Pro AV Today

The Pro AV industry is in a period of rapid digital transformation, and partnerships between developers and manufacturers are increasingly gaining steam. In this episode of Pro AV Today, Tammy Fuqua and Adrien Avellan from Q-SYS shared their perspectives on why these partnerships are invaluable.

Companies like Q-SYS are actively courting external developers to expand and enhance their existing platforms. This approach brings a fresh influx of skills and ideas, effectively catalyzing innovation. Fuqua and Avellan discussed how their ecosystem allows external entities to collaborate in a dynamic environment, a strategy that has been a cornerstone for technology giants like Salesforce and Apple.

These external collaborations offer unique value propositions, including financial incentives and easier access to APIs and SDKs. The idea is to create an enabling environment that allows for the seamless development of innovative solutions. However, this isn't a one-way street; these partnerships come with their own sets of challenges. Compatibility issues, data privacy concerns, and the need for stringent quality assurance protocols can all pose hurdles. But as Fuqua and Avellan point out, preemptive measures like rigorous testing, thorough documentation, and robust support systems are instrumental in mitigating these obstacles.

Companies in AV like Q-SYS are successfully tapping into the creative prowess of external developers to bring fresh, unique solutions to the table. By doing so, they not only enrich their own platform but also set the stage for broader industry-wide innovation. It's clear that these collaborations are more than just a trend; they're a strategic imperative for companies aiming to stay ahead.

In a recent episode of Pro AV Today, host Ben Thomas explores the ever-changing landscape of residential technology. His guest, Scott Stephenson of Hunter Douglas, talks about the transformation of once-simple peripherals into essential smart home elements. Stephenson offers insights into how non-traditional peripherals like window shades, thermostats, and lighting systems have found their way into the core of residential technology.

Years ago, dealers used to shy away from categories like automated window shades. But as Stephenson points out, these have become an integral part of their business now. Recent statistics confirm that once such elements are proposed for a project, they're the least likely to be eliminated even if budget constraints arise. The talk also extends to other components like energy management, affirming that the industry continues to evolve and expand its offerings.

Ben Thomas notes the influence of the hospitality industry, where automated shades and other technologies have been commonplace for a while. These luxury technologies are now trickling down to individual homeowners, driven partly by consumer demand.

Another trend highlighted is how many dealers are making more money from selling lighting and shades than traditional audio-visual elements. Stephenson believes that this shift is because these elements are not just technological add-ons but are fundamental parts of a home. As homeowners contemplate their budgets, they're unlikely to think about eliminating essentials like lights or shades.

Both Thomas and Stephenson agree that the industry's growth and diversification are exciting to watch. They suggest that as technologies become more ingrained in daily living, we'll continue to see a convergence of commercial and residential applications, effectively blurring the lines between what is considered essential and what is considered luxury.

If you're into the nuts and bolts of today's residential tech, then you've got to listen to this episode of Pro AV Today. Host Ben Thomas teams up with Mariusz Malkowski from Trident IoT and Mitch Klein from the Z-Wave Alliance to dig into everything from accessibility, standardization, product development and more. They also dive into protocols like Bluetooth, WiFi, and Z-Wave and why these aren't just tech buzzwords—they're the building blocks of the smart homes we're all becoming familiar with.

But here's the real kicker: it's not just about knowing your Z-Wave from your Bluetooth. It's about making sure all these technologies can actually work together. Mariusz and Mitch lay down some serious knowledge about why standardization is the name of the game. It's what ensures your smart doorbell, your automated thermostat, and your intelligent lighting system can all sing in harmony. In other words, standardization is the unsung hero making sure all your devices can play nice.

They also get into the challenges the industry is facing. Whether it's security concerns or compatibility issues, they dig into what's holding us back and what we need to do to move forward. And since we're all a little curious about what the future holds, they even share some thoughts on what's next in the world of residential tech.

Whether you're in the Pro AV industry or just a tech aficionado, this episode is a must-listen. So plug in and check it out.

Join host Ben Thomas for a discussion on "The Value of Cross Industry Partnerships" with panelists from Steelcase, Logitech, and Microsoft. This episode promises to be a masterclass in understanding the untapped potential and transformative power of collaborations that cross traditional industry boundaries.

