The pandemic changed the way we work, leading to a newfound flexibility and a hybrid workweek. The ability to work from anywhere influenced companies and organizations to improve their communications systems. Loyalist Township was one of those organizations.
In 2019, Loyalist Township was searching for a user-friendly solution to the technological challenges staff faced during city council meetings. The pandemic accelerated this change, enabling remote meetings that were conducted, streamed live, and posted online.
However, when Loyalist Township began live-streaming meetings, staff encountered problems with audio and visual quality. They enlisted Interactive Audio Visual (IAV), an Ottawa-based company specializing in integrated technological solutions.
“We chose IAV because of the company’s good reputation,” said Anne Kantharajah, municipal clerk for Loyalist Township.
IAV was established in 2003 by Ian Smith. Smith’s interest in the industry started in elementary school, where he set up projectors for classes and performed as a DJ at school dances. In high school, he joined the tech club and was hired by the school board to set up audio and visual equipment for events at other schools.
Over four decades of experience
Now, with over 40 years of in the Pro-AV industry, Smith is committed to building custom-design solutions for his clients.
“In today’s world, when you look at a given space, it must meet a particular need. Everything needs to be balanced and blended to achieve what the client wants,” said Smith.
For Loyalist Township, that meant improving the flexibility, simplicity, and reliability of its systems. The township chose to continue its online services after the pandemic.
The result was the integration of a dynamic, multipurpose space that is accessible to both in-person and remote participants. Now, instead of viewing a static image, people can watch meetings in real time with the council chamber on one side and delegates on the other.
“The upgrades have improved transparency and created an experience similar to what people feel in person,” said Trevor Cornelius, corporate communications manager for Loyalist Township.
Upgraded system for Loyalist Township
IAV incorporated some of Loyalist Township’s existing equipment and installed more computers in the council chamber. Content can now be shared around the room on any display and simultaneously on YouTube. Those speaking during meetings can be seen and heard, whether they are in the room or participating remotely via YouTube, thanks to the new equipment.
The upgraded system is now operated by staff with greater ease. The user-friendly technology, combined with support from IAV, ensures the reliability of Loyalist Township’s audio and visual systems.
“The equipment is easy to use, and it makes sense for the clerks. Whenever I run into an issue, I can reach out to IAV, and they respond quickly to troubleshoot,” said Kantharajah.
IAV delivers integrated tools and solutions that meet the specific needs of each client. With its three pillars of operations — technology, environment, and people — the company prioritizes the functionality of space and its importance to users.
“Rooms should not only be about the technology, but about people and how they want to function,” said Smith. “The people and how they need to function are the most important factor.”
