Tech Paper: Today s Customer Demo Center Captivates Guests

Transcription

1 Tech Paper Today s Customer Demo Center Captivates Guests Imagine your guests interacting directly with your products and services through an interactive display or discussing questions and ideas with experts, who are located all around the globe, via video conferencing. In the modern, high-tech demo or experience center, this type of hands-on, immersive experience is possible. Through interactive technologies, such as multi-touch video walls, 2D/3D visualization, and video collaboration, companies are creating deep, memorable experiences that captivate, educate, and ultimately lead to increased sales. This paper provides a deep dive into the technologies used in the corporate demo spaces and discusses important technical aspects and Through interactive technologies, such as multi-touch video walls, 2D/3D visualization, and video collaboration, companies are creating a deeper, more memorable experience for guests. best practices that help with purchase considerations. 1 Tech Paper: Today s Customer Demo Center Captivates Guests (+01)

2 Interactive displays create new ways to engage From touch-table displays to large video walls, interactive displays offer a variety of ways for users to engage with company products and services. Through interactive technology, customers select information Key based on their own interests or business needs. They can also enjoy a hands-on, simulated real-use experience that increases their depth of understanding of the solution they are considering purchasing. Finally, because interactive technology is cutting edge, it positions companies who deploy it as innovative, modern, and technologically savvy. Type of display Display size Placement Image quality Content creation There are different types of interactive displays: video walls, touch displays, interactive whiteboards, and kiosks. The kind of information shared and the design of the demo space will dictate what type of display is best. A single touch display is good for letting one guest at a time navigate company solutions or initiate a demo, whereas a video wall invites multiple users at the same time to explore one aspect of a company s offerings before moving to the next. Touch-table displays work well in generating group discussions and don t require a large wall surface like a video wall, while small interactive kiosks provide an opportunity for self-discovery. All displays should be large enough to be seen by the majority of viewers. This can be done with a single large display or by grouping several smaller displays into an interactive video wall. Choose display sizes based on the size of the space they will serve and the distance of the viewer from those displays. Content type will determine whether a portrait or landscape mounting is most appropriate. Landscape orientations work best with videos, whereas text-based content (like a schedule of events) is suited to a portrait presentation or if the image is best displayed vertically. For a video wall, make sure you have a large wall surface with enough horizontal and vertical space for mounting, as well as adequate structural support behind the wall. Viewer distance and sightlines should also be considered for wallmounted displays. For table tops and kiosks, determine if there is adequate space for traffic to flow around the display. Consider the amount of ambient light entering the room as well as the type of content that will be displayed to determine the appropriate resolution and brightness. For rooms with significant ambient light or where video images will be the predominate content, select a high-resolution display. If ambient light is high, you will need a display capable of 1,500 cd/m2 or greater. Content can include interactive and non-interactive elements, motion graphics and static images, RSS feeds, and local content. Content creation can either be outsourced to a graphic design team knowledgeable in digital signage content or done in house. New software, like Flypaper, is making it easier than ever before to create outstanding interactive, multi-touch, or motion graphic content with little or no training. 2 Tech Paper: Today s Customer Demo Center Captivates Guests (+01)

3 Key (Cont d) Content management system Interactive technology Flexible use Digital signage (DS) content management systems (CMS) can be hardware- or software-based and deployed on-premise or as a hosted solution. Selecting the right CMS will depend on your signage strategy. For instance, the number of players on the network and how often you manage your content will affect this decision. Features include: network support, online management, interactivity with smartphones, content scheduling options, support of HD and 3D content, inclusion of emergency messaging or wayfinding options, content authoring, and tracking and analysis. With the varying and ever-increasing resolution of video feeds and graphics, it s also important to select a CMS with the flexibility and versatility to grow and adapt as system requirements change. Avoid proprietary systems that do not adhere to open standards for packaging, delivery, and display of content as these systems may not be able to accommodate new content delivery methods. To ensure future scalability of the system, consider a 4K-enabled solution. Look for a processor that is able to accept a range of input signals, media, and connector types. Multi-touch technology enables multiple users to simultaneously interact with a display. It is particularly useful for interaction scenarios with large-format video walls and touch tables that are intended for use by several people at once. Single-point touch sensing is best for smaller, interactive displays and kiosks. Interactive displays can be used as digital signage, pushing specific content messages at specific times; as interactive whiteboards for company meetings; and for video conferencing and collaboration. How and where displays are mounted, such as using wall and ceiling mounts that offer tilt and swivel adjustments, will also increase a display s ability to be used for both large and small audience gatherings. 3 Tech Paper: Today s Customer Demo Center Captivates Guests (+01)

