As someone who has been openly critical of Cisco in the past, I found myself eating humble pie at this year’s Cisco Live Melbourne. The event not only showcased Cisco’s impressive evolution in the collaboration space but also demonstrated their commitment to innovation in ways I hadn’t expected.

 

A Fresh Perspective

Let’s be honest – many of us in the tech industry have had our reservations about Cisco over the years. However, what I witnessed at Cisco Live Melbourne 2024 suggests that the company has been listening to feedback and actively working to address past criticisms. The transformation in their collaboration portfolio is particularly noteworthy.

Standout Innovations

Three products particularly caught my attention during the event:

 

1. The New Cisco Ceiling Mic

This might sound like a simple addition to their portfolio, but it’s a game-changer for modern workplace acoustics. The ceiling-mounted microphone solution demonstrates Cisco’s understanding of how today’s hybrid workspaces need to evolve, offering crystal-clear audio whilst maintaining a clean, uncluttered aesthetic in meeting spaces.

 

 

 

2. Cisco Spaces

Cisco Spaces represents a significant step forward in workplace management and optimisation. This platform goes beyond simple room booking or occupancy monitoring – it’s a comprehensive solution for understanding and improving how physical spaces are utilised. The intelligence built into the platform helps organisations make data-driven decisions about their workplace design and usage.

 

 

 

3. Cisco Workspace Designer

The Workspace Designer tool is particularly impressive. It’s clear that Cisco understands the challenges organisations face in creating effective hybrid workspaces. This tool allows teams to visualise and plan their collaboration spaces before making physical changes, ensuring optimal setup for both in-person and remote participants.

 

 

 

The Bigger Picture

What struck me most wasn’t just the individual products, but how they all fit together in Cisco’s broader vision for the future of work. There’s a coherent strategy at play here – one that acknowledges the complexities of hybrid work whilst offering practical solutions to address them.

 

Looking Ahead

If you’ve been sceptical about Cisco’s offerings in recent years, I encourage you to take another look. The company has clearly invested significant resources in understanding and addressing customer needs, particularly in the collaboration space. The results of these efforts were evident at Cisco Live Melbourne 2024.

 

 

Final Thoughts

Whilst no technology provider is perfect, Cisco has shown remarkable progress in evolving their collaboration solutions. The event demonstrated that they’re not just keeping pace with industry changes – in many ways, they’re helping to define what’s possible in modern workplace collaboration.

For those who, like me, may have been hesitant about Cisco’s solutions in the past, now might be the time to re-evaluate. The company has clearly turned a corner, and their current offerings deserve serious consideration for organisations looking to enhance their collaboration capabilities.

As 2024 unfolds, the commercial audio-visual (AV) sector is poised for a transformative shift, driven by technological advancements and changing business needs. This blog post explores the key trends and expectations in commercial AV technology, providing insights into what businesses and organizations should prepare for in the coming year.

Advanced Video Conferencing Solutions

In an era where remote work and digital collaboration are the norms, video conferencing technology takes center stage. Expect to see more sophisticated systems offering higher resolution video, better sound quality, and enhanced reliability. Integration of AI for automated camera tracking and voice enhancement will make virtual meetings more efficient and lifelike.

Immersive Presentation Technologies

The way presentations are delivered is set to change with immersive technologies. Augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) will start playing a significant role in business presentations and training modules, offering interactive and engaging experiences. This shift will not only enhance audience engagement but also aid in better information retention.

Seamless Integration with Smart Building Systems

AV technology will increasingly integrate with broader smart building systems. This integration will allow for more efficient management of resources, including automated lighting, sound, and visual displays, all controlled through a central system. Such integration enhances the user experience while optimizing energy usage and operational costs.

High-Resolution Digital Signage

Digital signage will continue to evolve, with 4K and 8K displays becoming more prevalent. These high-resolution screens offer crisp and engaging visuals, making them ideal for advertisements, information boards, and interactive kiosks. The use of dynamic content, managed remotely and updated in real-time, will provide businesses with a powerful tool for communication and marketing.

Sustainable AV Solutions

Sustainability is a growing concern, and the commercial AV sector is responding with more eco-friendly solutions. Expect advancements in energy-efficient technologies, use of sustainable materials, and systems designed for longer lifecycles. Companies will increasingly seek these green AV solutions to meet corporate sustainability goals and reduce their environmental impact.

