform that can handle many projects, from standard digital signage and interactive kiosks to immersive and gesture-powered experiences. AV/IT decision makers must find a way to execute on any project or use case that comes up, without needing to deploy multiple different platforms.

The first hurdle to overcome is confirming that the software is reliable and that it works. Purchasers often get distracted by technology trends they see at tradeshows or in software demos, and rush to buy and implement without the necessary QA and testing. This often results in futuristic experiences that are unreliable and don’t work perfectly 100 percent of the time. Consumers expect snappy, responsive experiences—same as with our personal devices—making functional reliability paramount. Work with vendors that develop and actively support their software in-house to maintain consistency with the digital signage experiences you provide.

While interactive and immersive experiences are designed to impress and excite customers and visitors, never forget to include CTAs and conversion steps along with that wow factor. That may be as simple as gathering contact information from interested customers or offering coupons or other incentives to try out the interactive experience you have made an investment in for your organization. Finding ways to monetize your new experience can take the pressure off, because no matter what, their new project will bring in revenue and potentially pay for itself in the future.

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AVT Question: Please share insight into display technology trends, new form factors, and applications.

Thought Leader: Effi Goldstein, President at HDBaseT Alliance 

When it comes to digital display purchases, perhaps the primary factor AV/IT managers should take into consideration is the quality and performance of the visual content that’s planning to be presented. Of these, one of the most important aspects is resolution, especially as displays continue to get bigger in screen size. Furthermore, as DOOH becomes more immersive, higher resolutions without compression are needed to avoid pixelation or other artifacts that can diminish the viewing experience. However, with these higher resolutions also comes greater bandwidth and data transfer rate requirements, which can pose significant challenges for long-distance extension of the media from its originating source. In such cases, HDBaseT 3.0’s ability to transmit fully uncompressed 4K@60Hz 4:4:4 up to 328 feet (100m) over Category cable provides the ideal solution, and one that can even be daisy chained over and over without sacrificing signal quality.

Additionally, with standards and formats evolving so rapidly, AV/IT managers should also seek to implement solutions for future proofing their digital display installations with flexibility. One such way is through modular interface cards, such as those based on Intel’s Smart Display Module (SDM) platform. These cards are easily interchanged to provide displays with various functionalities and interfaces, including HDBaseT 3.0, and their small form factors make them compatible with even modern slim-profile screens. As a result, existing hardware can continue to be leveraged over time rather than be replaced as the system is continually upgraded. Not only does this translate into financial savings due to potential longer equipment lifespans, but also less e-waste finding its way into our landfills. In other words, green benefits on multiple fronts!

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AVT Question: Please share insight into display technology trends, new form factors, and applications.

Thought Leader: Sam Kennedy, Senior Director of Product Marketing at Crestron

I’d urge specifiers to really think about the potential for multiple functions when it comes to these deployments: Can wayfinding double as interactive messaging, for example? Can an advertisement also become an interactive menu? The growth of interactive screens took off in the strive for contactless interactions at fast-food restaurants and hotels during the pandemic, and those possibilities continue to develop. From wayfinding to access control, the examples are limitless. Suppose you’re in a shopping center or a hotel: Tap the map, and you can find out what’s happening in that space.

That’s mainly accomplished by advancements in software rather than hardware. The next steps in this technology will be about simplifying the entire system—having fewer boxes to deal with. Less hardware means ease of installation, ease of management, and products that can be easily adapted and applied to both commercial and residential installations. 

I think it’s also tremendously important that organizations keep in mind what’s coming next: signage that delivers content to a specific audience.

One way to automate this content delivery might be density and occupancy sensors. Let’s use Crestron HQ as an example: If I know that on certain days of the week, the marketing section of Crestron sees a large number of in-person workers, but on other days most of my colleagues are working remotely, then perhaps I can change my content to deliver the right info for that larger group. I might choose to display information like benefits changes or agendas for team meetings when the screens are likely to be viewed by the most people. If I know that we have many in-person customer meetings on Tuesdays, then that’s when I’ll display content informed by my company’s branding, or a video that’s showing off our latest products. 

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AVT Question: Please share insight into display technology trends, new form factors, and applications.

Thought Leader: Brian McClimans, Vice President of Sales, North America and APAC at Peerless-AV

When AV decision makers are planning for their next purchase, they need to keep in mind the power of using digital signage to create immersive experiences and increase ROI.

