Revolutionizing Return to Work with Microsoft Teams Rooms

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

Remote Work by the Numbers

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

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

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

Create an Irresistible Workplace

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

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

MTR in Other Verticals

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

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

Jeff Month Headshot

About the Author

Jeff Month

BDM – Brand Specialist

Supported Manufacturers: MAXHUB

Drones in the AV Industry and AV in the Drone Industry: How 2 Markets Interact with Each Other

Two separate markets, Drone Solutions and Professional AV Technology, are converging in ways that promise groundbreaking possibilities. At Exertis Almo, we are at the forefront of connecting these two industries, fostering a connection that will bring innovation to new heights.

Drone solutions, a recent player in comparison to the well-established Professional AV industry, are rapidly growing in popularity and presence. Although the drone market is less mature, its potential is undeniable, especially as these solutions are becoming increasingly common in a variety of applications.

Drone technology is not merely capturing visuals; it’s harnessing data for groundbreaking applications. From creating intricate 3D models to providing temperature readings, drone solutions enable a comprehensive understanding of environments, and the ability to review this collected data allows for proactive issue resolution. control center

A Command and Control Center – a large space equipped with many different screens – allows for the monitoring and control of a drone from an external location. Specifically in public safety applications, this extensive control space is integral for managing drone functions remotely, ensuring efficiency and precision in critical operations.

One growing challenge that we aim to address is the understanding of data – and where it’s going. From command-and-control centers and workbenches to office spaces and beyond, we can help provide a solution that integrates this data flow.

On the flip side, the Professional AV industry, although daunting to some, has a vast customer base. By acknowledging the extensive reach of the AV industry, we hope to unlock new avenues of collaboration with drone technology. Enter Exertis Almo – our mission is to encourage AV integrators to inquire about their customers’ data collection and command and control needs. With applications spanning government, education, public safety, and more, drones can play an important role in the Pro AV ecosystem.

Furthermore, Exertis Almo has recently partnered with SDI, offering training services available to Pro AV customers venturing into the realm of drones. This includes training programs and service support, empowering Pro AV integrators to seamlessly incorporate drones into their offerings.

Learn more about the extensive drone offerings now available at Exertis Almo.

Eric Jameson drones BDM
About the Author

Matt Callari

Director of Sales – Photo, UAV, Retail

International Women’s Day 2024 | Celebrating Women in AV

“Change is inevitable. Progression is a choice” – Sonya Teclai.

International Women’s Day 2024 | Friday, March 8th

The theme for International Women’s Day (IWD) 2024 is ‘Inspire Inclusion’. What does that mean? What does it look like? Why do we care? All great questions. Let’s dive in:

  • Inspire (verb) fill (someone) with the urge or ability to do or feel something, especially to do something creative.
  • Inclusions (noun) the action or state of including or of being included within a group or structure.

Prior to DE&I initiatives being something that we talked about in the corporate world, inclusion just meant the above. We have gotten to the point where inclusion definitions include a ‘line 2’ that specifically mentions the marginalized groups in our society to be included in the conversation, society, group, etc. – which begs the question: why did we need to qualify this definition further?

IWD Inclusion-definition

Despite the progress that has been made toward equality in the last handful of decades, and despite changing the literal definition of the word, we still have these types of statistics:

  • women in tech57.4% of women now participate in the workforce (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics), yet only 10.4% of Fortune 500 CEOs are women, and less than 1% are women of color
  • Women have outpaced men in obtaining college level education for decades (41% women vs. 36% men), women earned 60% of the master’s degrees and 51.9% of PHDs in the 2020/21 school year, yet in almost every field make up less of the workforce with lower pay for the same level of education
  • If we look specifically at the Pro AV / IT industry, the numbers get even more stark: Women make up only 11% of the U.S Pro AV market.  If you compound that with the fact that non-white workers in general make up only 15%, that means that non-white women are an extreme minority in our industry (source: AVIXA)

 Ok so I bored you with the stats. What can we do to change some of these positively?

Be proactive, creating or obtaining equity is not a sideline sport. It requires constant tweaking, maintenance, and effort on everyone’s part.

Be a sponsor, not just a mentor. Speak about the accomplishments of women when they aren’t in the room. Encourage them to speak up, pause for their input, and allow them to be heard when you have the power to do so. If you are a leader, and a message doesn’t need to be heard from you, lift up your team and let them get the experience or airtime. These are small steps that cost you nothing but provide a lot of value to the women in your workforce.

Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. In many aspects of life, we tend to gravitate toward people who look, talk and act like us. While homogeny can breed comfort, it doesn’t encourage or inspire inclusion. To inspire is a verb, and verbs require action. You must make a POINT to include people that sometimes look or sound different than you. Studies have shown that companies with women in the C-Suite on average have a 15% increase in profitability. There are many theories on why this is, but perhaps differing perspectives have tangible merit.

girls-in-STEMFind ways to make it natural. For example, Exertis Almo’s very own Lynn Buschman (Manager, HR Learning and Development), has found a more natural, or even subliminal, way of incorporating inclusion. She sets the L&D schedule and when there are topics that are TRADITIONALLY male dominated, she makes sure to highlight the non-male team members that are still highly qualified, but otherwise not as visible, to speak or teach on the topics. The more familiarity everyone gets from the topics being presented by someone that looks different, the more natural it feels.

