News Archives - My TechDecisions https://mytechdecisions.com/category/news-1/ The end user’s first and last stop for making technology decisions Wed, 23 Oct 2024 20:52:11 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://mytechdecisions.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/cropped-TD-icon1-1-32x32.png News Archives - My TechDecisions https://mytechdecisions.com/category/news-1/ 32 32 AI in the Workplace: Jabra Finds Only 26% of Office Workers Use It Daily https://mytechdecisions.com/news-1/ai-workplace-jabra-study-only-26-of-office-workers-use-it-daily/ https://mytechdecisions.com/news-1/ai-workplace-jabra-study-only-26-of-office-workers-use-it-daily/#respond Wed, 23 Oct 2024 20:38:08 +0000 https://mytechdecisions.com/?p=51270 Jabra, the global enterprise audio and video solutions provider, released a new study, Great ExpectAItions – Work in the Age of AI, which reveals that while many business decision-makers (84%) express high levels of trust in AI, very few office workers (26%) are using it in their daily roles due to a variety of perceived […]

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Jabra, the global enterprise audio and video solutions provider, released a new study, Great ExpectAItions – Work in the Age of AI, which reveals that while many business decision-makers (84%) express high levels of trust in AI, very few office workers (26%) are using it in their daily roles due to a variety of perceived challenges. This disconnect suggests that even though leadership is optimistic about AI’s potential, they may yet lack the necessary vision or skills to effectively implement it across the workforce.

The study, conducted among 1,800 AI decision makers surveyed across six countries and 4,200 employees from 14 countries, highlights that despite strong enthusiasm for AI, there is a clear disconnect between trust in the technology and its actual use in the workplace. While 85% of decision-makers express high interest in AI, the vast majority (82%) acknowledge they need to better understand how AI can improve workplace efficiency.

Read Next: Four Questions to Guide High-Impact Enterprise AI Integrations

AI Workplace Challenges

Additionally, although 54% of employees believe AI can improve their work and 54% feel confident in their ability to collaborate successfully with AI, there’s still a significant gap in actual adoption in regular use at work. Jabra’s data found this appears due to several perceived challenges and demographic considerations:

  • 90% of employees wouldn’t trust AI for tasks that require creativity and innovation. This reluctance isn’t just about trust, it’s also about the satisfaction that comes from being personally involved in these more meaningful tasks.
  • There’s a clear generational divide in AI adoption, with 47% of Millennials and 37% of Gen Z indicating they feel positive about AI versus only 15% of Boomers. Adoption wise, 28% of Millennials and Gen Z use AI day to day at work, versus just 15% of Boomers.
  • AI decision-makers are relatively young – 58% are between the ages of 18 and 39 – and 71% are not from the IT department.

Paul Sephton, head of brand communications at Jabra, says, “We see many organizations eager to jump on the AI wave, but some are still dancing in the dark when it comes to effective implementation and meaningful use. As tools rapidly shift toward voice-driven input rather than text alone, it’s crucial for organizations to recognize how this evolution will change our interactions with AI and enhance productivity.”

He continues, “To avoid what we call ‘AI-washing’— simply jumping on the AI bandwagon — organizations must carefully evaluate the productivity gains that AI can offer and actively involve their employees in this journey. At Jabra, we believe in harnessing the power of AI not just to enhance productivity, but to foster a more connected and capable workforce, driving innovation and collaboration at every level.”

Another version of this article originally appeared on our sister-site Commercial Integrator on October 23, 2024. It has since been updated for My TechDecisions’ audience.

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DisplayNote Updates Screen Sharing Software https://mytechdecisions.com/unified-communications/displaynote-updates-screen-sharing-software/ https://mytechdecisions.com/unified-communications/displaynote-updates-screen-sharing-software/#respond Wed, 23 Oct 2024 19:45:26 +0000 https://mytechdecisions.com/?p=51261 DisplayNote, the Belfast-based, collaboration solutions provider, has released new updates to its screen sharing solution, offering users greater control and flexibility, along with improved content sharing and streamlined device discovery. DisplayNote Screen Sharing Software Updates October 2024 Enhanced Session Control with “Control Your Session” The “Control Your Session” feature allows users to manage screen sharing […]

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DisplayNote, the Belfast-based, collaboration solutions provider, has released new updates to its screen sharing solution, offering users greater control and flexibility, along with improved content sharing and streamlined device discovery.

DisplayNote Screen Sharing Software Updates October 2024

Enhanced Session Control with “Control Your Session”

The “Control Your Session” feature allows users to manage screen sharing from their personal devices, ensuring control over session flow. Integrated with Moderator Mode, it restricts screen sharing to invited participants, giving presenters the freedom to manage sessions securely and efficiently from anywhere in the room.

