Innovative & Automated Boardroom Technology
Among the organisations under its umbrella is The Manchester College, one of the UK’s largest further education institutions, providing over 25% of Greater Manchester’s learning provision.
As the preferred audio visual (AV) integrator for all LTE Group and Manchester College sites, we were entrusted with this significant refurbishment project. Our longstanding partnership with the College, which dates
back to 2013, provided us with deep insights into their needs, having previously delivered specialist AV solutions for their lecture theatres and executive offices.
As the world adapts to hybrid and remote working in the post-pandemic landscape, the need for advanced meeting experiences has never been more critical.
This is particularly true for The Manchester College and other LTE Group members, which share the executive office space at the college’s Openshaw campus. Recognising the shift towards new ways of working, The Manchester College sought a complete overhaul of their meeting spaces to align with modern standards and requirements.
Project coordinator at IDNS, Stephen Massey explains:
“We collaborated closely with our partner Quadra and the client to design a bespoke wishbone table in the exec boardroom. The furniture’s angles allow us to frame each two-person section within the desk, enabling the camera system to voice-track, lock, and zoom in on active participants.”
Two meeting rooms were combined to create a larger, more functional executive boardroom. Utilising 3D modelling and planning, detailed specifications were outlined, allowing the client to provide input and make necessary adjustments. The AV equipment was carefully selected to work harmoniously with bespoke furniture, ensuring a seamless integration of technology and design.
To support this advanced functionality, the ceiling was designed with voice-tracking in mind, featuring Shure beam forming microphone arrays and ceiling tile speakers. This setup enables a full voice-lift system, ensuring that all participants, regardless of their seating position, can hear clearly. An ultra- wide 4K Panasonic camera captures all 22 seats in a single frame, while two Aver cameras automatically focus on speakers on either side of the table.
The room is equipped with two 86” Samsung displays and repeater screens, all integrated with Samsung’s MagicINFO signage software.
An ultra-wide 4K Panasonic camera
captures all 22 seats in one frame.
2 x Aver cameras
automatically focus on speakers on either side of the table.
2 x 86” Samsung displays
with repeater screens on opposite walls are equipped with Samsung’s MagicINFO signage software, which the college uses throughout.
In addition to the executive boardroom, we were tasked with outfitting smaller video-conferencing spaces. These rooms, designed for 7 to 12 people, mimic the main boardroom, offering flexibility for teams from both the college and LTE Group to choose a space that fits their needs. Each room features custom-built furniture that flawlessly integrates with the technology, with input plates allowing users to share content from their devices quickly and easily.
The refurbishment has significantly enhanced the meeting experience at The Manchester College and across LTE Group, enabling employees to meet and collaborate effectively, both on-site and across other campuses. The improvements to the space have also considerably enhanced meeting efficiency and productivity. Our ongoing relationship with LTE Group remains strong, and we continue to provide them with innovative technology solutions.