Audio technology in commercial settings is expected to see significant improvements. With the emergence of spatial audio and advanced sound processing technologies, businesses can create more precise and clear audio environments, crucial for conferences, presentations, and public announcements.

Next-Generation Wireless Connectivity

Wireless technology is set to revolutionize commercial AV. The expansion of 5G networks and advancements in Wi-Fi technology will enable faster, more reliable wireless AV setups, reducing the need for complex wiring and allowing for more flexible space utilization.

AI-Driven Customization and Analytics

AI will play a pivotal role in tailoring AV experiences to specific audiences and analyzing engagement data. AI-driven systems can adjust lighting, sound, and display settings in real-time based on the audience’s responses and preferences, leading to more effective and personalized communication strategies.

Conclusion

The commercial AV landscape in 2024 is marked by an amalgamation of innovation, sustainability, and customization. As businesses adapt to the rapidly changing technological environment, these trends in commercial AV technology will not only enhance operational efficiency but also provide new avenues for engaging with clients and stakeholders. The future of commercial AV is here, and it’s more integrated, intelligent, and impactful than ever before.

In the modern workplace, the boardroom is more than just a meeting space; it’s a hub of collaboration and innovation. At Focus AV, we’ve observed a significant shift in how upgraded audio-visual (AV) technology in boardrooms can transform employee engagement. Here’s how:

1. Facilitating Active Participation

Modern AV solutions offer tools like live polling, interactive presentations, and Q&A sessions. These features empower employees to actively participate in meetings, leading to increased involvement and ownership of projects and decisions.

2. Enhancing Remote Meeting Experiences

In today’s hybrid work environment, virtual meeting rooms powered by AV technology play a pivotal role. They replicate the physical meeting space experience with high-definition video and spatial audio, promoting a sense of unity and engagement among remote team members.

3. Transforming Remote Training

AV technology has revolutionized remote training and workshops. Interactive sessions, multimedia content, and facilitated discussions now provide an experience on par with in-person training, enabling remote employees to actively engage and learn.

4. Interactive Data Visualization

Interactive dashboards powered by AV technology offer real-time data visualization and analytics. This approach helps employees quickly understand complex information, fostering engagement with data and encouraging informed decision-making.

5. Visual Reports and Infographics

Gone are the days of traditional textual reports. AV technology allows for the creation of visually compelling infographics and reports, making complex data easily understandable and sharable across the organization.

6. Personalized Video Messages

Video messages from organizational leaders, thanks to AV technology, add a personal touch that resonates deeply with employees. These messages create a stronger emotional connection and enhance employee engagement.

7. Audio Content Variety

Podcasts and audio briefings provide an alternative way for employees to consume information, catering to different learning styles and keeping them informed and inspired.

8. Creating Dynamic Environments

Integrating AV technology in workplaces transforms them into dynamic environments, fostering productivity, collaboration, and employee satisfaction.

Technology in Meeting Spaces

As Focus AV, we emphasize the importance of the design of meeting spaces. Upgraded displays, cameras, microphones, and speakers are essential for effective collaboration, especially in hybrid work arrangements.

The Role of Displays

Modern displays in conference rooms now support collaboration tools with features like 8K resolution and dual displays, enhancing the visual aspect of meetings.

Collaboration Platforms

The transition to a video-first approach in meetings has been driven by platforms like Zoom and Microsoft Teams, offering extensive collaboration experiences.

Audio Clarity

Latest microphone and speaker technologies improve audio quality, ensuring clear communication for both in-room and remote participants.

In conclusion, the integration of modern AV technology in boardrooms significantly enhances employee engagement. By providing interactive, inclusive, and enriched experiences, these technological advancements are reshaping the way we work and collaborate. At Focus AV, we are committed to staying at the forefront of these developments, ensuring our clients have access to the best tools to foster a productive and engaged workforce.

 

Creating an effective meeting room layout that incorporates audiovisual elements is crucial for enhancing communication and collaboration in today’s corporate environment. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you design an efficient and engaging meeting space.

1. Understand the Space

Before diving into the specifics of audiovisual equipment, it’s important to understand the space you’re working with. Consider the size of the room, natural light sources, and the typical number of participants. A small room intended for quick huddles will have different requirements than a large conference area.

2. Choose the Right Display Technology

• Size Matters: Ensure your screen is visible to all participants. A general rule is that the screen should be half the distance of the furthest seat.
• Type of Display: LED screens are popular for their clarity and visibility, while projectors might be more suitable for larger rooms.
• Positioning: Place the screen at eye level to avoid neck strain and ensure a comfortable viewing angle.