Though its IWD, inclusion can go both ways. Women make up 76% of teachers in the U.S., but many studies have cited the benefit of having male teachers in the primary school setting, creating positive role models and outcomes for their young pupils. We can inspire women to look toward the more male dominated fields, while simultaneously encouraging men to consider fields that are traditionally dominated by women to offer their unique perspectives in those areas. Remember: inclusion is meant to include anyone into a group or structure that typically wouldn’t be there.

Create policies that support women staying in the workforce. As shown before, more than half of the women in the United States are participating in the workforce, and the majority of them are still carrying the lion share of child-rearing and other domestic tasks, which leads to burnout and a mass exodus from the workforce. Creating parental leave policies for both parents, flexible work arrangements, and other policies can help ease the burdens that take many women not only out of the running for promotions, but the workforce in general.

There is no ‘one way’ to be an ally to the marginalized people in our society. If you have not experienced discrimination or exclusion before, great! Nothing makes me happier to hear. Millions of women and other people have felt they were on the outside looking in for their lifetime, so if you have the ability, you can make 2024 the year you #inspireinclusion.

Ashley Nichols, Dir BizDev

Ashley Nichols | CTS, DSCE

Director of Business Development

Supported Manufacturers: Sony

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

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

1. Interactive and Collaborative Learning

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

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

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

2. Flexible Environments and Multi-Use Spaces

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

3. Assistive Listening for Inclusivity and Accessibility

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

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

4. Lecture Capture and Streaming for HyFlex Learning

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Summing It Up

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

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

 

Behind the Panel: Accessories in the Digital Signage Market

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

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

1. Mounting Solutions:

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

2. Cables/Cable Management:

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

3. Power and Connectivity:

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

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

4. Thermal Management:

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

5. Network Integration:

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

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

See you next time, Behind the Panel!

Patrick Booth, BDM

About the Author

Patrick Booth | CTS, DSCE

Business Development Manager

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

5 Reasons to Invest in Training

Whether you are the owner of a small AV integration firm or a manager at a large national integrator, chances are, you are faced with the same struggle of finding the time to attend training for yourself or send your employees for training. Oftentimes, this can be costly and time consuming. However, the benefits of a highly trained workforce will almost always outweigh the short term costs.

Here are 5 reasons you should consider training for yourself or for your staff:

1. Staying on Top of the Latest Technology Trends

I think we can all agree that, like many industries, the world of commercial AV technology is constantly changing and evolving, not only with the technology itself, but with the needs of our customers. A few examples include the major advancements in Direct View LED (DVLED) for large video-wall displays, and the skills required for successful installations. If you are not aware of the latest trends or not equipped to handle them, you may find yourself losing business to competitors.

2. Enhance Customer Service

Think about a time when you were interested in making a purchase (any type of purchase — it doesn’t have to be technology), and you felt your salesperson was not educated about the product. How did that make you feel about that company? Your customers will always get better service from a well-trained employee, whether it is your salesperson, project manager, or installation technician.

3. Keep Your Certifications Current

While there are many certifications in our industry, the most common and well recognized is AVIXA’s CTS. The CTS, CTS-I, and CTS-D are important designations and require a significant amount of time and effort to achieve. Any CTS holder understands the importance of continuing education and obtaining CTS RUs in order to maintain their certification. RUs can be obtained in a variety of different methods, including live classroom training and various trade events, like the Exertis Almo E4, and webinars.

Customer Service

4. Less Supervision

As an owner or manager, you are faced with the difficult challenge of running your business and managing employees, often while being involved in work that could be handled by properly trained employees, freeing you up for other tasks. Well-trained employees will be able to work more independently without the need for constant guidance and will help your staff be more confident and satisfied in their job.

5. Reduce Employee Turnover

Hiring new employees can be time consuming, expensive, and involve risk if the right hire is not made. Providing training opportunities for your employees shows them your interest in advancing their professional skills and will enhance company loyalty and increase employee contributions to your business. Often, employees thrive on knowing they are a key contributor to their company as much as they enjoy monetary compensation.

Exertis Almo’s E4 Experience has stops in DC Metro on March 5th, and in Chicago on April 16th. In addition to an exhibit hall with the newest technology from over 40 top manufacturers, attendees will have the ability to earn AVIXA CTS RUs throughout the day via classroom training. If you are in one of these regions, I encourage you to invest your time with us for this free one-day event.

Brian Rhatigan headshot
About the Author

Brian Rhatigan | CTS, DSCE

Director of Business Development

Supported Manufacturers: Epson (NE, SE, MW), Huddly, Kramer, Jabra

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