It doesn’t take a tech expert to realize when a meeting room setup is falling behind the times. Maybe you’re dealing with audio problems during every call, or struggling to connect personal devices to your presentation system. Outdated conference room technology doesn’t just cause frustration—it slows down productivity and leaves a bad impression on clients and team members alike.
Here’s how to spot the signs of outdated technology in your conference room—and what steps you can take to modernize it.
Signs of Outdated Conference Room Technology and How to Deal With It
1. Frequent Audio or Video Glitches
When your team constantly asks, “Can you hear me?” or “Your video froze again,” it’s more than just a minor inconvenience—it’s a signal that your system can’t keep up with modern demands. Older microphones, cameras, or AV systems often result in persistent audio problems and video issues, especially when paired with newer software platforms.
What to do: Consider upgrading to modern, all-in-one video conferencing solutions that offer noise cancellation, auto-framing, and HD video. Brands like Logitech, Poly, and Crestron have user-friendly, high-quality systems designed for seamless collaboration.
2. Poor Connectivity and Scheduling Headaches
Are your meetings constantly delayed because the system takes forever to boot—or no one knows how to get the screen to mirror? These are classic symptoms of connectivity issues and scheduling conflicts caused by outdated control systems or a lack of automation.
What to do: Invest in room scheduling panels and smart calendars that integrate with platforms like Microsoft Teams or Google Workspace. You can also implement wireless screen sharing tools like Barco ClickShare or Mersive Solstice to eliminate cable clutter.
3. Clunky Interfaces and Limited Device Compatibility
If your control panel looks like it belongs in a museum—or your system only works with a narrow list of devices—it’s time for an upgrade. User interface complexity and incompatibility with personal devices can discourage users from even trying to use the system.
What to do: Today’s systems prioritize intuitive touch interfaces and broad device compatibility. Upgrading to a user-friendly control platform like Q-SYS, Crestron, or Extron can make a world of difference.
4. Design and Security Oversights
The most advanced AV setup won’t do much good in a room with room design flaws—like poor acoustics, glare, or awkward seating. On top of that, older systems often have security concerns, especially if they’re no longer supported with firmware updates or have outdated network connections.
What to do: Redesign your conference space with AV in mind. Work with an integrator who understands both visual aesthetics and technical performance. Make sure all systems are patched and updated regularly to minimize vulnerabilities.
5. Lack of Training and Support
Sometimes, the problem isn’t the hardware—it’s that no one knows how to use it. A lack of training or inconsistent maintenance and support often leads to underused or misused technology.
What to do: Provide ongoing training for your team, especially when new systems are rolled out. Partner with a local AV provider who offers responsive support and proactive system maintenance.
6. Poor Integration with Other Systems
Your conference room should work seamlessly with your building’s larger infrastructure—like digital signage, lighting, room booking systems, and more. If your AV setup operates in a silo, it likely suffers from poor integration with existing systems.
What to do: Modern AV solutions are built for interoperability. Choose systems that can integrate with your current platforms—or consult with an integrator to ensure compatibility before upgrading.
Final Thoughts
If your conference room tech feels more like a hurdle than a helper, it’s probably time to evaluate your setup. From outdated hardware to poor user experience, small issues can snowball into bigger problems over time.
Upgrading your system isn’t just about keeping up with the times—it’s about making meetings smoother, faster, and more productive. At ITS Hawaii, we specialize in designing modern conference room solutions that just work—every time.