For example, in the case of advertising, the average American is usually exposed to 4,000 to 10,000 advertisements a day. A captivating visual presentation—possible with high-quality digital signage—can be the key to creating a memorable experience and standing out amongst the noise. Static signage is no longer enough when it comes to public, out-of-home advertising.

We can expect to see an even steeper rise in digitized out-of-home advertising with upgraded digital signage solutions, which save brands both time and money compared to static signage that needs frequent, manual updating and is less eye-catching. 

Outdoor-certified displays, kiosks in shopping centers, dvLED video walls in public transportation, and digital billboards are just a few spaces where digital signage can be used to catch the attention of passersby and communicate immersive messages in just a few moments. In fact, recall jumps to 55 percent when viewing outdoor digital billboards in particular, proving both the effectiveness and importance of digital signage when it comes to advertising. Having high brightness, high-resolution imagery, and a durable solution built to withstand elements can ensure digital signage maintains its quality and aesthetic appeal for long-term, effective usage. We can expect to see businesses upgrading displays that prioritize high power efficiency, lightweight solutions, and interactive capabilities.

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AVT Question: Please share insight into display technology trends, new form factors, and applications.

Thought Leader: Patrick Prothe, Director of Marketing at Audinate 

There are several trends to consider that reflect changing consumer expectations and technological advancements, ensuring investments remain relevant and impactful.

Content personalization continues to be a significant factor in most interactive experiences. Consumers are influenced in their personal lives by online shopping experiences and social media content curation that caters to their desires and interests. That curation is created by cataloging prior activity on the platform: What did they look at, like, or buy? What was their dwell time on the page? Did they leave a comment or review? Decision makers should pursue solutions that leverage AI to optimize content delivery and measure audience engagement.

More digital applications are being used to display dynamic, real-time video content that requires low-latency audio. To support this trend, particularly in digital signage applications, Audinate partnered with ASPEED to develop Dante AV-A. Dante AV-A extends the Dante AV portfolio to hardware based on ASPEED’s popular AST1530/1535 system-on-chip (SoC). It delivers high-quality video and two channels of Dante audio that are instantly compatible with Dante-enabled audio products, simplifying distributed AV system design.

Platform management and security are increasingly crucial for any digital solution. As these solutions become more interconnected, security measures must be prioritized to protect against potential cyber threats and ensure data privacy compliance. Adding oversight of interactive projects to an already taxed IT organization means that managing the platforms must be easy and intuitive. Remote management capabilities and cloud-based solutions for centralized control and ease of content distribution are must-haves for any solution. 

By keeping these trends top of mind, decision makers can make informed choices that align with their organization's goals, engage their target audience effectively, and create memorable digital experiences that drive results.

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AVT Question: Please share insight into display technology trends, new form factors, and applications.

Thought Leader: Brice McPheeters, Vice President, Product and Planning at Nanolumens

We understand that the ever-evolving digital signage ecosystem requires considering trends that will shape the future of an organization. With the advent of interactive, touch-enabled, and immersive solutions, the potential for transforming user experiences has never been greater. We believe several areas need to be considered when planning your digital signage projects.

First, the AV/IT industry is witnessing a surge in demand for bespoke solutions that cater to specific needs and spaces. Decision makers should prioritize vendors that offer customizable display options. An AV partner’s expertise lies in creating tailored, flexible LED display solutions that fit unique environments and enhance engagement, making them a frontrunner in this aspect.

Second, the integration of interactivity into displays is revolutionizing user engagement in various sectors, such as education, retail, and corporate settings. Touch-enabled screens, interactive displays, and gesture recognition technologies are on the rise. AV/IT decision makers should explore how touch capabilities integrate into their solutions, fostering a more intuitive and immersive user experience.

Third, in an age where visual experiences are paramount, investing in immersive displays can significantly impact user perception. Partner with a manufacturer that offers cutting-edge display technology that provides stunning, high-resolution visuals—captivating audiences with breathtaking imagery and seamless content delivery.

And finally, to ensure that investments remain relevant and adaptable, decision makers must evaluate the scalability and future-proofing capabilities of their chosen display solutions. Manufacturers should focus on providing scalable display options, coupled with upgradable hardware and software. This ensures their offerings are an ideal choice for AV/IT decision makers looking to stay competitive.

