Heart rates spike – reaching 179 beats per minute, nearly three times the average resting heart rate – during technically challenging meetings, according to a study commissioned by Barco.
Aside from their well-being, bad technology in meetings is affecting their bottom lines. The study indicated productivity loss due to tech issues cost 24 percent of professionals to miss import deadlines, 13 percent missed promotions and 12 percent missed business opportunities.
The mere thought of unexpected technology errors evokes stress in nearly 40 percent of business professionals. Aside from general worry over the “what ifs,” uneasiness stems from details like:
- Making sure everyone is able to connect/dial-in
- Having the correct cables, adapters and knowing how to turn tools on
- Getting both video and audio functionality to work
Fortunately, you can take action to help mitigate concerns meeting attendees may have when using your facility.
Give the People What They Want
When asked what capabilities would help ensure meetings and presentations run smoothly, the following were respondent’s top three choices:
- Technology that works with the touch of a button
- Wireless solutions
- Easy shareability from any device
Does your space deliver on these needs? If not, you can work with your IT team to find solutions that will allow your guests to drive error-free, efficient and collaborative engagements.
Check-in IT Support
Seventy-one percent of business professionals regularly coordinate with IT to ensure technology is working properly within their organizations. Offering IT expertise and support to meeting attendees will go a long way in reducing their stress.
These members of your team can balance both the technology needs of guests and the resources available within your meeting space. IT also can help develop a backup plan and organize the implementation of alternative tools if needed.
Let Guests Test
If technology mishaps in familiar environments create stress, imagine what anxiety levels are like when professionals have to execute the same tasks in an unfamiliar setting.
Sixty-seven percent of professionals say they frequently take time from their day-to-day routine to rehearse with technology before a presentation or leading a big meeting. Give them the opportunity to prepare in your location with your equipment.
Afford your meeting attendees the opportunity to visit the meeting room ahead of their presentation. Let them see, touch and get comfortable with the technology at their disposal.
The Bottom Line
From spotty Wi-Fi to audio/visual issues, technology is about as predictable as the weather. When your guests experience that level of uncertainty, especially during an important presentation or meeting, it creates the perfect storm for anxiety.
By implementing tools that deliver on desired capabilities, using IT’s knowledge and offering access to spaces and solutions in advance, you can ensure your guests’ hearts don’t skip a beat over bad technology.
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