Video conference room design is about so much more than the latest technological advancements in meeting room audio and video. Naturally, both are essential to a successful room design and will be discussed in further detail below. However, some areas tend to be overlooked during the initial stage of conception. The focus always seems to be on sight and sound. The complete package entails much more. This article will cover some of the most important features that are needed to create the ideal video conference set-up.
- Room layout – The configuration of the room can make or break the quality of the video conference room design. The area must be configured so that each person in the room and the remote users that are logging in can see and hear everything being said and displayed. Space should be selected that does not have odd angles or too many windows. The acoustics should be considered along with the size of the room.
- Lighting – Video conference room design should encompass an appropriate lighting system. If a room is too bright, it may be difficult to see the video. If there are large windows, heavy curtains are a must. Wall lighting or recessed lighting is far superior and less glaring than overhead fixtures.
- Video Technology – It is called video conferencing for a reason. The remote attendees will connect via WiFi or some other type of connectivity using their smartphones, laptops, desktop computers, or tablets. They will need a clear view of the room and the principals leading the meeting. There may also be exhibits shown via whiteboards or high-definition screens that need to be seen clearly by the remote participants, as well as the people in the room. The video equipment must be able to provide a clear image. Significant advancements in video technology have been made since the days of webcams. Clarity of picture is at an all-time high.
- Audio Technology – If it can be seen, it needs to be heard. New audio technology is crystal clear, even at lower volumes. This is important given the fact that the individuals in physical attendance can hear the speaker or speakers because of proximity. Remote attendees need to be able to hear well using the devices at their disposal, whether it is a smartphone or a laptop.
- Noise Reduction and Acoustics – The ambient noise ratio should be low. Noises from outside of the conference room should not be a distraction. The quieter the video conference room design, the better the sound quality of the equipment.
There are any number of video conference room design solutions that will fit a given situation. Hiring A/V integrators from a reputable firm will make the job much simpler. The integrators at Data Projections will help with the room design and the implementation of the latest and most appropriate audio/visual technology available. Their design engineers will work closely with the client to bring about the ideal conference room. One that is extremely useful and flexible enough to be upgraded as new technology becomes available or company needs change.