4 Video walls captivate and engage audiences Video wall displays offer a chance for companies to impress guests. These high-tech displays create an important wow factor with Key bigger-than-life images or the ability to show product examples to scale. With technologies like 3D visualization, multi-touch interactivity, and 4K+ resolutions, video walls can be used in a variety of innovative and engaging ways in a customer experience center or demo space. Display technology Placement Interactive technology Content delivery From video walls that simply push out content to those that offer 3D visualization or multi-touch technology, the type of display technology that is best for your space will depend on what you want to achieve. 3D visualization offers a truly immersive experience and works well for data visualization applications such as viewing medical content or 3D maps, as well as for simulated environments. If you need to push out a variety of content at different times, digital signage may be the most appropriate choice. Interactive displays are effective at engaging guests with the content for self-learning experiences. Interactive displays can also be equipped with content-sharing capabilities that are useful for video collaboration applications. If interactive content doesn t promote audience engagement, or the amount of time a person is expected to engage with display s content is limited, then a noninteractive solution is preferable. Consider ambient light issues, viewer distances, height and width of the wall and its structural integrity to sustain the video display when selecting a location. If using a rear-projection setup, you must also make sure you have enough space behind the screen to install the system. There are two types of optical infrared light systems that can be used in video walls: imager-based and sensor-based. Imagerbased systems are built with two or four cameras in the corners of the display. Sensor-based systems use a series of sensors along one or two edges of the display. Overall, imager-based systems are more affordable, but support fewer touches, don t have the highest image quality, and are less reliable than sensor-based systems. Technologies like Microsoft Kinect may be both imagerbased and sensor-based. A content management system (CMS) is the best way to push a variety of content to your video wall. Features to consider when selecting a CMS include network support, management from any location, interactivity with smartphones, content scheduling options, support of HD and 3D content, inclusion of emergency messaging or wayfinding options, content authoring, and the ability to support multiple interactive and multi-touch displays. With the varying and ever-increasing resolution of video feeds and graphics, it s also important to select a CMS with the flexibility and versatility to grow and adapt as system requirements change. Avoid proprietary systems that do not adhere to open standards for packaging, delivery, and display of content as these systems may not be able to accommodate new content delivery methods. To ensure future scalability of the system, consider a 4K-enabled solution that is able to accept a range of input signals, media, and connector types. 4 Tech Paper: Today s Customer Demo Center Captivates Guests (+01)

5 Key (Cont d) Image quality Bezel width Durability In interactive and 3D visualization displays, a high resolution is important to ensuring the content is clear and sharp at any viewing angle and distance, particularly close up, where pixilation would be an issue. New, UltraHD (or 4K) displays offer increased resolution and should result in noticeably improved picture quality for very large screen sizes. Even though there is not a lot of 4K content currently available, large 4K displays still create a higher-quality viewing experience than HD via upscaling and is necessary for glasses-free 3D viewing. In order for a video wall display to look like it s a single display, it s important to select the thinnest bezel width your budget allows. A narrow bezel also allows for a more accurate and responsive interactive touch experience. Video walls with interactive technology, where users will be frequently touching the display screen, must withstand continuous contact on a regular, consistent basis. Look for LCD displays that have optically bonded, scratch-resistant glass. Rearprojection LED screens are also a good choice as they typically have durable, easy-to-clean acrylic screens. 5 Tech Paper: Today s Customer Demo Center Captivates Guests (+01)