Related: DisplayNote and Promethean Partner to Enhance Meeting Rooms

Infrared Remote Compatibility for Broader Hardware Support

DisplayNote has expanded compatibility with infrared remote controls, making it easier for users to interact with the screen on both interactive and non-touch displays. For screen manufacturers, this means their hardware solutions can cater to a wider range of users, providing flexibility and ease of use across different environments.

Commenting on the latest updates, Luke McSorley, head of product, says, “Our ‘Control Your Session’ feature gives users unmatched flexibility, allowing them to manage screen sharing seamlessly from their personal devices. Combined with Moderator Mode, it ensures that only authorized participants can share content, giving presenters full control over their sessions. Additionally, by expanding compatibility with infrared remotes, we’re enabling easier interaction with both touch and non-touch displays, providing greater versatility for screen manufacturers and end-users alike.”

Additional Features:

  • Device Discovery for a Seamless Connection Experience: Connecting to devices is now more straightforward than ever. Whether using AirPlay, Miracast, or Google Cast, the Room Name will be the consistent identifier, reducing confusions and enabling quick, hassle-free connections.
  • Audio Sharing with Window Content: Expanding on the “share a window” option, users can now share audio along with their content, providing a richer, more immersive experience.
  • Access to DisplayNote Academy: users have access to tutorials, guides, and support via the newly integrated DisplayNote Academy link on the join page.

Another version of this article originally appeared on our sister-site Commercial Integrator on October 23, 2024. It has since been updated for My TechDecisions’ audience.

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Biamp’s Conferencing Bundles Earn Microsoft Teams Certification https://mytechdecisions.com/unified-communications/biamp-conferencing-bundles-microsoft-teams-certification/ https://mytechdecisions.com/unified-communications/biamp-conferencing-bundles-microsoft-teams-certification/#respond Tue, 22 Oct 2024 19:35:15 +0000 https://mytechdecisions.com/?p=51258 Biamp, supplier of professional audiovisual solutions, announced that its complete line of medium and large room conferencing bundles has received Microsoft Teams Room certification. Featuring the advanced TesiraFORTÉ and Devio audio processors, these bundles offer businesses a comprehensive solution for high-quality audio in their medium and large conferencing spaces, says the company. The solution includes […]

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Biamp, supplier of professional audiovisual solutions, announced that its complete line of medium and large room conferencing bundles has received Microsoft Teams Room certification. Featuring the advanced TesiraFORTÉ and Devio audio processors, these bundles offer businesses a comprehensive solution for high-quality audio in their medium and large conferencing spaces, says the company. The solution includes AI noise reduction to suppress distracting background noises and Biamp Launch, which automatically deploys and optimizes conference room audio at the touch of a button.

In addition, all five models of Biamp TesiraFORTÉ X and Devio SCX audio processors — the TesiraFORTÉ X 400, 800, or 1600 and the Devio SCX 400 and 800 — are now certified for Microsoft Teams using either Parlé Beamtracking ceiling or tabletop microphones. As a result, they offer multiple channels of AEC for further flexibility and customization in medium and large conference spaces.

Features of New Microsoft Teams Certified Solutions

“The Microsoft Teams certification of our complete line of conferencing bundles and audio processors notably expands our portfolio of Microsoft Teams certified solutions,” says Joe Andrulis, executive vice president of corporate development at Biamp. “Our TesiraFORTÉ X and Devio SCX audio processors are at the core of these solutions, providing excellent performance and innovative technology, including AI noise reduction and Biamp Launch, so that integrators and end users can be assured that their conferencing solutions will be easy to install, easy to use and result in extraordinary audio quality that is validated to work seamlessly within the rigorous standards of the Microsoft Teams platform.”

Medium and large room conferencing bundles from Biamp contain either a TesiraFORTÉ X 400 or a Devio SCX 400 processor, as well as Parlé Beamtracking microphones. These  track conversations from around the room — enabling remote participants to feel just as present as those in person — and are available in tabletop or ceiling models. They also include Desono C-IC6 ceiling loudspeakers, Biamp’s PoE-powered amplifiers, along with all necessary mounting accessories and category cabling to complete the installation in medium or large meeting spaces.

Advantages of the Biamp Solution

The newly certified Microsoft Teams bundles offer customers the advantages of a complete Biamp solution, including integrated Acoustic Echo Cancellation and cutting-edge AI noise reduction to suppress distracting sounds, as well as Biamp Launch automated system deployment and configuration. Biamp Launch identifies and configures every device in the system, performs a tuning cycle, measures acoustic characteristics of the room, applies recommended signal processing, echo cancellation, speaker tuning, noise reduction, and Zoom Rooms settings, then generates a dashboard highlighting performance settings before-and-after optimization.

