The Smart Stage at CEDIA Expo and Commercial Integrator Expo 2024 served as a hub for discussions on pivotal industry topics, breakthrough technologies and trending vertical markets within residential and commercial technology. Designed to foster learning and idea exchange, the Smart Stage featured an array of panel discussions and presentations, bringing together some of the industry’s most influential voices.

The Smart Stage engaged attendees in meaningful dialogues that addressed technical advancements and spotlighted integrators’ evolving role in design, building and consumer relationships. From exploring lighting and shading solutions that enhance client experiences to discussing the expanding applications of digital signage and 8K, the Smart Stage panels were curated to equip integrators with practical insights and strategies for thriving in a competitive and fast-evolving market.

Experts addressed the latest innovations and challenges, presenting four key takeaways:

Industry Leaders Highlight Growth, Challenges and Future Trends

At CEDIA Expo 2024, Arlen Schweiger, Editor-in-Chief of CE Pro, welcomed attendees to the Smart Stage for the “State of the Industry” panel. Industry leaders, including Darryl Friedman, John Robbins and others, shared insights on the health of the custom installation industry, largely rating it between 7 and 9 on a 10-point scale. The panelists discussed key topics, including the ongoing strength of lighting, shading and energy management, with integrators exploring high-performance home entertainment and aging-in-place technology. The panelists emphasized the increase in cost-saving measures, leveraging peer education and strengthening internal communications to support the continued transformation in business operations.

Additionally, the panelists discussed challenges, which centered on industry awareness among builders, architects and consumers, with calls for greater visibility of integrators’ expertise. They emphasized training and leadership development, while encouraging integrators to better understand business fundamentals, boosting both skills and profitability. Looking ahead, the panel expects AI integration, energy management and AV-as-a-service to grow in significance while also anticipating a stronger economy by late 2025.

The Future of Content Creation and Viewing with the 8K Association

The panel, led by Juan Reyes of the 8K Association, focused on the advancements and adoption of 8K technology across the content ecosystem, including creation, distribution and integration. Panelists included Ravi Velhal from Intel, Bob Gorelick, award-winning camera operator, and Eilbron Khoshabeh from BZB Gear.

The panelists highlighted the benefits of 8K, such as enhanced visual detail and immersive viewing experiences, demonstrated through examples like the Paris Olympics, which Intel live-streamed globally in 8K. The panel emphasized 8 K’s application in sports, healthcare and broadcasting, supported by advancements in encoding, specifically with VVC technology that enables high-quality streaming at reduced bit rates. The panelists noted the industry’s skepticism around 8K, but emphasized that its potential is extensive, and they encouraged integrators and consumers to be “future-ready” as both 8K displays and content production become more mainstream.

The Art of Integrating Natural and Interior Lighting for Optimal Client Experiences

The panel, led by Melissa Andresco, chief corporate brand ambassador for Lutron Electronics, explored the art of balancing natural and interior lighting to create cohesive, client-centered designs. The panelists discussed the importance of synergy between integrators, architects and designers and emphasized how collaborative efforts can enhance environments, blending daylight and artificial lighting to align with clients’ lifestyles and design preferences.

The panel highlighted key topics, including Lutron’s legacy of innovation in lighting control and the introduction of Ketra, a system designed to mirror natural light indoors, enhance wellness, and preserve interiors. By focusing on solutions like automated shading and intelligent lighting systems, the panel uncovered ways to manage glare, optimize light for artwork and furnishings, and create a seamless connection to the outdoors. They concluded with strategies for guiding clients through the latest lighting technologies, fostering environments where natural and artificial light complement each other beautifully.

Leveraging Digital Signage to Enhance Corporate Unity

Dan Ferrisi, group editor, commercial and security at Emerald, hosted a panel with Michelle Loret from AVCoIP and Lainie Mataras from Planar, to discuss digital signage’s evolving role in corporate communications. The panel emphasized the importance of cohesive and inclusive content strategies, noting that corporate communications should reach both in-office and remote employees consistently to foster unity and reflect company values authentically.

Michelle highlighted that digital signage, often underutilized, can transform how companies communicate by aligning internal and external messages. Lainie stressed the need for a mindful approach to content creation, using signage to engage employees effectively and ensure that corporate messaging resonates across the workforce. The panelists emphasized the potential for integrators to partner with content providers to keep messaging fresh and relevant, avoiding static displays that diminish engagement.

The Smart Stage pioneered conversations on industry growth, 8K advancements, lighting integration, digital signage, and much more. These discussions offered attendees insights and strategies to navigate the evolving landscape of residential and commercial technology. To catch up on all the latest developments and dive deeper into the Smart Stage highlights from CEDIA Expo and Commercial Integrator Expo 2024, visit https://cediaexpo.com/attend/smart-stage/.