StaffFor many businesses, it can be time-consuming to keep up to date with evolving technologies and what these mean for working practices, leaving many avoiding the topic altogether and hindering their growth over time.
As the audio visual technology industry continues to show huge growth throughout 2024, audio visual services experts at Universal AV share their thoughts on how businesses can futureproof their offices with AV tech, and why not doing so could be a big disadvantage.
Why is future-proofing technology so important?
1. It provides a return on investment
Shelley Townend, Marketing Manager at Universal AV explains, “When businesses futureproof their office technology, they are ensuring longevity and that they will be able to get the most out of a device over its lifespan.
“Initially investing in up-to-date and adaptive AV tech, which can adapt to its environment or a user, means devices won’t need to be replaced as frequently because they can be updated or evolve as new needs arise, reducing installation and purchasing costs over time.
Network-based solutions, such as AV over IP, are a great example of this. They lend themselves to businesses seeking and planning for future growth due to their ability to be scaled up almost infinitely, using existing IP systems or a dedicated AV network.”
2. It helps to meet sustainability targets
Since 2022, it has been mandatory in the UK for large companies to provide an ESG (environmental, social and governance) statement and most businesses will have environmental targets to meet, regardless of their size.
Shelley says, “Sustainability is high on everyone’s agenda, so considering the eco credentials of technology used in and around the office is becoming more important. Knowing how much energy these devices consume and how they can be used to help hit ESG targets whilst saving on energy costs will be key information for businesses moving forward.
“When it comes to AV technology in the workplace, businesses can considerably reduce their energy consumption and future-proof by utilising automation. Installing products like occupancy sensors, which can be built into a room and will automatically turn off tech when no one is using it, will help lower power consumption year-on-year.”
3. It helps attract, secure and retain talent
A recent Flexible Working Index from Flexa reports that 62% more flexible jobs were being advertised between January and March 2024 than in the same period in 2023.
Shelley explains, “The post-pandemic shift in working practices has raised staff expectations to a level where they expect their technology to work as flexibly as they do. Office-based, hybrid and remote colleagues choose the companies they want to work for based on the suitability of the technology provided – people expect a scaled-up set up in the boardroom that works at the push of a button, like their home office tech.
“By incorporating the latest corporate AV advancements into the workplace, such as video conferencing with multiple camera systems, acoustic solutions and discreetly placed microphones, businesses can offer their staff a scaled-up experience which works with the flexibility and ease of thehome office-based offerings many are now used to. Companies can now provide appropriate AV technology setups for wherever their staff choose to work, enabling them to offer a more flexible system of working and attract top talent who would have otherwise looked elsewhere.
“Seamless interaction between both in-office and remote locations also helps to remove barriers to communication and collaboration, providing workers with the tools they need to succeed and leading to greater job satisfaction over time – one of the contributing factors for staff retention.”
How can office technology be future-proofed?
Whilst ways to futureproof office technology will vary based on a business’ needs, Mark Atkinson, Sales Manager at Universal AV suggests some solutions are increasingly popular across the board:
“Artificial Intelligence is everywhere when it comes to technology and businesses are becoming more aware of its benefits.
“Many companies are already adapting to using tablets and touchscreens for their signing-in process, but businesses wanting to futureproof their space will be the first to adopt solutions like advanced camera technology, which will recognise repeat visitors to deliver a warm, professional and personalised service.
“Analytics is key; giving companies the data to think about how their office estate is being used, so they can then make informed decisions into patterns of use, peak occupancy times, and space efficiency.
“By using adaptive AV technology in conjunction with analytics, companies will be able to create a more dynamic and responsive office environment that adapts to the changing needs of its users. This approach not only improves operational efficiency but also contributes to a more engaging and supportive workplace culture.”