Installers also benefit from Biamp innovation that extends far beyond superior audio, including minimal cable requirements with zero termination, zero network setup, automated EQ, and more. The Biamp bundles’ design feature plug-and-play installation, resulting in significant time savings for integrators. They also provide a consistent, high-quality audio experience for users across all conferencing spaces within a building, says the company.

Another version of this article originally appeared on our sister-site Commercial Integrator on October 22, 2024. It has since been updated for My TechDecisions’ audience.

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Alfatron Electronics Unveils ALF-UC1 (Gen2) Wireless Conferencing System https://mytechdecisions.com/unified-communications/alfatron-electronics-alf-uc1-gen2-wireless-conferencing-system/ https://mytechdecisions.com/unified-communications/alfatron-electronics-alf-uc1-gen2-wireless-conferencing-system/#respond Fri, 04 Oct 2024 20:41:08 +0000 https://mytechdecisions.com/?p=51275 Alfatron Electronics has introduced the new ALF-UC1 Generation 2 Wireless Conferencing System. With the ability to serve as the central point of control for one’s camera, computer, video display, and audio system, the ALF-UC1 (Gen2) can link one’s computer to the in-room AV system without the need for cables, converters, or having to worry about […]

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Alfatron Electronics has introduced the new ALF-UC1 Generation 2 Wireless Conferencing System. With the ability to serve as the central point of control for one’s camera, computer, video display, and audio system, the ALF-UC1 (Gen2) can link one’s computer to the in-room AV system without the need for cables, converters, or having to worry about where the various connection plates in the room may be.

The ALF-UC1 (Gen2) features dual screen HDMI outputs. Output 1 is configured for 4K UHD video while output 2 is intended for 1080P displays.

ALF-UC1 (Gen2) Features

The system is both HDMI 1.4 and 2.0 compliant — ensuring connectivity with a wide range of video sources. Switching between presenters is quick and easy as the screen can be split for connecting multiple presenters. The system’s Multiview capability supports 4 + 1 or 1 + 4 making it easy to show up to 4 presenters on one display and a fifth presenter on the second display.

The ALF-UC1 (Gen2) supports multiple sharing and connection methods. These include 4K HDMI and USB-C dongles. The UC-1 system facilitates either direct connection or by using an external dongle. The on-screen moderator controls enable users to manage who can and cannot connect at any given time, with support for Android, Airplay for IOS, Miracast (Windows), and MAC OS over the local network.

The UC-1 Generation 2 now features a secondary HDMI output that can connect to an additional display device, a recorder, a confidence-monitor, or remote display in another location.

Read Next: DisplayNote Updates Screen Sharing Software

Wireless Screen-Share Feature

The ALF-UC1 (Gen 2) also has a wireless software application that provides a way to connect wirelessly to the unit from any Windows or Mac OS platform. The local ‘Screen-Share’ feature from the ALF-wireless media application enables the connected user to view the shared content on their own computer, further allowing them to share this content into a VC Call as a ‘share screen’ – enabling far side participants to see the content shared to the ALF-UC1 (Gen2), without the presenter(s) being in the VC Call.

The ALF-wireless media application provides an intuitive interface and makes for quick and easy use of the features built into the application. These features include sharing the screen, the ability to share the full screen or not, freeze screen, local share, and a host of additional settings such as audio selection on the USB connections and quality of the latency.

The Alfatron ALF-UC1 (Gen2) also supports USB peripheral device sharing over a Wi-Fi connection. Device control and configuration can be managed via the Web GUI. Third party control is available via IP/LAN (Telnet) and RS-232 (Serial) protocols. Further, front panel control is provided for USB host switching between local USB-C wired or wireless connections, or it can be set to auto switch. Additional attributes of the ALF-UC1 (Gen2) include support for both the 2.4 GHz and 5.0 GHz Wi-Fi bands, plus a LAN port with 1 Gbps speed.

Marketing Director at Alfatron Electronics, Tiaan’s Hoogstad, comments on the new ALF-UC1 (Gen2) Wireless Conferencing System, “For technology managers and others who are regularly involved with preparing and conducting meetings, the new Alfatron ALF-UC1 (Gen2) merits a close look. This is a compact, versatile tool that enables one to bring the computer, camera, laptop computer, and other components typically used in meeting rooms into a unit that centralizes control of the equipment. Most importantly, its intuitive operation enables presenters to focus on the message as opposed to worrying about how to make the system work.”

Another version of this article originally appeared on our sister-site Commercial Integrator on October 3, 2024. It has since been updated for My TechDecisions’ audience.