Our panel features a star-studded lineup of professionals who have actively participated in these inter-industry partnerships:

Christina Vernon from Steelcase offers a unique lens on how the furniture manufacturing sector is evolving through tech-forward partnerships.

Rishi Kumar from Logitech brings his experience in hardware and software convergence, exploring how Logitech’s partnerships have led to the development of innovative products.

Jimmy Vaughn from Microsoft will shed light on how the software giant is leveraging its ecosystem to build solutions that have a far-reaching impact across various sectors.

The discussion will delve deep into:

- How such partnerships spark innovation by merging different but complementary skill sets and technologies.

- The ways in which these collaborations are redefining user experiences, offering more tailored solutions that speak to the unique needs of various industries.

- How the future is set to bring even more of these collaborative endeavors.

In this episode of Pro AV Today, host Ben Thomas explores how audiovisual technology is transforming the way we approach wellness. With special guest Krys Kwiecien from AVI-SPL, a member of the ABLE chair and their Core Plus team, the discussion dives deep into innovative applications of AV in areas such as personal health, ergonomic design, ADA compliant experiences, and more.

Kwiecien shares his personal journey from contractor to Core Plus team member at AVI-SPL, and his battle with Crohn's disease. He emphasizes how his experiences with technology and gaming helped him achieve remission and fueled his passion for wellness and technology.

The conversation explores various applications of AV in empowering individuals with disabilities, creating more inclusive and mindful workplaces, and supporting the mental and physical well-being of employees. From soundscape therapy to ergonomic technology, Kwiecien provides an inspiring look at the future of AV in the wellness space, focusing on relaxation, integration, and connection.

The episode also addresses the challenges and opportunities that the industry faces, emphasizing the importance of flexibility and understanding the unique needs of end users. By utilizing AV to level the playing field and enhance the human experience, the industry has the potential to dissolve feelings of isolation, foster empowerment, and create a positive impact on lives.

Hosted by Ben Thomas, the show Pro AV Today welcomed Chris Black from VizRT for a discussion that delved into various facets of the broadcast and Pro AV industry. They explored the influence of end users, the introduction of new technologies, and specifically the evolution of the buying and partner channel.

End Users as Key Influencers

With an increasing influence on technology purchasing, end users are changing the dynamics of the industry. Their ability to understand, select, and use the gear has made them prominent players in decision-making, driving the industry in creative and unexpected directions.

Impact of Technologies Like NDI

NDI, a software-defined tool that's free and easy to use, stands as an example of how technologies have become accessible and relevant to more people. This innovation fosters creativity and empowers individuals to explore their broadcasting capabilities.

Evolution of the Buying and Partner Channel

Traditional Structure:

Traditionally, purchasing in the Pro AV industry followed a path from the manufacturer to the dealer, integrator, installer, and eventually to the end user.

Shift in Buying Behavior:

Now, end users, who are more educated than ever, have begun to bypass traditional channels. This shift was discussed at length in the conversation, highlighting the way end users now buy directly from platforms like B&H and Amazon.

Partner Channel Transformation:

Manufacturers, such as VizRT, are approaching this change from various angles. As the conversation pointed out, large companies are recognizing the need to engage directly with channel partners and users, adapting their strategies to the new landscape.

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The influence of end users, the role of accessible technologies like NDI, and the evolution of the buying and partner channel are reshaping the way the industry operates.

These changes challenge traditional methods but also present new opportunities for creativity and collaboration. By embracing this evolution, professionals in the field can find innovative ways to grow and thrive.

In this episode of Pro AV Today, host Ben Thomas dives into an important conversation in the Pro AV channel: the influence of "As a Service" models. Joined by Wesco's Senior Vice President, Global Enterprise AV & UCC, Phil Langley, they discuss the implications of this model for various stakeholders in the Pro AV industry. If you're interested in the changing landscape of Pro AV, the adaptation of service models, or the future of integrated technology, you can't afford to miss this episode.

Discussion Topics:

The Rise of "As a Service" Models in Pro AV: The podcast begins with a discussion around the buzz phrase "AV as a service," delving into what it means for different people in the Pro AV industry and who's executing it well.