3. Invest in Quality Audio Equipment

• Microphones: Consider ceiling-mounted or table microphones for larger rooms. In smaller spaces, a central microphone may suffice.
• Speakers: Ensure even sound distribution. Ceiling speakers can be a good choice for larger rooms.
• Acoustics: Pay attention to the room’s acoustics. Carpeting and acoustic panels can reduce echo and improve sound quality.

Take your meetings, boardrooms, classrooms, and auditoriums to the next level with scalable and premium audio. Find out more here 

4. Effective Lighting is Key

• Natural Light: Utilize natural light but be mindful of glare on screens.
• Artificial Lighting: Use adjustable and dimmable lights to accommodate different needs. Avoid placing lights directly above screens to reduce glare.

5. Integrate Video Conferencing Solutions

• Camera Placement: Place the camera at eye level to simulate a face-to-face conversation. Ensure that everyone in the room can be seen by the camera.
• Software Compatibility: Ensure your system is compatible with various video conferencing platforms.

6. User-Friendly Controls

• Centralized Control System: A touch panel that controls screens, audio, lights, and other equipment can simplify operations.
• Training: Provide basic training to employees on how to use the AV equipment efficiently.

Read more about our pick for user friendly controls here.

7. Furniture and Layout

• Ergonomics: Choose comfortable and adjustable furniture.
• Layout: Arrange seating so everyone has a clear view of the screen and can hear audio clearly. Consider flexible furniture arrangements for different meeting types.

8. Plan for Connectivity

• Wi-Fi Strength: Ensure strong and reliable Wi-Fi, especially if cloud-based tools are used.
• Power Outlets: Provide accessible charging stations and power outlets for devices.

9. Test and Iterate

Regularly test your AV setup to identify and address any issues. Be open to feedback from users and make adjustments as needed.

10. Future-Proofing

Stay updated with the latest AV technology trends. Plan your layout and infrastructure in a way that allows for easy upgrades and changes.

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In conclusion, a well-designed meeting room that integrates efficient audiovisual elements can significantly enhance the meeting experience. It’s not just about installing high-tech equipment; it’s about creating a harmonious and functional environment that fosters effective communication and collaboration.

The world of digital signage has evolved significantly in recent years, offering businesses a highly effective medium to communicate with customers, employees, or visitors. Whether it’s retail, corporate offices, or public spaces, digital signage has become a mainstay. Selecting the right software can be a game-changer, improving operational efficiency and boosting engagement. Here’s a look at the top 5 commercial signage software options you should consider for your business.

 

 

A User-Friendly and Data-Driven Choice

VITEC is a leading provider of IP-based digital signage, video streaming, and IPTV solutions. The company has received recognition in the form of a Technology & Engineering Emmy® Award for its contributions to IP Multicast Video Distribution Engineering Excellence. VITEC’s solutions offer high-quality, low-latency HD video capture and distribution in various formats, accessible anytime and anywhere on multiple devices.

Key Highlights:

• Corporate: VITEC offers an enterprise platform for video over IP, providing secure streaming video for corporate communication that can be accessed from any device.
• Venues: VITEC’s IP video and digital signage solutions enhance audience engagement in venues such as stadiums, arenas, and casinos by delivering low-latency, high-quality live video streams to multiple screens.
• Government: VITEC’s technology enables federal government and intelligence agencies to access video content immediately to support their operations, ensuring efficient and reliable information transmission.
• Broadcast: Broadcasters, content providers, and media agencies worldwide rely on VITEC’s IPTV and digital signage solutions for the delivery, monitoring, and management of live TV and video content.
• Military: VITEC’s military solutions offer ultra-low latency and security for mission-critical applications, delivering real-time and on-demand video to various devices.
• Accommodation: VITEC’s solutions cater to a range of environments, enhancing viewer engagement, entertainment, and information dissemination in accommodation settings.

VITEC’s success stories include contributions to NASA missions, the Kansas City Royals’ fan engagement efforts, Overlake Medical Center’s patient experience improvement, and more. The company’s blog provides insights into the latest updates and trends in the industry, making VITEC a trusted partner in IP digital signage and viewer experience solutions.

With a focus on delivering high-quality video content and a reputation for innovation, VITEC continues to empower businesses and organizations across various markets with its advanced technology solutions.