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Xyte Unveils Mobile RMM for IT Managers to Monitor and Manage Their Devices On The Go https://mytechdecisions.com/managed-service/xyte-unveils-mobile-rmm-for-it-managers-to-monitor-and-manage-their-devices-on-the-go/ https://mytechdecisions.com/managed-service/xyte-unveils-mobile-rmm-for-it-managers-to-monitor-and-manage-their-devices-on-the-go/#respond Mon, 23 Sep 2024 14:28:57 +0000 https://mytechdecisions.com/?p=51219 Xyte, the Mountain View, Calif.-based, developer of all-in-one cloud platform for device manufacturers and system integrators, announced the launch of its Mobile View for Remote Monitoring and Management (RMM), enabling users to monitor and manage devices from their mobile phones and tablets. This mobile-first solution empowers integrators, technology managers and other personnel with a powerful, […]

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Xyte, the Mountain View, Calif.-based, developer of all-in-one cloud platform for device manufacturers and system integrators, announced the launch of its Mobile View for Remote Monitoring and Management (RMM), enabling users to monitor and manage devices from their mobile phones and tablets. This mobile-first solution empowers integrators, technology managers and other personnel with a powerful, fully functional tool that offers real-time visibility and management from anywhere.

With Xyte’s Mobile RMM, users can remotely monitor connected devices on the go through an intuitive live map interface, allowing them to see the location of devices in relation to their own location, making it easier than ever to manage large-scale deployments. Teams can send remote commands, check real-time device states and view recent changes such as temperature adjustments, Wi-Fi status and other key parameters. In addition to monitoring, users can interact with devices in real time, issuing commands and observing how device statuses change after the commands are received.

“This is an incredibly powerful feature. It may seem simple, but the ability to monitor an entire network of connected technology – whether AV systems, sensors or industrial equipment – straight from your phone is a game-changer,” says Omer Brookstein, CEO and co-founder of Xyte. He continues, “Our mobile RMM not only simplifies remote monitoring but gives teams the flexibility to stay on top of their installations, whether they’re managing a handful of devices or thousands. With AV systems becoming more and more mission critical, the ability to monitor and manage them from a mobile device from anywhere and at any time is more imperative than ever before.”

According to Xyte, it was the first to introduce QR code device claiming on mobile devices, which allows both end-users or dealers and system integrators to quickly scan and claim devices as part of their managed environment. Building on these previous platform capabilities, Xyte’s Mobile RMM extends beyond mobile QR code device claiming, allowing users to identify, actively manage and troubleshoot devices remotely. While larger displays may still provide the best experience for monitoring high-volume installations, mobile RMM ensures quick, efficient action while on the move.

Another version of this article originally appeared on our sister-site Commercial Integrator on Sept. 23 2024. It has since been updated for My TechDecisions’ audience.

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CrowdStrike Cyber Armageddon: How Do Firms Now Build Resilience? https://mytechdecisions.com/it-infrastructure/crowdstrike-cyber-armageddon-how-do-firms-now-build-resilience/ https://mytechdecisions.com/it-infrastructure/crowdstrike-cyber-armageddon-how-do-firms-now-build-resilience/#respond Fri, 13 Sep 2024 19:18:47 +0000 https://mytechdecisions.com/?p=51015 Towards the end of July, a botched software update at cyber security firm CrowdStrike caused chaos around the world, crippling IT systems that we all relied on. The disruption spanned across sectors; flights were grounded, patients were unable to contact healthcare services and customers were unable to make card payments. The event illustrated two things: […]

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Towards the end of July, a botched software update at cyber security firm CrowdStrike caused chaos around the world, crippling IT systems that we all relied on. The disruption spanned across sectors; flights were grounded, patients were unable to contact healthcare services and customers were unable to make card payments.

The event illustrated two things:

  1. how deep the roots of digitization have become globally;
  2. the fragility of the global technology ecosystem, exacerbated by an overreliance on a select number of cloud providers.

This is a wake-up call for us all. Although not a cyber attack, imagine if a nation state was able to find and exploit such vulnerabilities through a coordinated and sustained attack?

It’s given us a glimpse into what cyber armageddon could look like; how should we respond?

The Interconnectivity Trade-Off

Dubbed “the largest IT outage in history,” the global technology outage was caused when an update to one of CrowdStrike’s pieces of software, Falcon Sensor, malfunctioned, paralyzing computers running Windows and resulting in widespread tech failures around the world.

While not the cause, the severity of the impact was only made possible as a result of the increasingly interconnected systems and software that have become so entrenched in our digital infrastructure. The effects were also inflamed by the global reliance on a select number of cloud providers – with Windows devices the worst impacted, many initially thought it was solely a Microsoft issue.

This dependency has brought with it many benefits – global connectivity, efficiency and innovation. But it’s a simple fact that it leaves us all more vulnerable. If a major cloud provider goes down or is impacted, the world grinds to a halt.

