Large video walls are attention grabbing, and offer the possibility for convenient information sharing, mesmerising visuals and an overall “cool factor” for those who can use them to their full potential. However, for businesses long reliant on the same (and potentially outdated) technology, the process of finding and implementing the right video wall technology can feel overwhelming.
As with any major technological upgrade, finding the right video wall begins with thinking through the types of content and information you plan to deliver and the size, structure and dynamics of your workspace. These three considerations can help you narrow down your search and find the best solution for your goals and needs. Software such as Barco’s Infinipix (for LED) and Sense X (for LCD) allows users to fine-tune brightness without loss of image quality.
“Driving” the right decision
Similarly, not all video walls are made alike, and business leaders must clearly understand how they plan to use the wall to identify the right configuration for their space. Ideally, the wall will live in high-traffic or high-visibility areas, and decision-makers can gauge available space to determine its size and dimensions. From there, it’s a matter of determining the arrangement and placement of the wall’s screens. While modern video walls offer a range of cool and customisable configurations, the final decision should factor in both practicality and their organisation’s brand identity.
While there are many varieties of video wall available, the most common include LED and LCD options – each with their own merits, attributes and ideal uses.
Arguably the “immediate association” large display format, LED walls feature impressive brightness and colour presentation and a gap-free composition ideal for generating attention in corporate reception areas. Though LED displays come at a slightly higher cost than their counterparts, the brilliant visual quality and showstopping impact they deliver often make for a worthwhile investment.
While perceived as an “earlier model,” LCD video walls deliver solid performance at a more level price point. LCD displays’ flat panel, liquid crystal, individually-joined composition offers added flexibility for users seeking a more defined form. Additionally, LCD walls are favourable for businesses tasked with delivering detail-rich content at high resolution and clarity.
Navigating the light
A video wall only is as effective as its surroundings. If viewers see a dark or blurry image or are forced to squint, the likelihood of content resonation significantly decreases.
When evaluating how a video wall can best fit into your space, remember to consider the potential impact of direct and ambient light exposure. Reception and meeting spaces surrounded by glass face more interference from sunlight and reflection from internal light sources. Likewise, secluded and darker spaces will need adjustment to prevent content from appearing too brightly or overwhelmingly.
Light impact also can help define the type of wall most likely to succeed in a given space. LCD and LED walls both display content at high brightness, even against potential backdrops of daylight. Fortunately, most modern video walls either automatically adjust content brightness to match surrounding conditions or provide easy capabilities for users to modify screens to changing room dynamics in a few seconds. Software such as Barco’s Infinipix (for LED) and Sense X (for LCD) allows users to fine-tune brightness without loss of image quality.
Setting up for success
Identifying the right style of video wall for your business needs is only half the battle. The evaluation process also should account for what will be required to install, activate and maintain the display while ensuring it showcases content to its fullest potential.
At the very least, IT decision makers should ensure their display comes with intuitive software to guide them through a seamless and successful installation. Ideally, this software will have a simple UI, easy-to-follow directions and be browser-based to prevent the need to switch between the software and video wall windows. For ongoing maintenance, users also should request video wall platforms that self-calibrate, automatically optimise picture quality and allow for individual screen management.
Fortunately, advanced software and management platforms – such as Barco’s video wall management program – can provide IT teams with an extra edge. This intuitive suite centrally manages the fleet installation base and monitors and analyses video wall usage, brightness and temperature in real time for faster troubleshooting. For smart buildings managing multiple displays at once, video wall management software offers the added intelligence and visibility to ensure ongoing performance.
Building a brilliant future
With the potential to enliven well-travelled spaces and offer new avenues for engagement and visibility that guides decision-making, the role and presence of video walls in business spaces is only likely to grow in the new era. The process of evaluating, selecting and installing a video wall does not need to be daunting, and the business leaders who can best envision what they want their display to achieve stand the best chance to maximise their investment. By asking the right questions and thinking through short- and long-term goals now, businesses can find the visual display most capable of delivering great impact.