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AVT Question: Please share insight into display technology trends, new form factors, and applications.

Thought Leader: Travis Tuttle, Key Account Manager at Absen

AV/IT decision makers stand at the crossroads of technological evolution, facing an array of choices that will shape their organizations' communication and presentation capabilities. Whether considering interactive, touch-enabled, or immersive solutions, several key trends should be foremost in their minds when charting the course for their next AV/IT purchases.

First, user experience emerges as the paramount consideration. In an era where seamless interaction is expected, touch-enabled and interactive technologies offer intuitive interfaces that foster engagement. These tools not only facilitate collaboration but also enhance presentations by enabling dynamic content manipulation. AV/IT choices should focus on empowering users, and encouraging active participation and knowledge sharing.

Another critical consideration is flexibility. The modern workspace demands adaptable tools that seamlessly integrate with existing systems and accommodate evolving needs. Interoperability between different devices and platforms ensures smoother communication and enhances productivity. Decision makers should prioritize solutions that offer compatibility and scalability, safeguarding their investments in the long term.

Additionally, the trend towards immersive experiences cannot be ignored. Virtual and augmented reality are transforming how information is presented and absorbed. Forward-thinking decision makers should explore the potential of immersive technologies to create captivating and memorable experiences. These innovations hold the promise of transporting users to new realms of learning and communication.

Security must remain a steadfast concern. As AV/IT landscapes become increasingly connected, the risk of breaches and data leaks heightens. Decision makers should seek solutions with robust cybersecurity features, safeguarding sensitive information and ensuring the integrity of their systems.

The AV/IT landscape is undergoing rapid transformation, with interactive, touch-enabled, and immersive technologies leading the way. As decision makers plan for their next purchases, they must keep in mind the user experience, trends of flexibility, immersion, and security. By embracing these trends, organizations can position themselves at the forefront of innovation, fostering collaboration, communication, and success in an ever-evolving digital landscape.

[On Next-Gen Audio: 15 Thought Leaders]

AVT Question: Please share insight into display technology trends, new form factors, and applications.

Thought Leader: Daniel Prax, Global Director, Digital Marketing at Black Box

AV customers and integrators realize the growing importance of data analytics. The ability to capture and interpret vast amounts of data is increasingly crucial for businesses and institutions. Data-driven insights can enhance user engagement, optimize operations, and influence strategic planning. Therefore, decision-makers should prioritize AV/IT solutions with robust analytical capabilities.

Cybersecurity is also a trend that can't be overstated, since the risk of data breaches and cyber attacks escalates with the growth of digital connectivity. Therefore, secure AV/IT systems need to be an essential component of every organization's strategic plan in order to protect valuable information and maintain users' trust.

In addition, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) are making their mark in the AV/IT landscape. AI and ML can learn from user behavior and create highly customized interactions, making these advancements highly attractive for future investment. These technologies can assist with automation, personalization, and improved user experiences. 

Furthermore, the importance of sustainability in the AV/IT industry is growing. More organizations are prioritizing eco-friendly options, focusing on energy-efficient equipment and seeking vendors who share their commitment to sustainability.

AV/IT decision-makers need to consider all of these trends when planning future projects. Although interactive, touch-enabled, and immersive technologies are important, it is also crucial to consider data analytics, cybersecurity, AI/ML, and sustainability. Considering all of these pillars of an emerging digital paradigm can drive both growth and resilience. Ignoring these trends, however, could result in missed opportunities and potential vulnerabilities.

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AVT Question: Please share insight into display technology trends, new form factors, and applications.

Thought Leader: Jeff Muto, Product Marketing Director at ViewSonic

As witnessed at InfoComm, the biggest trend in AV/IT right now is massive direct-view LED displays. These displays provide AV/IT teams with expanded choices for immersive, impactful, big-screen messaging. Direct-view LED displays ensure that office workers, students, and customers can view content with complete clarity. Most of today’s direct-view LED displays come with exceptional audio and video features, ultra-slim bezels, and detachable system control boxes. These minimalist designs make these displays perfect for corporate lobbies and boardrooms, school auditoriums, retail spaces, and other environments where an impact needs to be made without the cumbersome size and weight of traditional LED video walls. 

