You probably think your 55-inch conference room video display makes every presentation easy to read. In truth, a screen that size still makes many presentation types unreadable.
The days of viewing slides and overheads ended long ago, replaced by video conferencing and online meetings. Today’s audio/visual needs must go beyond the 4/6/8 rule to use a new visibility paradigm.
Today’s screen needs require commercial AV designed for use in online collaboration, video conferencing and in-room presentations.
When it Comes to Conference Room Displays, Size Matters
While the exact dimensions will depend on your room and setup, a 120-inch screen hung about four feet from the floor provides a clear view to everyone in the room. If you choose a larger screen, consider installing additional smaller screens (at least 55 inches) in strategic areas along the walls. A screen larger than 120 inches necessitates installation lower than four feet, meaning people won’t be able to see the bottom portion of the presentation.
The main size differences your screen must accommodate vary considerably. The display must visually accommodate:
- Documents with small text, such as spreadsheets that normally use 9 to 14 points
- Documents with medium text, such as PowerPoint presentations that normally use 36-60-point titles and 24-36-point body text
- Video playback
It needs to allow all participants in a room to easily view and read. According to the 4/6/8 rule, you need a screen that can accommodate the following viewing areas:
- Analytical: Four times the vertical display height to show text and detail to near field participants
- Basic: Six times the vertical display height to display presentations
- Passive: Eight times the vertical display height for movies and video
The new paradigm recognizes that, in the 21st century, large groups in a presentation hall sized for passive viewing may collaboratively work on the viewed document with others in far-flung locations.
This need requires additional forethought. No longer does collaboration occur only in the near field (the four of the 4/6/8 rule). That means participants sitting in the back of a large room need an accessible view of what could be a spreadsheet using 9-point type.
Multiple Solutions, Multiple Screens
You don’t want to dwarf the room with a screen that’s too massive. It’s important for everyone to see everything regardless of presentation type. Multiple screens in multiple sizes can provide your solution.
Consider using a 100 or 120-inch display at the front of your conference or presentation room. Use smaller screens, mounted from the ceiling or on the side walls of at least 55 inches. You may find a 70-inch display more suitable if you regularly present documents with small type.
Commercial AV Design
Clearly, it’s essential to think about your needs and leave room for growth. Also, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Effective multi-use conference and presentation rooms benefit from professional design. Meet with an AV consultant about your business collaboration needs.
An AV consultant can visit your physical space, take measurements, interview your staff regarding common and emerging uses, and design your firm an effective AV system that meets your visual meeting needs and budget, plus will grow with your company.
The old attitude of one screen size fits all has been thrown out the window. Modern business needs modern systems capable of in-room meetings and global online and video conferences. Encourage collaboration and business growth with a properly designed conference room that accommodates all visual needs.