For many of us in the business of IT and security, questions are starting to be asked about the trade-off: can we find a way to remain connected, but become more resilient and lessen the impact of events like these?

The initial discussion has been around reassessing cloud strategies, such as avoiding the automatic updating of patches. Some may also be thinking about a multi-cloud approach, where more than one cloud provider is used to ensure continuity if one goes down – “Microsoft is down? That’s ok, we can just switch to Google.” However, despite being a relatively simple undertaking, it would be an expensive luxury that’s out of reach for most.

Build Something from the Ground Up

Rather than trying to patch up ever more complex and interdependent legacy architecture, company boards should use this opportunity to explore shifting their legacy digital architecture to something built from the ground up and future proof.

That is, firms should be viewing this as an opportunity to run an entirely new, low-cost, digital infrastructure in parallel, which is independent of their primary cloud provider and legacy applications. The idea is that in the case of a major systems outage, organizations would have the ability to seamlessly switch over to this secondary infrastructure without manual intervention, allowing them to perform critical functions throughout the crisis. This infrastructure would be backed up with essential data, with advanced security protocols to protect against cyber threats. As a minimum, this provides an out-of-band communications channel for the board and senior management to tell staff and clients what to do and ensures they are not swamped by fraudulent scams after the Crowdstrike outage.

Imagine an airline affected by a major software outage. Having an independent backup system would allow them to continue day-to-day operations such as booking passengers, handling ticket changes and scheduling flights. Instead of relying on extensive manual interventions to recover the primary system, backup protocols would prevent disruption while the main systems are brought back online.

Any solution developed in this way needs to be quick-to-implement and must be able to initiate a contingency command and control process, handle basic tasks and keep the company running in the event of a major attack or outage. Our mission critical clients are beginning to build these fail-over systems that can handle basic tasks and keep the company running in the event of a major attack or outage. In some instances, these shadow systems operate entirely through a mobile messaging platform.

Continuity and Resilience are Possible

As businesses now begin to revisit how they can ensure a return to business as usual as quickly as possible when disaster strikes, they should not be clouded by all the technical terms and confusing offerings, and just focus on three simple and fundamental principles when assessing their current and future risks: completeness, accuracy and validity.

Shifting legacy digital architecture towards something that is built from the ground up ticks all these boxes.  Moreover, it addresses the inter-connectivity, inter-dependency and relatedness and reputational risks that we all face in the digital world today. This may just be the difference between surviving the next global meltdown or being left in its wake.


Andersen Cheng is the founder and chairman of Post-Quantum.

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Keeping Your Hybrid Workplace Secure https://mytechdecisions.com/unified-communications/keeping-your-hybrid-workplace-secure/ https://mytechdecisions.com/unified-communications/keeping-your-hybrid-workplace-secure/#respond Fri, 12 Jul 2024 16:36:12 +0000 https://mytechdecisions.com/?p=49336 The ravages of COVID-19 are now an afterthought in many people’s minds. But the pandemic’s disruptive impact on the workplace is far from done. This is especially true when it comes to the new hybrid workforce and technology challenges around systems support, device management and security. Specifically, workers experienced the personal benefits of flexibility that […]

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The ravages of COVID-19 are now an afterthought in many people’s minds. But the pandemic’s disruptive impact on the workplace is far from done. This is especially true when it comes to the new hybrid workforce and technology challenges around systems support, device management and security.

Specifically, workers experienced the personal benefits of flexibility that remote and hybrid work models offered during shutdowns. Many employees won’t or don’t want to go back. The percentage of these workers is likely to remain at high levels, and an employer’s ability to accommodate remote or hybrid work may now largely determine whether a worker takes a job or even remains with a company.

That is obviously a game-changer for recruiting and retention. It also increases the challenges of effectively managing a host of remote devices and the many workers using them. Potential impacts include infrastructure reliability, network availability, data accessibility, and, above all, IT security, but investments in robust technology to manage and support flexible work practices will ensure companies can remain responsive and secure.

A Remote Environment = Increased Threats to Security

As critical as it has been, remote work has significantly exposed companies to cybersecurity threats; these are the top risks to all organizations today. Yearly data breach totals remain high and show evidence of escalation: 1,175 in 2018; 1,108 in 2019; 1,872 in 2020; and 1,862 in 2021.

The risk is compounded not only by vulnerabilities in technology but also by human error. As evidence, Deloitte reports that 47 percent of remote individuals fell victim to phishing attacks while working at home. The average cost of a data breach enabled by a remote worker was $137,000 in 2022. Recent advancements in artificial intelligence are further increasing the number and severity of security threats, and this is why it is critical to get all aspects of IT support right.

By their very nature, hybrid work environments demand that organizations have a better awareness of risk and an even tighter grip on their data, devices, and processes to remain operational and secure. Historically, employees are the weakest link in the security chain. When employees work off-site, and often with personal devices, they lower the vulnerability threshold so much more.

