In the modern workplace, the conference room is a hub for collaboration, brainstorming, and decision-making. With the rise of remote work and virtual meetings, it has become even more important for conference rooms to be equipped with smart technology solutions that encourage communication and productivity. It can be difficult to keep up with the latest and greatest in conference room technology, so we’ve put together a guide to help you navigate the options and find the best solutions for your organization.
Smart Technology Ideas for Conference Rooms
In the fast-paced world of modern business, a smart conference room can make all the difference. With the large variety of options and technology on the market, narrowing down the best choices for your company can be hard. Here are some ideas for improving your conference room.
Lighting Control Systems
Lighting can make a big difference in the overall atmosphere of a conference room. Traditional fluorescent lighting can be harsh and unpleasant, not to mention boring. By installing a smart lighting system, you can customize the lighting to fit the needs of each meeting. This can include dimming the lights for presentations or changing the color and intensity for brainstorming sessions. This allows you to control the ambiance and set the tone for more productive meetings.
Aperture Speakers
Sound quality is often overlooked but is essential for remote meetings. Small aperture speakers are a smart addition to any conference room, providing clear, high-quality audio without detracting from the room’s aesthetics. These discreet speakers blend into the walls and ceilings. They also offer excellent sound dispersion, ensuring that everyone in the room can hear and participate in the conversation.
Motorized Blinds
Motorized blinds are a game-changer for conference rooms with windows. They allow you to control natural light levels, reducing glare during presentations and creating a comfortable atmosphere. With automated schedules or simple remote controls, you can adjust the shades to enhance visibility and focus, making your meetings more effective. Some shades can recognize sunlight and automatically adjust throughout the day, optimizing natural light for your meetings. This takes controlling the shades completely off your plate.
Smart TVs
A large smart TV can transform your conference room into a versatile meeting space. It provides a central display for presentations, video conferences, and collaborative work. With features like screen mirroring and integrated apps, smart TVs are a great addition to any conference room. These smart TVs can be as large as 98 inches, making them perfect for large conference rooms or boardrooms.
Digital Whiteboards
Digital whiteboards take traditional note-taking to a whole new level. These interactive screens allow participants to write, draw, and present right from their devices. With features like virtual sticky notes and real-time collaboration, digital whiteboards make brainstorming and idea sharing more engaging. They also get rid of the need for physical whiteboards, saving space and reducing clutter in your conference room.
Video Conferencing Solutions
As we all know, remote work has become more of the norm in recent years. According to the Pew Research Center, around 22 million employed adults (aged 18 and over) in the U.S. work from home all the time, equal to roughly 14% of all employed adults. With the right equipment, you can have seamless virtual meetings with people from all over the world. High-definition cameras, microphones, and speakers are some of the components for a complete video conferencing setup.
Soundbars with Integrated Cameras
Instead of having separate cameras and speakers, soundbars with integrated cameras are becoming popular. They provide a sleek and compact solution for video conferencing, with high-quality audio and visual capabilities. Some even come with built-in microphones, reducing the need for additional equipment. We recommend a Jabra or Leon soundbar with an integrated camera, as it offers exceptional audio and video quality for virtual meetings. These soundbars also are designed to match the look and feel of any modern conference room.
Microphone Setups
It can be very difficult to hold a virtual meeting if the participants can’t hear each other clearly. By investing in a high-end microphone setup, you can make sure everyone’s voice is heard loud and clear. There are various options for microphone setups, such as ceiling microphones or table-mounted ones. It’s important to consider the size and layout of your conference room when choosing a microphone setup. For larger rooms, investing in multiple microphones strategically placed throughout the space may be best.
Internet Connection
Without a high-speed connection, audio and video quality can suffer, leading to a frustrating meeting experience. It’s important to have a reliable internet service provider and make sure your conference room is equipped with strong Wi-Fi or wired connections. You may also want to invest in network boosters or extenders if you have a large office space.
As the world moves towards remote work and a gig economy, virtual meetings have become a common part of business communication. With the right equipment and setup, virtual meetings can be just as effective as in-person ones. A modern conference room can enable your business to grow and stay ahead of the curve.
Benefits of Upgrading a Conference Room
Investing in smart technology for your conference room can offer many benefits that go beyond just modernizing the space. Here is what you can expect from upgrading your conference room:
Elevated Communication
With high-quality audio and visual systems, every participant, whether in-person or remote, can engage in the discussion. This is one of the largest benefits of upgrading a conference room. Increased communication makes for smoother meetings and, ultimately, a better chance at success.
Focused Work
By integrating smart technology, such as automated lighting controls, motorized shades, and audio solutions, you can create an environment free from distractions. This means no more fiddling with the lights or struggling to hear over background noise. With a focused work environment, meetings can run more efficiently.
Employee Morale and Collaboration
When employees feel that their workplace is equipped with the latest tools and technologies, it boosts their sense of value and engagement. This can show employees that the company is committed to growth and innovation, leading to increased morale and collaboration within the team.
Client and Partner Perception
First impressions are everything in business, and a state-of-the-art conference room can impress clients and partners. It shows that your business is technologically advanced and committed to providing the best experience for all parties involved. Poor audio or video quality can negatively impact your business and may even lead to missed opportunities.
By investing in smart technology, you’re not just upgrading a room—you’re enhancing your entire workplace experience.
Transform Your Conference Room with AIS
Installing smart technology in your conference room can transform it into a more productive and efficient space. If you own a company or are an HR professional, upgrading your conference room can also show your employees that you value their time and prioritize innovation and collaboration. Partnering with a smart technology solutions provider, like AIS, can help you find the right technology for your specific needs and budget. Our team of experts works with you to design and install a custom solution that will elevate your conference room experience. Contact us today to learn more.
