Tech Features

Enhancing Command-and-Control in Critical Operations with AI-powered AV Solutions

Published

11 months ago

October 28, 2024

By Denis Pozigun, Audio Visual Executive Director – Convergint

A command-and-control room (C&C room) is the operational epicentre for many organisations. This centralised facility enables them to oversee complex, mission-critical activities, make rapid decisions, and mitigate risks and threats before they can adversely impact the facility. But to deliver on these promises, clear coordination and communication between C&C personnel are essential. And to enable such communications, integrated, AI-powered Audio Visual (AV) systems are vital.

A well-integrated AV system enables C&C teams to effortlessly manage, control, and process the audio and visual inputs from diverse sources. By seamlessly combining digital displays and audio solutions with state-of-the-art AI analytics, a unified AV system enables operators to maintain 24/7 shared situational awareness. Such awareness empowers them to make informed, timely decisions and ensure the organisation’s operational continuity and long-term success.

AV Systems for Command-and-Control Rooms: Then vs. Now

For decades, critical service providers, businesses, government agencies, the military, and even for-profit businesses have maintained C&C rooms to facilitate coordination among different departments, and to streamline crisis management and emergency response.

However, traditional C&Cs relied on a few security systems like CCTVs and intrusion detection that comprised of stand-alone hardware components. These components only performed a single dedicated task and didn’t “talk” to each other, limiting the insights available to C&C operators. These personnel also had to deal with multiple screens, various audio sources, and a constant influx of diverse data streams, causing confusion and slowing down decisions and responses.

For modern organisations dealing with new challenges and evolving threats, old-fashioned, “componentised” C&C rooms with limited AV capabilities and system connectivity are inadequate to maintain situational awareness and ensure resilient security. To achieve these objectives, organisations need 24/7/365 surveillance monitoring, efficient communication, and fast, data-driven decision-making – which is only possible with a modern C&C room equipped with a state-of-the-art, unified AV system.

Key Components of Modern, Integrated AV Systems

High-impact AV systems combine video wall displays, interactive touchscreens, video conferencing, audio conferencing, and distributed audio systems with control systems and real-time data visualisations. These integrated systems facilitate enhanced, real-time communication and collaboration – vital to and ensure the organisation’s smooth functioning in any situation.

Multi-source, large-format video displays provide an overview of critical data, improving operators’ monitoring and real-time decision-making capabilities. Interactive touchscreens enable faster data manipulation and provide intuitive control over situations and crises. These visual systems connect to multiple systems like video surveillance cameras and video conferencing systems to display a huge range of visual information in digestible formats, making it easier to understand and act upon as-needed. An IP-based video management system (VMS) is another key element of today’s C&C rooms. This holistic system enables C&C teams to easily manage and view live feeds from multiple sources, providing crucial inputs for surveilling, controlling, and safeguarding high-security environments.

Distributed audio systems are also valuable to ensure high-quality, clear, and consistent communication, especially during high-stakes situations. Modern C&C rooms also leverage AV-over-IP solutions that provide enhanced flexibility and scalability for seamless transmission of AV signals over existing and growing networks.

A high-tech command centre is incomplete without an integrated control system (ICS). These systems provide centralised, visually-rich interfaces that allow operators to manage multiple AV devices, lighting, and environmental controls from a single station. The ICS thus facilitates enhanced and effortless control over operations and security infrastructure.

Modern and effective C&C rooms also rely on redundant systems. Redundant components, power, and cooling provide backup for critical AV functions and ensure reliable, fail-safe operations even in challenging conditions.

The Power of AI-enabled AV Solutions for Uncompromising Command and Control

AI is transforming C&C operations and value-creation. Sophisticated AI-powered AV systems aid C&C operators in fast data analysis and decision-making. These capabilities can often determine whether an organisation sails through a crisis or succumbs to it.

AI also helps to automate routine C&C tasks. By autonomously managing many of these activities, it saves valuable time, reduces costs, and leaves operators free to focus on strategic, high-value tasks where their abilities are truly required.

AI-powered AV systems analyse complex AV datasets and provide real-time data visualisations to enhance the situational awareness of C&C operators. They also raise automated alerts and generate actionable insights that enhance team collaboration and operational coordination. These real-time, timely insights also enable operators to prevent incidents before they escalate and avoid costly errors during critical moments.

Another great advantage of AI-powered systems: predictive maintenance capabilities! These solutions can autonomously and continuously monitor system health and predict potential failures, thus helping to reduce system downtime and maintenance costs.

Powerful, AI-enabled AV for Command and Control: Why Systems Integrators are Crucial

The true power of AV systems lies in their ability to seamlessly integrate multiple systems and integrate with existing infrastructure. Integrations allow them to communicate seamlessly with existing security, IT, and operational systems, enhancing operational capabilities and providing unified control room experiences. Effective, integrated AV systems are also scalable and adaptable, allowing for future upgrades and expansion without requiring major overhauls and also aligning with the organisation’s evolving C&C needs and goals.