Related: Choosing the Best Video and Audio Devices for WFH Setups

Because of the increased threat environment, many organizations are stepping up security investments and employee training, alongside establishing strict practices around sensitive data encryption for every device and ensuring backups are completed at different locations. Remembering that data not requiring daily access should also be removed from the regular data pool and stored where it can be retrieved when needed is also a good tactic.

Fortunately, organizations were not blind to increased security risks during the pandemic, and many put new measures in place and increased employee training. Still, many organizations have yet to modify their infrastructure to meet the new security and support challenges. Flexibility and agility are urgently needed, and many systems can’t provide either.

The solution is having a secure remote control platform that can handle a widely dispersed workforce while scaling and delivering support as required, regardless of location. Ideally, it should be easy to use, cloud-based, and have security at its heart.

 Security Features That Make a Difference

For a COO of an international company, ensuring the IT security for a hybrid working environment is a high priority, helping to safeguard network and data security, ensure uninterrupted operations and constant productivity and create a positive employee experience.

Our company has provided remote device management software for education and corporate settings for over 30 years and, with that, we’ve seen and adapted to the changes in risks and cybersecurity threats.

Some of the key remote control features that companies should consider include:

  1. Secure Web Gateways

Secure web gateways are ideal for managing remote employee connections and provide extra security, regardless of location. The gateway logs all activity and can provide additional insights into which computers were attempting to connect, allowing IT teams to see whether unauthorized attempts are occurring.

  1. Security Keys

As the name suggests, security keys enable remote users to connect only if they have the same security key as the client. These are encrypted passcodes and must match for connections between machines to be permitted.

  1. User Acknowledgement

Implementing user acknowledgment is an effective way to guard against connection attempts from unauthorized devices. This simply means that when delivering remote support, an employee must explicitly accept the IT team member’s connection request before they can connect to the device.

With these things and more in place, maintaining a secure and productive hybrid working environment should be stress-free and, dare I say it, easy.


Matt Jones is the chief operating officer of NetSupport. He has spent his entire career helping corporate IT departments manage their networks and devices.

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Soho Works & Tateside Simplify Zoom Room Standard Across Multiple Sites https://mytechdecisions.com/project-of-the-week/soho-works-tateside-simplify-zoom-room-standard-across-multiple-sites/ https://mytechdecisions.com/project-of-the-week/soho-works-tateside-simplify-zoom-room-standard-across-multiple-sites/#respond Tue, 25 Jun 2024 16:30:55 +0000 https://mytechdecisions.com/?p=49327 Tateside ensures a consistent, aesthetic user experience at Soho Works with Neat Bar Pro bundles, enhancing meeting rooms with seamless Zoom integration.

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Soho Works is a global network of workspaces and a creation of the Soho House group. Providing modern and collaborative workspaces for individuals and businesses, Soho Works has a total of four sites across London. AV and IT specialists, Tateside, also based in the capital, led the recent upgrade of AV technology at multiple sites.

“Tateside has been the preferred technology partner of London’s Soho Works sites for several years now,” explains Jack Cornish, technical director at Tateside. “Before the pandemic, the technology didn’t need to be focused on videoconferencing, but the working environment has since shifted and the client requested an update that would enable better bring-your-own-device (BYOD) and plug-and-play capabilities as well as a system that could support their preferred Zoom room functionality.”

Tateside Implements Neat Bar Pro for Consistent, Aesthetic Meeting Spaces at Soho Works

With high-end interior design and a focus on maintaining immaculate aesthetics across all sites, Tateside needed to honor the unique identity of the various Soho Works sites whilst rolling out a solution that could be replicated to provide a consistent user experience across the brand’s workspaces.

“Our team provides both IT and technology integration for Soho Works,” explains Cornish. “The new meeting room standard is a Neat Bar Pro bundle housed within a Leon Tonecase to hide the technology and improve the overall room aesthetics, plus a Samsung screen. This standard has been rolled out across all Soho Works meeting rooms, based on a Zoom Room system, with adjustments made for specific sites.”

The chosen Neat Bar Pro bundle provides crystal-clear audio via three full-range loudspeakers while the advanced microphone array ensures clear vocal pick-up, with Neat Audio Processing built-in. Thanks to the wide-angle lens and image depth sensor, Neat Bar Pro can detect, enlarge and follow all in-room participants, resulting in more lifelike engagement during video meetings. Furthermore, seamless integration with Zoom ensured a Neat Bar standard was the ideal solution for the Soho Works project.