6 Video collaboration brings experts and customers together Your company or industry experts can be a powerful tool in the selling process. However, they may work remotely across the country or around the globe. Video collaboration technology allows you to bring experts and Key Type of collaboration solution Peripherals customers together, in the same room, to discuss and answer questions about your company s solutions. The same technology can be used for meetings between executives of both companies or by employees for internal collaboration and idea-sharing with offsite peers, further increasing your overall return on investment. Telepresence is the most expensive video conferencing option because it offers an appearance of being present in the same room, with some systems able to incorporate 3D and holographic images to create a highly immersive experience. A dedicated room collaboration system can offer all the necessary technologies and applications in one complete package, including a unified communications (UC) solution such as Lync, an interactive display or whiteboard, content-sharing capabilities, and highquality video and audio. Desktop deployment works well for oneon-one collaboration and can also utilize a UC solution such as Lync. Such solutions can be deployed as cloud, on-premise and hybrid solutions. A small, professional-quality table-top or a ceiling microphone that connects to an audio system will provide superior sound quality and reduce background noise. Headsets are another option in open spaces to reduce background noise. From simple webcams integrated into a display to full HD cameras with voice-tracking software to locate faces of participants currently speaking, there is a wide range of video conferencing cameras available. At a minimum, a camera with pan, tilt, zoom (PTZ), HD 1080p resolution and 60-frames-per-second capabilities is recommended. Ease of use Interoperability Flexible hosting Selecting a system that is easy for demo staff and visitors to operate and connect is critical to its success. Cloud-based and unified communications (UC) solutions that are designed to be BYOD-friendly and integrate with office scheduling software may also increase ease of use. Select a video collaboration solution that is standards-based, which means it can accommodate multiple devices and platforms. This will allow for a BYOD-friendly environment, which is particularly useful when guests participate in video collaboration with their own devices. There are a variety of hosting options available, including cloud-based and on-premise. Cloud-based options are popular due to their ease of use and off-premise support. Cloud-based options are also likely to be BYOD friendly. In the traditional onpremise approach, the customer owns, operates and manages the hardware, storage, network and other components. Here, the benefit is full control over network conditions and reduced reliance on external networks and the public Internet, which can have variations in service quality. All hosting options can offer multi-site solutions if you need to talk with more than one location at once. IT support capabilities, network infrastructure, types of applications, integration with unified communications, and budget will ultimately dictate what type of solution and hosting option is best. 6 Tech Paper: Today s Customer Demo Center Captivates Guests (+01)

7 Sophisticated audio systems allow flexible use of space Since many demo or experience centers are open environments with a lot of reflective surfaces, using the appropriate acoustical materials and audio technologies is imperative Key Physical space/sound areas to sound clarity. Using zoned audio allows different guest experience centers to operate at the same time while delivering optimal audio to all spaces. Audio systems can also be connected to remote devices such as smartphones or tablets so that personnel can manage them even while mobile. It s important to consider how sound will move around the space. If you will have more than one group passing through at a time, you may need zoned audio, sound barrier panels, or a soundmasking system. Demo areas with smaller sub-areas will require zoned audio. Type of speakers Speaker placement Type of microphones Acoustical panels If your space is being designed as an open area with specific stations for audio, directional audio speakers will keep sound from bleeding over into other spaces. Bi-directional speakers can be used if the area is intended for only one group at a time. In areas where directional audio is preferred, as with individualized demo areas, place speakers directly above the audience. For large areas where the audience is dispersed, bidirectional speakers can deliver clear sound throughout the room. Consider how presenters will use microphones in each particular area. In smaller areas, a console or podium-mounted microphone may be adequate, while portable wireless microphones can offer greater flexibility in larger areas. If a presenter will be walking through the space with a group, consider a lavalier or clip-on microphone to allow the presenter to move effortlessly about the space. For video conference purposes, table-top or ceiling mounted microphones may be most appropriate. Use acoustic panels to create specific sound areas and to keep sound from bleeding over into adjacent spaces. In large, open spaces with a lot of hard, reflective surfaces, acoustic panels can improve audio clarity by preventing sound from bouncing around the room. 7 Tech Paper: Today s Customer Demo Center Captivates Guests (+01)

