Pro AV solution providers have a lot to look forward to in 2022. Not only are Pro AV technologies and digital signage solutions in demand due to factors created by the pandemic, but the technologies have become easier to implement, more affordable and more powerful. This alignment should provide ample opportunity in 2022. Here are five of the biggest trends to monitor in 2022.
Self-service kiosks
Kiosks check a couple of boxes that merchants and other industries find appealing. First, with many dealing with staffing shortages, implementing kiosk solutions can allow customers to do their own research, ordering, returns and checkout. Beyond the benefit to merchants, kiosks can improve customer experience by getting customers more engaged in store. Additionally, reducing person-to-person interactions by using touchless technology is desirable to many still worried about spreading or catching COVID.
Many sectors have caught on to the appeal of kiosks. Mass transit (airports, railway stations and bus terminals), retail, hospitality/hotels, restaurants, healthcare and education are all interested in digital signage and interactive kiosks.
Hybrid workforce solutions
Gartner expects the global $46 billion unified communications as a service (UCaaS) market share to rise to more than $140 billion by 2025 based on a 25.1% CAGR. With most industries sending employees home to work, unified communications as a service adoption spiked out of necessity. While some are now returning to the office (or planning to), there’s considerable pressure from workers to remain at home and continue with online collaboration. Therefore, the need for robust work-from-home UCC solutions shouldn’t subside any time soon. Cameras, microphones and software are just a few line items you can offer. And because many companies are replacing single large conference rooms with many smaller huddle spaces, installation services are on the rise.
DLED
There are many upsides to using (direct view LED) DLED when creating signage solutions. DLEDs can reach much higher brightness levels compared with LCDs. DLEDs also tout better color accuracy, higher refresh rates and higher contrast. Additionally, when it comes to creating unique signage applications, DLED provides nearly unlimited possibilities when it comes to size and shape. Finally, while LCD-based signage solutions might have a 5-year lifespan, DLEDs are rated to last 10 years, significantly lowering the TCO. Indeed, some DLEDs have a 100,000-hour lifespan with more time between servicing.
Digital signage solutions
Digital signage opportunities exist in nearly every vertical today, making this segment very appealing for the foreseeable future. Lowering costs, proven ROI and the move to SoC (system on chip)-based solutions have combined to create an ideal situation for solution providers looking to sell more signage. Additionally, by using technologies like DLED and projection mapping, you can create impactful and unique signage displays for your customers.
Esports
Video games have blossomed into a serious opportunity for solution providers. According to Grand View Research, the global esports market size was valued at $1.1 billion in 2019 and is expected to expand at a CAGR of 24.4% from 2020 to 2027. Recognizing the opportunity and interest level in esports, some universities are adding extremely cutting-edge facilities to entice students already interested in esports. Additionally, new businesses that cater to online tournaments and gameplay have popped up.
A few Pro AV technologies are needed in this exciting space, such as displays, video cards, speakers, video switchers, and capture cards among many others.