For the AV Industry, Public Schools and Universities require very different needs from the typical executive boardroom and workspaces. For higher-ed, AV technology provides numerous benefits making their facilities more attractive to students shopping for undergraduate and graduate programs. This means investing in hybrid classrooms that support remote learning, video walls, digital signage around campus, and advanced presentation capabilities.

The Role of Video in Higher Ed

Whether it’s adding digital signage, replacing old displays, or integrating some newer technologies, an integrator can be brought into a situation at any stage. We have identified four key attributes of successful video solutions for higher-ed.

Ease of Use – Students and professors of varying backgrounds and technical abilities can post many issues for AV/IT managers. Limitations of technical backgrounds can make it difficult to find the balance between high-tech state-of-the-art solutions, and technologies that are easy enough to use. To combat this, there is always setting aside time to train staff on how to use the proposed technologies. But this doesn’t always solve the problem, it’s best to be thorough, making sure the technology is user-friendly, and intuitive enough for the end user.

Flexibility – When selecting a technology for a diverse group of users, you could run into the problem of proposing a technology with lots of features that eventually go unused. It’s best to keep in mind that these institutions are always looking to expand and upgrade to keep their school competitive, trying to attract students and experience faculty. Focus on flexible solutions capable of supporting a wide array of applications for video such as livestreaming, capturing a lecture, remote learning and even video marketing.

Practicality – A crucial element for integrators is the ability to manage. Since many schools are equipping spaces with streaming and recording equipment, large campuses are a lot to manage. Make sure you aren’t adding more responsibility on support staff. Proposing solutions that are easy to manage is paramount. Technologies that are capable of easy breakdown/setup that can be centrally managed is key.

Compatibility – Depending on the AV already employed, it’s a no-brainer that compatibility is essential. Some classrooms may already be equipped with cameras and microphones…some with content management systems. Although this is common sense for most integrators, be aware of compatibility when it comes to proposing new technologies when they have a preference with manufacturers. Respect the technology eco-system that they have in place.

Yes, there is a lot to consider on both sides. Luckily, it all starts with identifying the exact needs of the institution. Considering the four factors listed above, client satisfaction is inevitable if integrators can balance ease-of-use, flexibility, practicality, and compatibility.

VisionPoint has almost two decades of experience designing, integrating, and supporting AV solutions for educational institutions of all kinds. You can reach out to VisionPoint at anytime with questions.

For the AV Industry, Public Schools and Universities require very different needs from the typical executive boardroom and workspaces. For higher-ed, AV technology provides numerous benefits making their facilities more attractive to students shopping for undergraduate and graduate programs. This means investing in hybrid classrooms that support remote learning, video walls, digital signage around campus, and advanced presentation capabilities.