Volume 12, Issue 22 — November 20, 2019

RaveEd — Volume 12, Issue 22 — November 20, 2019

November 20, 2019 | Volume: 12 | Issue: 22

I know our American readers are in the thick of work right now as we all make that final push before Thanksgiving break. We’re almost there! But that doesn’t mean the work stops while we’re gone! Especially in this industry, where things are continually updating and changing, and therefore need servicing, spec’ing, installation, etc. But anyway, here’s the news.

We have a couple of interesting columns for you today. Scott Tiner makes some interesting points on the intersection of social media and the AV industry. If we didn’t use social media in our industry, it would be a total waste and a loss. But as we all know, social media is also the root of many of today’s societal issues. So, where is the line, and how do we avoid crossing it? Also, Tony Sprando writes about the wow factor in AV and how it’s often overrated. Why? Because customers — whether they be big businesses, houses of worship or universities — don’t usually want the wow factor. They want something that works!

In other news, Visix has released a new update for its AxisTV digital signage platform. Barco launched a 3D project visualization system they call Canvas. ScreenBeam 1100 has a new update that features native Google Cast. And, you may have heard the rumors, soon Zoom and Microsoft Teams will be natively interoperable. We love to see it!

Later, #AVtweeps!

–Steph Beckett

COLUMNS

+ Social Media – Blessing or Curse? [Scott Tiner]

Like so many industries, the AV industry has a robust and valuable community in the social media sphere. Many of us have dozens, if not hundreds of contacts and “friends” that we know only via social media. While we have opportunities to catch up and meet during industry events, including the always popular tweet-ups, the majority of our interaction is virtual.

+ Why the Wow Factor Is Overrated [Tony Sprando]

I believe that for the AV industry, the wow factor is totally overrated. I have found that at the end of every project I have completed, my customers weren’t looking for the wow factor. They just wanted a system that was easy to operate.

+ Soon Zoom and Microsoft Teams Will Be Natively Interoperable [Gary Kayye]

Zoom and Microsoft have worked together to enhance conference room interoperability and simplify how you connect to third-party meetings. How? The companies are collaborating to provide interoperability between both conference room solutions and streamlined meeting experiences. Available in early 2020, Zoom Rooms will be able to join Microsoft Teams meetings, and Microsoft Teams Rooms will be able to join Zoom meetings, all without the purchase of additional licenses or third-party services.