 

Why Choose Vitec? Vitec is renowned for its user-friendly design and seamless integration capabilities. The analytics feature enables you to discern what captures your audience’s attention, empowering you to tailor your content effectively.

 

 

 

Real-Time Streaming for Corporate and Sports Settings

Tripleplay, offered by Uniguest, is a specialized AV integration solution designed to facilitate the distribution of media content to various devices across different networks. This platform encompasses three core services: IPTV, digital signage, and video streaming software and technology. Tripleplay is optimized for use in diverse environments such as sports venues, enterprises, banks, government agencies, and more.

 

Key Features and Components:

1. IPTV (Internet Protocol Television): This component allows organizations to capture and ingest content from various sources, encode it, and distribute it across an IP network. Content can be delivered to Digital Signage screens, desktop video apps, Interactive IPTV Portals, mobile IPTV applications, or as standalone TV feeds.
2. Digital Signage: Tripleplay’s Digital Signage software offers a range of features including drag-and-drop layout editors, event triggers for dynamic screen changes, playlist creation, and robust reporting and analytics tools. This enables precise control and monitoring of content display.
3. Enterprise Video: The Enterprise Video Platform provides a secure and comprehensive solution for managing and delivering live in-house streams, broadcast TV, digital signage, and video-on-demand content across a global content delivery network (CDN) to IP-enabled locations worldwide.
4. Low Latency Encoding: Tripleplay offers Low Latency Encoders suitable for fast-paced environments like sports stadiums and secure enough for government and corporate use. These encoders support dual HDMI and SDI inputs and are available in 4K and HD resolutions.

Deployment Options:

Tripleplay offers flexible deployment options to meet the unique needs of clients:

• Cloud Deployment: Content is delivered via Uniguest’s secure cloud-based platform, offering scalability and flexibility.
• Hybrid Deployment: This model allows content and streams to be configured locally on a server and then utilized through a central cloud management interface.
• On-Premise Deployment: For enhanced security and local control, Tripleplay can be deployed on-premise.

Tripleplay’s platform is exclusively sold and deployed through their global channel partner network, ensuring tailored solutions for each client. It serves a wide range of industries, including banking, corporate, education, government, healthcare, hospitality, retail, sports venues, and more.

Tripleplay’s focus on simplicity, security, and versatility makes it a compelling choice for organizations seeking to engage and connect with their audiences through various media channels.

 

Why Choose Tripleplay? Tripleplay’s emphasis on real-time streaming and mobile broadcasting positions it as an excellent choice for businesses seeking dynamic content delivery.

 

 

The Cloud-Based and Versatile Solution

Signagelive is a versatile and scalable digital signage software solution designed to cater to the diverse needs of enterprises and organizations, offering the following key features:

1. Choice in Software Licenses: Signagelive provides flexibility with a choice of software licenses. Users can opt for the Standard License, encompassing all available features, or the Web Content License, which focuses on delivering web content to screens.
2. Support for a Range of Devices: The platform supports a wide range of devices, allowing users to select the best players or screens that align with their budget and requirements.
3. Support Plans: Every customer is offered a Free Support Plan, and enhanced support plans are available for those requiring additional assistance with their digital signage.
4. Optional Upgrades: Signagelive offers various optional upgrades and services that can be added to the digital signage network, tailoring it to an organization’s specific needs. These upgrades include Single Sign-On (SSO), Active Directory integration, Proof of Play, Proactive Monitoring, and Secure Dashboards.

 

Signagelive has a strong global presence, serving customers in 89 countries, including prominent organizations like Arsenal, Coca-Cola, Deloitte, and more. Their platform is known for helping organizations effectively communicate with their audience, manage content, and recognize staff achievements.

Security is a paramount concern for Signagelive, and they offer Enterprise-grade features to ensure data and reputation protection, including ISO27001 accreditation, GDPR data compliance, and independent penetration tests.

The platform’s standout features include tagging and automated publishing, local and nested playlists, conditional playback based on tags, a marketplace of free and paid apps and integrations, developer tools (APIs and Widget SDK), enterprise-grade hierarchies, and user permissions.

Signagelive takes an API-first approach to software development, allowing seamless integration with existing business applications and workflows. This flexibility is accompanied by comprehensive documentation, example code, and dedicated developer support.

With solutions applicable to various sectors and use cases, Signagelive serves industries such as retail, quick-service restaurants (QSRs), workplace communications, hospitality, education, healthcare, automotive, stadiums, and transport.