However, designing and deploying high-performance AV systems and integrating them into the business ecosystem can be a mammoth undertaking for organisations. Ongoing monitoring, maintenance, and asset management can also be complex and time-consuming. A successful and reliable systems integrator would take care of all these aspects, so organisations don’t have to worry about the nitty-gritties and can instead maximise the value of their AV and C&C investments.

Tech Features

Sustainable AI Practices Driving Ethical and Green Tech

Published

1 month ago

August 12, 2025

Integrator Web-Editor

By Mansour Al Ajmi, CEO of X-Shift

Sustainable AI practices are no longer optional—they are essential for shaping technology that benefits both people and the planet. As artificial intelligence transforms industries from healthcare to transportation, the challenge is to ensure its growth is ethical, environmentally responsible, and socially inclusive. This means addressing not only energy efficiency and carbon reduction but also governance, fairness, and long-term societal impacts.

Why Sustainable AI Practices Go Beyond the Environment?

AI is now deeply embedded in investment strategies, medical diagnostics, media platforms, and public infrastructure. While reducing energy usage is vital, true sustainability also requires ethical governance and the elimination of bias.

For example, biased training datasets can unintentionally reinforce social inequality. Studies, such as those from the MIT Media Lab, have shown that some AI systems perform poorly with diverse populations, highlighting the risk of discrimination. Addressing this means conducting regular algorithmic audits, enforcing transparency, and ensuring diverse representation in AI development teams.

The Environmental Impact of AI

Training advanced AI models consumes enormous computational resources. The process can generate carbon emissions equivalent to hundreds of long-haul flights. To counter this, tech leaders are investing in renewable energy and designing energy-efficient processors and cooling systems.

However, sustainable AI practices should become the default, not the exception. From sourcing materials responsibly to rethinking hardware infrastructure, the focus must be on green innovation by design.

Embedding Sustainability at the Strategic Core

Sustainable AI practices work best when integrated into an organization’s core strategy. Aligning AI solutions with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) can directly support climate action, reduce inequalities, and promote responsible consumption.

In the Middle East, initiatives like Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and the UAE Strategy for Artificial Intelligence demonstrate how sustainability and AI can align with national priorities. These strategies not only meet ethical standards but also deliver competitive advantages, building consumer trust and fostering innovation.

Governance for Responsible AI

Strong governance is key to ensuring sustainable AI practices are upheld. Regulatory frameworks, such as the European Union’s AI Act, guide transparency, accountability, and fairness.

Governance should enable innovation while preventing harm. Public-private partnerships, global cooperation, and industry alliances are critical to creating ethical, scalable, and resilient AI ecosystems.

Preparing the Workforce for the AI Era

McKinsey estimates that AI adoption could displace up to 800 million jobs by 2030. Sustainable AI practices must include reskilling and upskilling initiatives to ensure inclusive economic growth.

By investing in training programs, organizations can help employees transition to new roles in AI-related fields. This proactive approach strengthens workforce agility and supports long-term resilience.

Leadership’s Role in Driving Sustainable AI Practices

AI can significantly advance sustainability goals, from optimizing supply chains to reducing environmental waste. Companies like Unilever are already using AI to achieve greener operations, proving its real-world potential.

Yet leadership commitment is essential. Executives must set measurable goals, model ethical behavior, and integrate sustainability into company culture. This ensures that sustainability is not a side project but a core business value.

The Shared Responsibility for a Sustainable AI Future

Creating a sustainable AI future requires collaboration between individuals, corporations, and governments. Citizens should stay informed and question how AI affects them. Companies must embed sustainability into their AI strategies, while governments need to establish policies that encourage responsible innovation.

By acting now, we can ensure AI evolves as a force for good—advancing technology without sacrificing ethics, equity, or environmental stewardship.

Check out our previous post on WHX Tech 2025 to Drive Global Digital Health Transformation

Tech Features

Epicor CMO Kerrie Jordan to Drive Global Marketing Growth

Published

1 month ago

August 12, 2025

Integrator Web-Editor

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Kerrie Jordan - Epicor — Kerrie Jordan – Epicor

Epicor CMO Kerrie Jordan has been appointed to lead the company’s global marketing strategy. This move marks a pivotal moment in the enterprise software leader’s expansion. Epicor, known for its industry-specific solutions for the make, move, and sell economy, announced the news on August 12, 2025, in Dubai.

Jordan brings a rare combination of senior product innovation and strategic marketing expertise. She will strengthen the Epicor brand, expand market reach, and deepen customer engagement worldwide.

Epicor CMO Kerrie Jordan Brings Product and Market Expertise Together

Vaibhav Vohra, Epicor President and Chief Product & Technology Officer, eVaibhav Vohra, Epicor President and Chief Product & Technology Officer, emphasized the importance of the appointment.

