Why are schools and businesses around the world upgrading their old systems, such as standard and Electronic Whiteboards to new Interactive Displays?
For some time now, interactive whiteboards have been having a positive impact on training which has been recognised in the teaching community worldwide. When introduced, they were cutting edge technology which allowed students and teachers to collaborate. In our fast-paced world, more advanced and efficient technology emerges at affordable price points quickly.
Today we’re here to compare two technologies by giving you 5 reasons why it would be beneficial to upgrade your old technology, or even consider purchasing an Interactive Flat Panel Display (IFPD) over existing Interactive Whiteboard technology.
Reason 1: Reduce Multiple Systems and Maintenance
External projectors and screens over time may experience calibration issues, need bulb replacements and other maintenance such as filter cleaning which can cause downtime and disruption to businesses and schools.
LEDs provide much better viewing than projectors in different lighting conditions and have no maintenance requirements at all. Interactive Displays can be installed permanently hiding cables or can be moved when mounted on a trolley without recalibration to share the experience when required. The life time costs are quite often less expensive than their projector counterparts.
Reason 2: Limited Functionality
Some existing solutions such as projectors and electronic whiteboards are tailored to very specific functions, such as sharing lecture notes and some are only capable of limited bundled software. Electronic Whiteboards are a fantastic solution if you only require a specific function, however some models can be limited if you are looking for something with unlimited integration and capability.
With Interactive Displays, the real power comes from pairing with a small form factor integrated PC – these are connected and hidden behind the screens themselves, creating a seamless look which can still be a mobile solution. You can also cast from other devices to these displays and retain 2-way touch screen functionality. This means any media source, particularly PC computers can be utilised to run any current software without the need for any changes to the base system. The options are endless in terms of software packages available.
Interactive Whiteboard – Washed Out Colours in Daylight, Shadowing, Multiple Components. Image Credit: Tomasz Mikołajczyk, via PixaBay
Reason 3: Impacts on Training
Projector systems dim over time, and trainers have to close blinds and turn downlights creating eye strain, lack of concentration and a non-optimal working environment. On top of this, teachers are dealing with light projected in their eyes whilst student views are obstructed by the shadows being cast from the teacher, which is distracting for everyone at best.
Not to mention, they can be noisy, the picture can vibrate when there is movement in the room and they can be awkward to relocate, setup again and re-calibrate (which is necessary even when not moving them). Projector maintenance causes downtime, which has an impact on delivering further tuition and training.
Reason 4: Your student’s home has better technology than your workplace
This is a harsh truth, but some workplaces and classrooms don’t want to give up old technology and are holding their students and employees back. Children and Workers now have access to touch screen technology and collaborative workspaces in the home and can often feel at a disadvantage in the workplace. We want to share our lectures with our colleagues, students and their parents so that the education and collaboration can continue on after the lessons.
For example, it may take more time to annotate documents by using text and drawing tools in software. Most often than not, it’s much quicker and easier to mark on or sign documents using a stylus. People love being more connected to their technology; it’s this tactile experience which keeps us motivated and engaged.
Schools and Businesses are now realising the benefits and are making the change to adapt to this new technology.
Reason 5: Affordability
Touch Screens are now dropping in price to become more affordable and viable as a solution for both schools and businesses. Additionally, they are more cost effective to run on a daily basis than old projector technology.
Financing options are available to all schools and businesses to make upgrading to new technology a cost-effective solution.
In Conclusion...
Interactive Displays are capable of running the Windows 10 operating system, which is currently the market leader with Touch, Windows Ink and Active Pen technology integrated from the get-go. Windows gives you access to all your favourite applications which have already been upgraded to support touch technology.
Touch Screens are everywhere. In popular restaurants, kiosks in shopping centres and in your hand.
For the best deals and service on Interactive Flat Panel Displays, see our special offers today.