A traditional LED video wall takes time and is complex to set up, from configuration and calibration to image stitching and setting up control systems, which often must be purchased separately—not to mention there are long hours and technical barriers for IT teams. Then, there is the issue of maintenance, as well as hardware and software availability. Finally, these traditional video walls are more complex for users and require a specialized technician to operate. 

Direct-view LED solutions boast seamless image quality with an all-in-one modular design that simplifies delivery, installation, and maintenance. Imagine the time and manpower saved when it only takes two AV/IT people a few hours to set up a display anywhere from 135- to 200-plus inches. Plug-and-play design eliminates additional components and accessories, with everything included. Maintenance is easier with front-serviceable modules that do not require moving or turning the display off. Direct-view LED displays also have about twice the lifespan of traditional LCD video walls, without the noticeable drop off in quality after long-term use.

All things considered, direct-view LED displays offer lower TCO and better ROI in the long run.

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AVT Question: Please share insight into display technology trends, new form factors, and applications.

Thought Leader: Michelle Montazeri, Manager, Digital Signage at Legrand | AV  

A successful deployment uses hidden or “quiet” technology that feels like part of the space; it looks and feels like it fits.

The trends to keep in mind depend on the space we’re considering. If we look at the spaces that are expanding today—museums, amusement parks, and other environments where people are expecting an experience—immersive technology has all but taken over. It’s also not technology-centric, since if you are at a Disneyland, it should feel like a Disneyland. 

The other important consideration is putting the experience back into users’ hands. QSRs and even higher ed facilities are empowering the user to navigate as they wish. Consider an airport and how diverse the audience is—how different travelers prefer the experience of navigating to their flight. One person may want to use an app to order their Starbucks ahead to be ready by the time they get through security; another may go to the gate first, then head to the Starbucks and order in person at the kiosk. Successful integrations make it a smooth experience regardless of the way a customer wants to interact.

For higher ed campuses, standardization helps to bridge fragmented campuses. Those who have deployed successful digital signage applications recognize that having a single software platform makes a world of difference—not only to streamlining important tools like emergency messaging but to simplifying the experience for internal users like marketing and IT.

[On Next-Gen Audio: 15 Thought Leaders]

AVT Question: Please share insight into display technology trends, new form factors, and applications.

Thought Leader: Tomer Mann, Chief Revenue Officer at 22Miles

AV/IT experts need to think about unification, compatibility, and simplicity across all devices. The right foundation is essential to designing digital signage networks that boast these traits without compromising the wow factor. 

Visual communications solutions should integrate with the organization’s existing technologies to share information and improve workflows without adding complexity. In addition, many organizations lack the resources to produce and maintain content on a regular basis, resulting in outdated and incorrect information. Decision-makers can avoid this trap by selecting a content management system (CMS) that supports automated content generation. In larger deployments, they can further ensure relevance by deploying content to specific locations; with the right CMS, it’s possible to set up discrete approval workflows by department or location. 

Choosing a CMS with a strong portfolio of API integrations is the key to success. Integrations can provide customers with easy access to important data, customizable visual experiences, and easy content deployment to support stakeholders throughout their journey. Partner with a CMS provider that streamlines the organization’s technology tools into a central access point for deployment and control throughout their digital signage system. Experts should ensure their CMS is equipped with a range of APIs to suit existing and future technology requirements. Customization should also be easy to incorporate, with an AI-driven approach to brand and content unification to make the deployment seamless. 

No two organizations have the same technology requirements, but everyone should demand that their visual communications experiences not only support but enhance their business’ technology and operations. To ensure adaptability and scalability for all projects, begin the digital signage discovery process supported by a broad range of APIs and operability across all digital devices. Then, future-proof your solutions with a dynamic back end and constantly growing API library for expansion without limitations.

[On Next-Gen Audio: 15 Thought Leaders]

AVT Question: Please share insight into display technology trends, new form factors, and applications.

Thought Leader: Carrie Garcia, US Business Development Manager at YCD Multimedia

It's important to recognize the significance of staying ahead of the curve when planning for future purchases. Decision-makers must carefully consider trends to make informed choices that align with their organization's goals and target audience.

We see a major shift towards interactivity. Traditional static displays are becoming less effective in engaging audiences. Interactive displays, such as touchscreens and gesture-based interfaces, enable more personalized experiences. These interactive solutions encourage user participation, leading to increased brand engagement and improved information retention. As such, AV/IT decision-makers should prioritize investments in interactive technologies that cater to their specific use cases and enhance customer experiences.

