MAXHUB’s all-in-one collaboration technology has been making waves in the South African market since its introduction in 2019. From classrooms to boardrooms, the local market has responded with great enthusiasm to these compact, multi-functional collaboration hubs.   AV Integration spoke to Kenson Govender of the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) to find out why this leading South African learning institution recently decided to invest in MAXHUB Collaborative Interactive Displays.

ALL-IN-ONE FUNTIONALITY

According to Govender, who is principal systems consultant at UKZN, “Our IT division has been looking for an all-in-one collaborative tool that is able to assist our engineers with projects. The MAXHUB has been installed in our boardroom – aptly called the “War Room” – which is the central hub for our senior engineers, who oversee all our network and system infrastructure. This includes but is not limited to structured IT networks, CCTV, access control, AV, ERP systems, email, storage and all other IT infrastructure. Our team is responsible for the design, implementation, maintenance and management of all related systems, and so collaborative tools are a necessity for our operations.”

MAXHUB Collaborative Interactive Displays incorporate 4K UHD functionality with built-in recorders cameras, microphones, speakers and software. Some key features include professional interactive touch screens with gesture control support; easy set-up with Windows 10 Enterprise; fully responsive wireless collaboration with screen-sharing and the ability to mirror and control laptops, mobiles and tablets (Android or IOS); and remote collaboration, with teleconference links to any geo-location (through Zoom, Skype, Microsoft Teams, etc.). Screen and voice recording (for those who could not attend the meeting) and easy Cloud back-up functionality – in addition to the ability to store information on the smart, interactive board – complete the comprehensive feature-set.

Delving into how his team are able to use MAXHUB technology to streamline their operations and increase collaborative efforts, Govender says: “The MAXHUB is an all-in-one device that allows us to annotate and collaborate with our specialists using the white board technology, incorporating video conferencing functionality when required, and which also allows us to record when and if required. The seamless screen-sharing from different devices independent of operating systems is also a perfect tool that allows different users to collaborate and enhance presentations when required, even from remote sites.”

This ease of integration, and the immediate ability to use the best of what the technology has to offer, is – for Govender – one of its strongest features. “The MAXHUB is software-agnostic and allows users to choose their software of choice when using the video conferencing options.  We currently utilise a range of platforms – including Vidyo, Skype for Business, Microsoft Teams and Zoom – and so it is a huge advantage for the technology to be non-prescriptive in this sense, as it was with our previous boardroom video conferencing solutions.”

According to Adheer Rampath, Electrosonic sales representative at the company’s Durban branch, “People are more likely to choose a MAXHUB over other systems as it is not complicated to use. Some systems are so complex and intimidating; they end up not being used and therefore a waste of money. The MAXHUB is an all-in-one system so it’s quick to set up, intuitive and very user-friendly. I think that is why clients feel it is money well spent as it is such a perfect solution that caters for various requirements and applications.”

This point is underscored by Govender, who points to the high quality of the integrated conferencing accessories.

“The 4K wide angle camera and microphone array is very effective and does not need any additional peripheral attachments and devices, making the system very simple to use straight out of the box. The whiteboard templates allow simple drag and drop functionality and customisation, which allows for enhanced schematic design and automation which is very effective during design and process workflows.”

CURRENT AND FUTURE APPLICATIONS

Govender and his team have been delighted by the MAXHUB’s instant impact, and he looks forward to an expanded role for this technology at the university in the years ahead.

“Our team utilises mind maps, process flow charts, line diagrams and other technical tools that normally require annotation during the design and maintenance processes. This all-in-one device allows us to automate all old technologies with real-time backups, which is a huge advantage in our operations.

“We are not sure if the MAXHUB will be utilised in lecture venues,” he continues, “but can appreciate the value of its use in specialised teaching facilities, boardrooms and laboratories. Collaborative tools such as the MAXHUB will certainly be used more frequently in the future. We currently have over 100 venues equipped with video conferencing facilities, which allow users to collaborate across different campuses and universities. We have upgraded most of our venues over the last few years incorporating the latest AV and automation technologies, which both simplifies and enhances the teaching and learning experience.”

In conclusion, Govender reflects on how the University of KwaZulu-Natal’s investment in MAXHUB technology resonates with the institution’s values. “UKZN deploys best-in-class technologies in lecture venues and specialised boardrooms. Implementation does not necessary follow world trends or individual requirements, and a consultative process between all stakeholders is a necessity before the implementation of any technology may occur. All prospective equipment and new technologies are researched, proof of concepts are deployed and monitored, and only then implemented as a standard once we are confident that they will meet our stakeholders’ needs. It is a thorough process, and we have been very pleased with the decision to go with MAXHUB.”

For more information, please visit www.electrosonic.co.za.