In summary, Signagelive is a comprehensive digital signage solution known for its flexibility, scalability, security, and a wide range of features that cater to the unique needs of organizations across diverse industries.

 

Why Choose SignageLive? SignageLive’s flexibility, multi-screen support, and template library make it a versatile option for businesses looking to adapt their digital signage effortlessly.

 

 

 

Real-Time Social Media Integration for Enhanced Engagement

Fusion Signage is a user-friendly digital signage software solution that empowers businesses to create, manage, and deploy digital signage content quickly and affordably. It is recognized as one of the most cost-effective options in the market, with its popular 3-Year Advanced license costing just 33 cents a day.

Key Features and Highlights:

• Ease of Use: Fusion Signage is designed for simplicity, enabling users to bring their digital signage to life in a matter of minutes.
• Wide Applicability: The software is suitable for businesses of all shapes, sizes, and industries, making it versatile and adaptable.
• Trusted by Businesses: Fusion Signage is trusted by various businesses, including Coles Group, Concept Eight, Hairhouse, Endota, and United Petroleum.
• Affordable Pricing: Fusion Signage offers cost-effective pricing options, allowing businesses to access advanced digital signage capabilities without breaking the bank.
• Resources: The platform provides resources such as designer tutorials and Fusion Signage 101 to help users get the most out of the software.
• Blog: The blog section offers valuable insights, including use cases, news, and updates related to digital signage.
• Support and Contact: Fusion Signage provides a support center, help guide, and a contact option for users to seek assistance or get in touch with the company.
• White Label Option: Fusion Signage offers a white label solution for businesses looking to brand the software as their own.

In summary, Fusion Signage is a budget-friendly and user-centric digital signage software solution suitable for businesses across various industries. It empowers users to create engaging digital signage content quickly and effectively, making it a valuable tool for enhancing customer experiences.

 

Why Choose Fusion? Fusion’s unique social media integration and customization options set it apart, making it a compelling choice for businesses seeking interactive and engaging signage.

 

 

 

The Open-Source Customization Powerhouse

Xibo is a versatile digital signage solution that offers businesses a cost-effective and reliable platform to meet their digital signage needs. With support for various platforms, including Windows, Android, Tizen, Ubuntu, and webOS, Xibo provides flexibility and adaptability to changing business requirements.

Key Features and Highlights:

• Open Source: Xibo is an open-source digital signage solution available under the AGPLv3 license, offering a fully functional platform for businesses.
• Cost-Effective: Xibo offers competitively priced plans with monthly or yearly terms, allowing users to cancel anytime, making it a budget-friendly choice.
• Cloud Hosting: The option for cloud hosting allows users to have Xibo host and manage their content management system (CMS), enabling them to focus on content creation.
• Excellent Support: Xibo is known for its top-rated community and helpdesk support, ensuring users receive the assistance they need.
• Safe & Secure: Xibo ensures data safety, security, and privacy by not sharing CMS instances on Xibo in the Cloud.
• Web CMS: Users can create and schedule display content from desktop or tablet devices, offering convenience and flexibility.
• Digital Out-of-Home (DooH) Advertising: Xibo includes features for managing and monetizing digital signage networks through advertising.
• Layout Editor: An intuitive layout editor allows users to create attractive digital signage content with ease.
• Headless CMS: Xibo provides an API suite for building custom user experiences, enhancing versatility.

Xibo’s digital signage solution is suitable for various industries, including retail, corporate, hospitality, education, healthcare, and transportation. Businesses can quickly set up their Xibo CMS and benefit from reduced printing costs, improved internal communications, and enhanced customer experiences.

With a user-friendly interface and a strong track record, Xibo offers a reliable digital signage option that meets the diverse needs of businesses worldwide.

 

Why Choose Xibo? For businesses that prioritize customization and fine-tuned control over their digital signage, Xibo’s open-source platform and scheduling features make it an ideal choice.

 

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Conclusion

Choosing the right commercial signage software will ultimately depend on your business needs. Whether you prioritize real-time updates, robust analytics, or high customization levels, there’s a solution out there for you. By considering Vitec, Tripleplay, SignageLive, Fusion, or Xibo, you’re already on the path to making a well-informed decision that can significantly benefit your business.

For more information on each of these options, consider scheduling a demo or reaching out to a sales representative to explore how these software solutions can meet your specific needs.