Another vital consideration is touch-enabled solutions and BYOD. With the proliferation of smartphones and tablets, people have grown accustomed to touch-based interactions. Touch-enabled displays offer intuitive user experiences, enabling visitors to navigate content easily and independently. Incorporating touch-enabled displays can streamline processes, boost sales, and foster better communication with customers or students.

Immersive experiences represent yet another trend to keep in mind. Virtual and augmented reality technologies have gained significant traction across various industries. Decision-makers should assess the potential of these technologies to create captivating and memorable experiences for their audiences. Whether it's showcasing products in 3D, providing virtual tours, or gamifying learning experiences, immersive solutions can elevate engagement levels and differentiate a brand from its competitors.

Lastly, AV/IT decision-makers must factor in the importance of content management systems (CMS). A reliable CMS is essential for remotely controlling and updating content across multiple displays and locations. It streamlines content distribution, ensures consistency, and allows for real-time adjustments, maximizing the impact of the displays. By partnering with innovative providers like YCD Multimedia, businesses can unlock the full potential of these trends and deliver captivating and impactful experiences to delight their audiences.

[On Next-Gen Audio: 15 Thought Leaders]

AVT Question: Please share insight into display technology trends, new form factors, and applications.

Thought Leader: Dana Corey, Senior Vice President at Avocor

An essential for every breakout area, meeting space, and classroom is the large-format display—our specialist subject here at Avocor. During downtime, however, a display is often asleep and forgotten about until the next meeting or presentation. How can displays be working harder to earn their prime position in real estate?

A key trend is for multifunctional all-in-one solutions that work harder and make long-term sense for the initial outlay investment. Corporate and education decision-makers want to invest in solutions that can provide high performance but also deliver value.

At Avocor, we have forged an alliance with Rise Vision. Every Avocor display will now include Rise Vision digital signage software as standard, providing an out-of-the box multi-purpose tool for collaboration and digital signage use. 

These solutions resonate with IT managers and executives looking for efficiency but also align perfectly with market trends that are increasingly favoring integrated solutions. By turning displays into digital signage tools, it gives displays greater purpose and helps to reinforce a positive culture and informed workplace. 

This integration also creates a powerful security tool, providing instant emergency alerts across the entire network of Avocor displays on a campus. For example, if there is an intruder on a school campus, every classroom can be instantly alerted and given consistent safety instructions.

Rise Vision remote management simplifies the maintenance and updating across campus-wide display networks. What’s more, users can design and update digital signage content from more than 500 templates and relay this across the network, instantly.

[On Next-Gen Audio: 15 Thought Leaders]

AVT Question: Please share insight into display technology trends, new form factors, and applications.

Thought Leader: Jeff Hastings, Co-Chief Executive Officer at BrightSign

One of the most prevalent trends we’re seeing is the expansion of digital signage well beyond traditional visual elements to create immersive experiences that capture the audience’s attention in new and innovative ways. We’re talking about multi-sensory experiences that connect with audiences more deeply than ever before.

At a practical level, this means that networks need to be capable of much more than simply delivering content to video endpoints. Instead, we’re helping our customers create robust networks that bring together video, audio, and other sensory elements to deliver experiences that connect with customers on a multitude of levels—deepening those connections and creating an impact that lasts well beyond the moment they engage with the brand.

A key driver of this evolution is the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) and a whole host of technologies that build on these platforms. Visual sensors, for example, can detect and interpret visual cues about the viewer and then tailor the content appropriately. While this technology itself isn’t new, what we’re able to do with it is evolving quickly thanks to AI and ML. Now those same sensors that detect demographic information about the audience can also measure dwell time and other important metrics to understand which content does the best job of holding the viewer’s attention. Taking this example one step further, it won’t be long until generative AI is layered on top of those analytics to automatically create better iterations of existing content to do an even better job of capturing and keeping the viewer’s attention.

We’re in the early stages of understanding how generative AI will impact our market, but it’s reasonable to expect that it will streamline (and in some cases automate) the delivery of content that is continuously refined to attract and engage audiences in a wide range of business applications more effectively than ever.

[On Next-Gen Audio: 15 Thought Leaders]