Ashton Bentley USB-C hubs, which can be neatly mounted under desks, are integrated to support network connectivity and provide fast charging of devices. The Neat Bar Pro bundle provides in-built camera and microphone functions plus a Neat Pad for easy-to-use room control. Each site required a slightly different configuration and solutions for other room styles, including a podcast studio at the Dean Street site and subdivisible meeting rooms at 180 The Strand.

Soho Works Enhances User-Friendly, BYOD-Ready Systems with Neat Solutions

“Overall, Soho Works are aiming for systems that are easy to use with minimal technical knowledge,” continues Cornish. “During these recent updates, we’ve completely done away with Crestron controls for input switching and have implemented a complication-free standard with auto-switching and bullet-proof BYOD connectivity.”

He continues, “Finding that balance between function and aesthetics can be a challenge, but with the solutions available from Neat combined with our bespoke integration, Soho Works now have an easy-to-operate, future-proof set-up suited to the modern working environment.”

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Hybrid Work Trend Arises: The Impact on DECT Headset & the Role of Hybrid Wireless Technology https://mytechdecisions.com/unified-communications/hybrid-work-trend-arises-the-impact-on-dect-headset-the-role-of-hybrid-wireless-technology/ https://mytechdecisions.com/unified-communications/hybrid-work-trend-arises-the-impact-on-dect-headset-the-role-of-hybrid-wireless-technology/#respond Thu, 13 Jun 2024 12:05:05 +0000 https://mytechdecisions.com/?p=49315 Experience the WH64 hybrid wireless headset at InfoComm 2024, June 12-14. Visit Yealink at Booth C5141.

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Yealink’s WH64 Hybrid wireless headsets offer clear, secure communication, ideal for busy office and VoIP systems. Learn more at Yealink.com. Photo courtesy of Yealink

Why DECT Headset?

DECT headsets are the ideal choice for business offices due to their interference-free operation, ensuring uninterrupted communication in high-density workspaces. These headsets offer clear voice transmission in VoIP systems, enhancing efficiency and focus for employees. Additionally, DECT headsets prioritize security by utilizing encryption and authentication algorithms, ensuring privacy for all calls. With their reliable connectivity, superior audio quality, and data protection features, DECT headsets provide a seamless communication experience, making them the preferred option for professionals in the business headphone market.

Hybrid Work Trends

With the rise of hybrid work models and the increasing demand for versatile audio solutions, hybrid wireless technology has emerged as a game-changer. Work is no longer a place you go, but a thing you do. We all know that the base and deployment would limit DECT headsets. But can DECT headsets be more flexible?

Innovative Wireless Mode Expands Possibility

With DECT & Bluetooth hybrid wireless technology in the headset, you don’t have to worry about the base limitation and keeping your mobile phone connecting with the dual wireless technology built-in headset. That’s how the Yealink WH64 hybrid wireless headset can help you.

WH64, Industry first hybrid wireless mode headset certified for UC platform, breaks through various scene and device usage restrictions to meet diverse employees’ needs while ensuring better and more professional experience to enhance work efficiency.

Featuring industry-leading 3-Mic noise cancellation technology, the WH64 headset ensures users can work seamlessly in various environments, including the new open office layout where noise levels can be unpredictable. Its innovative ergonomic design ensures all-day wearing comfort, allowing users to focus on their tasks without discomfort.

In summary, WH64 dual-mode functionality is the preferred choice for business professionals. They offer the necessary features for daily office tasks and are adaptable to different work environments, aligning with the hybrid work trend. With seamless switching between SIP phone networks and mobile phones, WH64 provides flexibility and optimal performance, making them the ideal solution for business communication.

Yealink at InfoComm 2024

Join us at InfoComm 2024, from June 12th to 14th, to witness firsthand the WH64 hybrid wireless headset. Visit Booth C5141 to experience Yealink’s full range of headsets, offering enhanced functionality and superior comfort.

To learn more about the new Yealink WH64 Hybrid wireless headset, visit their website here.

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Duke Kunshan University Selects Sennheiser for Audio Upgrade https://mytechdecisions.com/project-of-the-week/duke-kunshan-university-dku-campus-audio-sennheiser/ https://mytechdecisions.com/project-of-the-week/duke-kunshan-university-dku-campus-audio-sennheiser/#respond Mon, 29 Apr 2024 14:30:15 +0000 https://mytechdecisions.com/?p=49300 DKU upgrades learning spaces with 116 Sennheiser TCC 2 Microphones across 50 classrooms, ensuring enhanced audio clarity.

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Duke Kunshan University (DKU) has installed 116 Sennheiser TCC 2 Ceiling Array Microphones in 50 classrooms and various other spaces across its campus, providing students and faculty with an immersive blended learning experience that is both superior in sound quality and easy to operate.

Located in Kunshan, Jiangsu Province in  China, DKU is an educational and research university situated on a 1,200-acre campus. The university offers a range of  academic programs and a diverse, inclusive culture to students from around the globe.