“Kerrie’s ability to connect product strategy with market execution makes her an ideal fit. Her leadership has already shaped our Cognitive ERP vision, and we’re excited to see her bring that same energy and insight to our marketing efforts.”

Since joining Epicor in 2023 as Group Vice President of Product Management and ISV Partner Programs, Jordan has advanced the company’s Cognitive ERP roadmap. This AI-driven approach turns ERP from a system of record into a system of action and insight, empowering supply chain businesses to operate smarter and faster.

A Vision for Accelerated Innovation and Growth

In her new role, Jordan will unite product innovation, analytics, and go-to-market strategies to accelerate customer time-to-value. She will also foster innovation and support Epicor’s global expansion.

“I’m honored to expand my role at Epicor,” Jordan said. “Epicor is at the forefront of enabling essential businesses to thrive through AI-driven, connected technologies. I look forward to amplifying our impact, building stronger relationships with customers and partners, and driving growth across global markets.”

A Career Built on Technology Leadership

Before joining Epicor, Jordan served in senior product marketing positions at Oracle. She developed strategies for enterprise software solutions and helped drive adoption. Earlier in her career, she led strategic marketing programs for technology clients during her consulting roles at global marketing firms.

Jordan is a recognized voice in cloud ERP, digital transformation, and supply chain innovation. She hosts Epicor’s “Manufacturing the Future” podcast, which features industry leaders discussing trends shaping manufacturing and supply chain sectors. She is also a Forbes Tech Council contributor. Jordan holds a Bachelor of Science in Marketing from Santa Clara University in California.

Epicor’s Commitment to Industry-Focused Growth

Epicor has served customers across automotive, building supply, distribution, manufacturing, and retail for more than 50 years. The company’s solutions are tailored to industry needs and adaptable to fast-changing market conditions.

Check out our previous post on WHX Tech 2025 to Drive Global Digital Health Transformation

Tech Features

In-Hand Comfort Meets Elegant Design – A UI You’ll Love and Performance You Can Count On– Meet Oppo’s Reno 14 Series!

Published

1 month ago

August 11, 2025

Integrator Web-Editor

Oppo Reno 14 Series promotional collage highlighting design and performance

Reviewed By Srijith KN
Device Reno 14F 5G

In today’s crowded smartphone market, very few devices make a lasting impression from the first hold. The Oppo Reno 14 Series does exactly that. Its rounded front design, sharp edges, and striking Iridescent Mermaid finish give it a premium look that stands out. At just 7.42 mm thick and 187 g, with aluminium-framed edges, it feels light yet sturdy in the hand.

The 6.57-inch LTPS OLED display offers a 120 Hz Full HD+ experience with HDR10+ support and a peak brightness of 1,200 nits. While the brightness could be slightly higher, the rich colour tones make it ideal for streaming and gaming. The high refresh rate ensures smooth scrolling and responsive visuals.

Display & Performance in the Oppo Reno 14

Powered by the Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 mobile platform, paired with 12 GB of RAM and 512 GB of UFS 3.1 storage, the Oppo Reno 14 Series delivers fluid performance. Everyday tasks, multitasking, and gaming feel effortless. Even after a month of use, there’s no lag, and the phone remains cool under pressure.

The signal reception is equally reliable, performing well even in remote mountain regions. For gamers, the combination of smooth frame rates and strong connectivity makes it a dependable choice.

Camera Setup Built for Creativity

The Oppo Reno 14 Series brings a 32 MP front camera and a triple rear camera system (50 MP + 8 MP + 2 MP). It supports 4K 60 fps HDR video recording, delivering sharp and vibrant footage. Oppo’s image processing handles lighting well, although the AI can occasionally produce slightly artificial tones. When it dials back the processing, the results are impressively natural.

Selfies from the front camera are detailed, making it a strong option for content creators. AI-powered tools such as AI Eraser, AI Reflection Remover, AI Unblur, AI Recompose, and AI Perfect Shot add versatility. Beyond photography, features like real-time translation and cloud-based voice transcription offer extra value.

Battery Life & Charging Speed on the Oppo Reno 14

Battery performance is one of the standout features. The massive 6,000 mAh battery easily lasts over a day of heavy use. Paired with 80 W fast charging, it goes from 0% to 100% in just 40–50 minutes, reducing downtime significantly.

Software and User Experience

Running on ColorOS 15, the interface is polished and responsive. The design is intuitive, though it comes with pre-installed apps that many users may want to remove for a cleaner setup. The combination of IP69 water and dust resistance, strong haptics, and a promised five years of major updates enhances its long-term value.

Verdict: A Strong Contender in Its Price Range

The Oppo Reno 14 Series blends premium design, solid performance, long battery life, and camera versatility into a package that offers excellent value. Whether for everyday use, creative projects, or gaming, it meets a wide range of needs without compromise.

For readers who enjoyed this review, check out our previous feature on Sustainable Tech: How Globant Shapes a Greener Tomorrow to see how innovation is shaping the tech industry.