Any decent sized conference is going to need audio visual equipment but what do you need and how do use it? Is selection an art or a science?
Firstly what are we talking about when we say conference audio visual?
- Stage Design
- Sound (microphones, speakers, music player)
- Visual (screen, video players, set colours)
The audio visual aspect of a conference has two key roles to perform. The first is that it must work and enhance the presentation. If microphones are being used then you need enough well positioned speakers to transmit the sound to the audience. There is no need for ‘can you hear me at the back?’ refrain if the system has been tested.
The second aspect is that it must look right and create a sense of theatre. For example if you have a big screen then you need good graphics and videos to exploit it. No matter how big the screen and super the sound if all you have are graphs followed by more graphs then you will lose the audience within the first few minutes.
The Challenge Factor will work with you to ensure that the most benefit is derived from the technology. This may include coaching the speakers, perhaps in the use of auto cue. Or if that is a step to far at least have a front repeater screen to prevent a speaker constantly turning to the screen to check what is there, or worse to read the words on the screen which the audience just may be able to do for themselves!
The visual side of conference audio visual includes the lighting and the set design. Spotlights and accent lighting can dramatically alter the appearance of a set making it suitable both for the main presentations and perhaps an after dinner speaker. The art of conference audio visual is subtle but is perhaps best summed up by one of our clients who said this.
“I do not need to know exactly what technology The Challenge Factor use to deliver the audio and visual effects at my events. What I need to know is that when I want a video to be played it happens. Or if I want the lights lowered it happens. I need my delegates including suppliers, customers as well as colleagues to walk into the main room and be instantly impressed by the set design but oblivious to the technology behind it. That the technology we use helps them experience a much better conference is the art that The Challenge Factor bring to the science of audio visual requirements at a conference."
For more information on how The Challenge Factor can you help you with the art and science of audio and visual technology for your next conference please contact us.