3 Ways Conference Room Design Can Impact AV Choices

Office audio-visual systems may be more crucial now than ever before. This technology not only allows those physically present in the office to share information more effectively, but it also allows for better remote communication. As more workers spend more time working from home, it's critical to keep communication lines open between on and off-site employees.

In conference rooms, high-quality AV equipment and, more importantly, thoughtful system design can make a world of difference. Surprisingly, the physical layout of your conference room can significantly impact your design options and requirements. Although there are many more considerations to take into account, these are three of the most critical.

1. Available Wall Space

Conference rooms come in all shapes and sizes, from relatively small utilitarian spaces to open designs intended to make a real impact on their occupants. Your company's culture and specific needs likely influenced your conference room's plan, but those choices can impact your AV options. In particular, available wall space may limit your display options.

If you intend to install several large displays, it's usually best to mount them on walls where possible. Installing displays in front of windows is perfectly feasibly, but the mounts and wiring can sometimes be unsightly or require special considerations. Individual table displays are another option when wall space is at a premium.

2. Acoustics

You may not be using your conference rooms as a concert space, but you should never ignore acoustics. When your employees are teleconferencing with remote workers or teams at other locations, they must hear them loudly and clearly. Adding more speakers or louder amplifiers is not always a satisfactory solution to overcome poor room acoustics.

Fortunately, acoustic issues are not impossible to overcome. Consulting with an AV professional before you begin purchasing equipment is usually the best option. They can evaluate your space, recommend upgrades to improve room acoustics, and help you choose components that will work for your particular situation.

3. Existing Infrastructure

Bringing technology into a conference room for the first time can come with its own unique set of challenges. Before beginning to install your new equipment, you may need to consider electrical and networking upgrades. Although wireless networking can be an option in some cases, conference rooms usually demand the reliability of wired networking connections.

If you plan on installing a large number of cameras, microphones, and displays, then you'll need to consult with a professional installer to determine the best approach. A seamless installation may require modifying walls or ceilings, but you can often achieve good results using cable raceways or similar options that don't need structural modifications.

Many practical benefits come with bringing your company's conference rooms into the 21st century, but doing so in a cost-effective way means keeping your existing layout in mind. Always consult with an experienced AV installer to determine the best options for your unique situation.

If you have additional questions, contact a local office AV systems service.


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