The audiovisual industry is known for rapid innovation, and the transition from analog to digital formats is no exception. The shift from analog to digital has transformed every element of audiovisual systems and forever altered the manner in which participants leverage this powerful technology. Digital technology has infiltrated the home office, television, and smartphones. Of course, the workplace is also subject to the effects of digital technology.

If your organization has yet to pivot from analog to digital technology, it’s time to make the change. Consider your organization’s needs and potential roadblocks, while implementing the following practices for a smooth transition to a more efficient form of audiovisual technology.

Areas of Concern When Transitioning from Analog to Digital Technology

Outdated technology can have a detrimental effect on your company’s reputation and hinder the flow of information. However, updating to modern audiovisual technologies has the power to improve business processes in a multitude of ways. Efficient digital technologies improve collaboration, communication, and productivity in the workplace.

Of course, with new tools come new challenges. Companies seeking to benefit from a move to digital AV technology should work with experienced audiovisual integrators to eliminate the following issues and improve workflow. 

Audio Delays

While certain audio systems are intended to have a slight delay to reduce feedback, unintended delays can cause significant issues during a call or presentation. Digital audio systems are sometimes equipped with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth systems for convenience and connectivity. On occasion, these functionalities may cause delays if the devices in use are not communicating data effectively to one another. As a result, the sound may be unintelligible or delayed. 

VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) can also cause significant audio issues. VoIP technology converts the sound of a participant’s voice into a digital signal that may be transmitted through computers, a VoIP phone, or other data-centric devices. 

Experienced audiovisual integration specialists can resolve delays with relative ease to provide optimal audio quality, as well as establish the proper sound settings and ensure that each element of your audio equipment works together seamlessly for the best possible results.

Inadequate Displays

If participants are unable to view information during a presentation adequately, this can reflect poorly on your organization and disrupt the transmission of information. Typically, legibility issues arise when the screen size is not suitable for the size of the room. While many organizations utilize projection screens, flatscreen displays, or LED walls, the displays in use must possess the appropriate dimensions in relation to the room size. Although flatscreen displays are sufficient for huddle rooms or small meeting rooms, a large conference room may require a projection screen or an expansive LED wall.

To ensure that all participants remain engaged during a presentation, audiovisual integrators will assess the size of the room in question and choose the appropriate solution. As your company transitions from analog displays to digital displays, audiovisual integrators can also incorporate HD video conferencing solutions, complete with master touch panels and user-touch panels.

Outdated Software or Hardware

Gone are the days when software or hardware can run for years on end before requiring an update or an entire replacement. With today’s fast-moving advancements, new software is often incompatible with older devices and vice-versa. If your organization is currently using analog technologies, it’s time for an upgrade. However, it can be difficult to gauge which new solutions meet your needs and will provide reasonable longevity for your investment. 

Professional audiovisual integrators can help you navigate available technologies to find the right fit of AV tools and systems to fulfill your requirements in the long term. 

For example, many organizations benefit from modern touch control panels that allow participants to alter audio and visual elements as needed. Modern audio solutions include audio Digital Signal Processors (DSP) and collaboration tools such as Crestron AirMedia, which allow users to connect their mobile and desktop devices wirelessly to visual displays with ease.

Poor Lighting

The most common lighting issues in buildings with outdated equipment arise from the failure to choose lighting fixtures that suit the uses of each room. Although the participants are typically in the room, some buildings require lighting features that suit presentations that are on camera. Lighting that is too bright may distract presenters, and low lighting may induce eye strain or fatigue.

The solution to these issues requires equipment that provides auxiliary control of the room’s lighting so that users can adjust the lighting to their preference. Audiovisual integrators can offer updated lighting solutions that suit the dimensions of each room, complemented by modern digital control panels that transform your space by allowing participants to alter lighting as needed.

Best Practices for a Transition from Analog to Digital 

The digitalization of your organization’s audio and visual equipment has the potential to increase the effectiveness of every presentation or discussion that takes place. However, companies must maximize each tool at their disposal for the optimal audiovisual experience. This entails incorporating a comprehensive, multi-pronged approach, including considerations such as touch-screen capabilities, a high-quality audio system, and stunning visual design. As a result, all participants will have an improved experience, increased productivity, and efficient collaboration.

In 2014, leaders at the Clarence Brown Conference Center realized their need for updated, digital audiovisual solutions. To resolve their issues, specialists at AGT chose to implement cutting-edge technologies, including a Crestron Digital Media HD video distribution system complete with master-touch panels and user touch panels. In addition, they decided to install technologies that allow phone and volume control and an audio Digital Signal Processor (DSP) to improve the overall audio quality. With the assistance of AGT, the Clarence Brown Conference Center made the transition from an outdated analog system to a revolutionary digital system. 

For organizations to remain relevant, they must ensure that their business leverages the most technologically advanced systems that are currently available. Poor audio and outdated visual equipment will only tarnish your company’s reputation and impede efficiency. A fully digital audiovisual system allows employees and guests to collaborate and interact with one another using the most advanced means available, empowering your organization to reap the benefits of an improved brand image and streamlined business processes.

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