The End User Evolution: Reflecting on recent shifts, including adjustments brought by new business models, Phil explains how the Pro AV community is changing. The conversation reveals how end-users are driving the shift towards "As a Service" models, pointing towards the rising trend of consuming services on a subscription basis.

Understanding the Market Demand: Phil shares some insights from recent industry conversations, illuminating the market demand for such models in the Pro AV sector. He discusses the changing needs of decision makers and managers, especially those handling a global portfolio of services and overseeing OPEX budgets.

The Changes in Traditional Pro AV Processes: Highlighting how Wesco and Anixter have adapted their processes to offer 'Conference Room as a Service,' Phil talks about the evolution of their services. The conversation provides an in-depth look at how their manufacturing, buying, integration, and support processes have transformed.

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If you're a Pro AV integrator, technology manufacturer, or simply someone interested in the future of Pro AV, the adaptation of service models, and the resultant changes, this episode offers valuable insights.

In this episode of Pro AV Today, host Ben Thomas sits down with Mark Barragan and Jeff Fox from Zoom to discuss the critical role of partner certifications in the world of Pro AV.

Here's what they covered:

The Need for Collaboration & Certifications: There is a growing importance of collaboration across industries and working closely with software providers to certify products. Jeff and Mark agree that in today's environment, clarity in guidelines and alignment of devices, software, and equipment is vital.

Historical Shift in the Pro AV World: Mark notes the historical tendency of the Pro AV world to work within exclusive ecosystems. However, the pandemic accelerated a shift towards greater collaboration with different platforms, hardware manufacturers, and software providers. This change has been essential for both Pro AV and Zoom, ensuring that customers' spaces are standardized and outfitted for video collaboration.

The Certification Process: Jeff provides insight into the Zoom certification process, emphasizing the inclusive approach that aims to make it straightforward for manufacturers. By working closely with them and aligning with third-party labs, Zoom ensures a clear path to certification and integration into their ecosystem.

The Weight of Certification with End Users: According to Mark, while smaller deployments may not value certification as much, larger customers consider it a must. Ensuring certified equipment and software gives customers the confidence that what they're installing will be supported both by Zoom and the AV community.

This enlightening conversation highlights the shifting landscape of the Pro AV industry, the significant role of certifications, and the mutual benefits of collaboration. Tune in to hear directly from the experts at Zoom about how certifications are shaping the future of Pro AV.

In this episode of Pro AV Today, host Ben Thomas sits down with Russ Callahan from Quest Events to explore the evolving landscape of event planning in a post-COVID world. As the events industry faces new challenges, they delve into crucial considerations, technological advancements, and the importance of knowledge transfer for successful event execution.

Join Ben and Russ as they discuss the necessity for a global approach in event preparation, the pivotal role of technology in crisis management, and the need for knowledge transfer to empower new event planners. They also shed light on navigating union labor and local regulations, all while emphasizing the significance of striking a balance between visionary ideas and realistic constraints. Tune in for valuable insights on how to successfully navigate the ever-changing world of post-COVID event planning.

In this episode of Pro AV Today, host Ben Thomas interviews John Deatherage, CEO of Simply NUC, about the growing prominence of NUC (Next Unit of Computing) devices in professional AV installations.

Deatherage highlights the advantages of NUCs in the AV industry, such as their compact size, performance capabilities, and customization options. He explains how NUCs are scalable and versatile, making them suitable for various AV applications, from digital signage to conference rooms.

The discussion emphasizes the importance of future-proofing AV installations, with Deatherage noting that NUCs are easily upgradable, allowing integrators to adapt to evolving technologies without replacing the entire system. This flexibility ensures cost-effectiveness and cutting-edge performance in the long term.

Deatherage provides specific use cases where NUCs have made a significant impact, including digital signage, video walls, immersive experiences, and advanced control systems. He highlights NUCs' role in delivering innovative and immersive audiovisual experiences across different environments.

The conversation concludes with Deatherage discussing the future potential of NUCs in the pro AV industry, particularly in areas like artificial intelligence, machine learning, and edge computing. He envisions NUCs playing a crucial role in creating immersive audiovisual experiences for various applications.

Join host Ben Thomas and John Deatherage as they explore the rise of NUCs in pro AV installations, uncovering their benefits, versatility, and transformative impact in the world of professional audiovisual technology.