8 Control and management of the technology keeps everything running smoothly Control systems improve the operation of the technology in the space. Control systems can streamline the process of interacting with the technology, making it as simple as a press of a button to initiate an entire task, such as video conferencing with a remote office or to push content to your display. When there is a need for flexibility in how different spaces are used or when, a control solution simplifies system management. Control from a tablet or smartphone may be particularly useful in a demo area where groups are walking from one area to the next and staff needs the ability Key Functionality to control the technology and what content is being displayed from anywhere in the room. Below are some key considerations for an integrated control system. Assess your current staff and their capabilities to manage all the technology in the space. Video and content management, troubleshooting, and staying on top of maintenance issues such as updating software and hardware with the most current versions and drivers is critical to ensuring your demo space is always operational. If your staff s skills or capacity cannot address all these issues, outsourcing is a good option to make sure that the technology in your space is being appropriately managed so that you can maximize your investment in the space. The best control systems provide management and automation, system-wide switching and audio/video signal distribution, as well as digital signage, video conference calls, and technology management. Such systems are all networked and managed through a single centralized point in the building, and should control all AV functions as well as lighting and shades in many cases. User interface Interoperability Automation Look for features such as one-touch automated control of an entire system or the ability to operate the control system from a smartphone or tablet if remote operation is important. Work with your integrator to customize the user interface so that it s easy to operate. The control system should have the ability to control a broad range of devices, including all audio-visual equipment, video processors, and even room features such as blinds or lights. This allows the user to initiate complex, integrated AV systems with the touch of a button. It should run on the existing network, communicate with other devices on network, and connect with mobile devices for BYOD. Confirm that it offers compatible inputs and outputs for both the equipment you currently own and that which you plan to deploy. The system should process both analog and digital inputs. Along with the ability to automate message delivery for signage and control audio-visual equipment, some control systems can take on additional tasks, such as regulating thermostats and lighting in accordance with room and building occupancy. Advanced systems can also initiate a video conference, as well as activate room lighting and computers, with the push of a single button. 8 Tech Paper: Today s Customer Demo Center Captivates Guests (+01)

9 About the Sponsors AVI-SPL AVI-SPL is the world s leading integrator of communication and collaboration solutions that support organizations of all types. Our well-trained and certified engineers design, build, integrate and support systems for video collaboration, digital signage, 3D visualization, AV distribution and intelligent-building control. We also provide a wide range of remote and onsite support services, including cloud-based video conferencing. Chief Conclusion A high-tech customer demo space or experience center is an opportunity to create a highly individualized experience that represents the company s brand as well as its solutions. The information provided in this paper empowers you with the knowledge to ask the right questions and be a well-informed partner with your AV integrator so that your customer demo center is viable now and well into the future. Contact AVI-SPL today to learn more about how we can help. Chief is a division of Milestone AV Technologies. With over 35 years of proven product and service excellence, hundreds of product awards and patented designs, Chief is globally recognized as an AV industry leader. Chief is committed to delivering high-quality products that are easy to install and maintain, including state-of-the-art mount and rack solutions. SMART SMART Technologies Inc. is a leading provider of technology solutions like interactive flat panels for meeting spaces and research rooms. SMART is redefining the way the world works and learns. Its products enable inspired collaboration in schools and workplaces by turning group work into highly interactive, engaging and productive experiences. SMART delivers integrated solutions of hardware, software and services designed for superior performance and ease of use. 9 Tech Paper: Today s Customer Demo Center Captivates Guests (+01)