The large-scale audio video project is part of the university’s second phase, covering 22 buildings on campus, including 29 classrooms, 20 conference rooms, and a visitor center. DKU set its sights on a number of top global brands. In the end, the Sennheiser TCC 2 ceiling array microphone stood out due to its superior audio technology, open technology path and rich success experience. DKU chose to install a total of 116 TCC 2s so that every space can enjoy the trusted Sennheiser audio quality.

The Sennheiser TCC 2 Solution

DKU offers courses taught by faculty from Duke University in the U.S. as well as other locations around the world. As a result, the university requires each classroom to provide an online learning experience as if it were face-to-face. Audio equipment, in particular, not only needs to be clear in sound quality, stable in transmission, and easy to operate, but it also needs to fit seamlessly into different room types and teaching scenarios.

The TCC 2 utilizes patented Dynamic Beamforming technology, which automatically tracks the position of speakers and switches between speakers in real time, ensuring that their voices are clearly captured. Teachers are able to move around and communicate freely with students while teaching, and the layout of desks and chairs in the classroom can be flexibly adjusted to enhance the classroom experience. According to Sennheiser, the microphone’s built-in 28 broadcast-quality microphone heads make the sound clear and natural, and remote teachers and students can also listen to the speakers clearly as if they were in the room/

In addition to classrooms, schools also place a high value on the design of audio systems in conference rooms. In teleconferencing, the seamless integration of audio and video is very important. In this project, TCC 2 integrates Biamp DSP and Sony PTZ camera tracking to synchronize the monitored speaker’s position to the camera, thus realizing real-time switching of the speaker’s footage, which makes the meeting more realistic, efficient and immersive.

Duke Kunshan University Deploys 116 Sennheiser TCC 2 Ceiling Array Microphones 5
The Sennheiser TCC 2 utilizes beamforming technology to automatically track the speaker’s position and switch between speakers in real time, enhancing the classroom experience and flexibility. Courtesy / Sennheiser

Visitor Center Acoustics

The Visitor Center is another highlight of this project. In order to provide excellent conditions for teachers and students to communicate, display and hold activities and exhibitions, the Visitor Center built by the school has a flexible layout and a bright and spacious space, with an area of 400 square meters and a height of 4.8 meters, in addition to the need for high-quality sound pickup, the site of the local sound reinforcement is also a very high demand. Three TCC 2s were installed in the Visitor Center, whose TruVoicelift acoustic enhancement feature delivers everyone’s speeches clearly to every corner, with natural, full sound quality and no distortion or delay, making for a truly immersive audio experience.

AV-over-IP Integration 

The DKU Phase II project, which took three years to design and deploy and complete, was not only large in scale but complex. The project’s audiovisual system included many types of products including Biamp DSP, Bose loudspeakers and Crestron control systems. Therefore, for the success of the whole project, easy operation process and seamless integration of products of each link are crucial, which is also the main challenge of the project manager.

Wan Li is the chief engineer at DKU and the university’s technical lead for the audio system design. His team adopted an all-digital and fully distributed AV-over-IP architecture for the University. The TCC 2 can be seamlessly integrated into the campus network with all brands of audio equipment via Dante, allowing IT managers to monitor and control the communication, interaction and control of various devices on campus in real time via cell phones, tablets or computers, greatly simplifying workflows.

Sennheiser’s business communication solutions have an open audio/video ecosystem with strong compatibility and can be integrated with different brands of devices and platforms. TCC 2 has been certified by Microsoft Teams, Zoom, Tencent Conference and Nail Conference to meet the preferences and needs of all types of users.

Duke Kunshan University Deploys 116 Sennheiser TCC 2 Ceiling Array Microphones 4
TCC 2 synchronizes the monitored speaker’s position to the camera, thus switching footage in real time, making teaching and conferencing more realistic, efficient and immersive. Courtesy / Sennheiser

Praise for Sennheiser’s TCC 2

During the implementation of the project, Sennheiser’s technical engineers went to the university several times to carry out on-site investigation and debugging work room-by-room to ensure that the installation position and angle of each TCC 2 could achieve the optimal effect and realize the best voice clarity. This was highly recognized by DKU staff.

“The exceptional quality of the TCC 2 is unquestionable, and the Sennheiser team has been instrumental in the smooth implementation of the project. They provided full technical and training support and helped us make great progress in commissioning and optimizing the system.” Li praised, “In the school’s future development plan, we look forward to continuing to work with Sennheiser to further optimize the performance of the audio/video facilities and continue to enhance the immersive learning and collaborative experience for teachers and students.”

Another version of this article originally appeared on our sister-site Commercial Integrator on April 26, 2024. It has since been updated for My TechDecisions’ audience.

 

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