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  • Writer's pictureAhmed

How Interactive Technology is Revolutionizing Workplace Collaboration

Updated: Aug 16, 2020

With the advent of technology and interactive technology more so, virtual walls are breaking down in the workplace, making collaboration between colleagues and employees seamless no matter where they are. As an increasing number of offices are turning their attention towards digitization, it is only imperative that they take advantage of interactive technology as well. From interactive displays to artificial intelligence (AI) wearables, interactive technologies are revolutionizing workplace collaboration, including where we work and how we work. The latest interactive technologies are making the workforce more productive and flexible. They’re especially useful for companies with offices around the world or teams consisting of remote members. However, it must be noted that interactive technologies are not just for large companies. They can prove to be just as effective for small businesses and schools as well. The goal is to make the environment individualistic and more engaging and collaborative.


The introduction of interactive technology


Ironically, technology in the early stages hampered collaboration among people. It kind of restricted our natural way of working as the ability to touch, write or move was taken away from us. However, with interactive technology, as the name suggests, people are now moving towards physically interacting and getting hands-on with their work fostering a sense of collaboration in multiple ways. Touch screen phones were the first participants and led the way for us to scroll, read, and consume digital content rapidly. Today, interactive technology has seeped its way into larger applications and devices altering the way we work, study, and collaborate. Hybrid technologies are breaking the barriers between what technology was essentially meant for versus the innovative ways it is currently being used in.

Mobility and connectivity are just some of the ways in which interactive technology is being used to enhance the way we function. Whether it’s boardroom meetings or classroom experiences, interactive technology now brings together instant messages, emails, and interactive displays to create an engaging and cooperative environment. The use of interactive projectors and displays enable large groups of people to interact with each other in real time.


Interactive technology in the workplace


The ability to include people from around the world at practically zero travel cost is always an attractive option, and interactive technology makes this possible in the workplace. Besides this, boosted productivity, efficient time usage, constant communication, and quality work are some of the key factors why an increasing number of workplaces are employing collaborative technology. Today, you can take this interaction one step further with the implementation of conference room audio visual equipment. Setting up a conference room sound system can up the quality of your meetings and improve client interaction as well. Infact, audio-visual specialists ensure that intricate details of your office sound system are taken care of by implementing long-lasting, efficient, and affordable technological solutions. Audio-visual facilities such as interactive whiteboards, automation products, acoustic treatments, IP telephony, sound systems, projection systems, video conferencing products, and conference room sound systems have taken meetings and workplace collaborations to the next level.


The development of smart meeting rooms


With a growing number of workplaces adapting flexible work patterns, the layout of meeting rooms is also undergoing a drastic change. Meeting rooms are not just boardrooms with a large desk surrounded by chairs anymore. With projection systems, video conferencing products, interactive whiteboards, wireless charging ports, and interactive displays, workplaces have developed into spaces that use smart technology to take their meetings to the next level virtually. Such technological interaction helps in group contribution and improves employee engagement because members can easily contribute to meetings regardless of their physical location.


Interactive whiteboards


Digital whiteboards combine the collaborative features of whiteboards along with technological advancements such as dropping images, notes, pulling websites, and remote collaboration. They’re changing workspace dynamics by allowing team members to take on interactive roles in meetings no matter where they are, and to create more robust discussions at the touch of a button. They’re also designed to display responsive and accurate content. Whether you are comfortable with sketching ideas or chalking out plans, there is complete autonomy when using them. In addition, digital whiteboards are perfect to keep track of meetings and improve collaboration on all fronts without the need for messy physical whiteboards. It is also an effective way to promote teamwork in an easy, fun way that helps increase productivity in meetings across different departments. Digital whiteboards also allow each team member a variety of options when it comes to accessibility. You can use multiple digital whiteboards simultaneously irrespective of where you are.


Why interactive technology is important


Studies show that the use of collaboration technologies helps small and large organizations improve their productivity. In fact, a Dimensional Research survey sponsored by Cisco found 53% of organizations indicated that the use of interactive meeting rooms has helped improve business processes drastically, and 54% of business leaders plan to invest more in technologically collaborative solutions. From document sharing and mobile apps to automation apps and interactive whiteboards, companies are using a variety of digital methods to boost employee productivity. However, it is key to use the right collaboration platform. The goal is to drive cost efficiency and collaboration in the workplace. With so many new technologies in the market, it can be tricky to identify the right solution for your business.

For starters, ensure you’re sticking to low cost effective solutions. There’s nothing worse than spending a ton of money and not seeing the desired results quickly. Secondly, opt for a technological solution that can be easily integrated with your existing situation to ensure a smooth transition. You must also make sure you provide the right training and support so employees can maximize productivity by using all the features of the platform. Next, consult with a reliable vendor such as a sound system supplier who will provide top-notch technical support to help you maximize productivity by making sure your technological platform is running optimally and resolving issues promptly. It is also doubly helpful to understand your employees requirements when choosing an interactive tool. Gather requirements from employees to ensure that you’re choosing collaborative tools that facilitate processes better, streamline workflows, and help improve user performance. The last thing you want is for your collaboration tools to create more work for your employees.


In other creative industries such as architecture, interactive models play a huge role in bringing designs to life; an option that wasn’t widely available a few years ago. In fact, schools are now combining interactive technology to enhance hands-on collaborative learning. From interactive pens to interactive whiteboards, students are equipped with the latest gadgets to enhance their learning experience.


Whether it’s the workplace or the classroom, interactivity at its core has always been about encouraging partnership. With technological advancements, the core element of interaction, that was once lost, is being unlocked again. Interactive technology not only increases involvement, it also increases productivity, leading to a seamless workplace experience.

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