Luxury Hoteliers Magazine 3rd Quarter 2021 | Page 46

Summary
Most of us have learned to tolerate participating in virtual events that feature rather low quality .
Fortunately for hotels and other meeting venues , we ’ re seeing evolutionary advances in the UCC platforms ’ functionality and quality . Just as importantly , attendees themselves are beginning to be more aware of camera angles and lighting , actual and virtual backgrounds , microphones and room acoustics , etc . — in other words , all of the elements that support a more professional event that engages all attendees , both inperson and remote .
With a little planning and thoughtful application of the principles of ArchiTechnology , you can arrange for a hybrid event where remote attendees ’ experience is much more welcoming and enjoyable . And as a byproduct of intentionally designing an event space to accommodate hybrid meetings , the space itself becomes even more friendly and accommodating for the in-person , analog , human attendee , as well . The quality of experience for both inperson and remote attendees is elevated , and you ’ re also setting new quality standards and exceeding customer ’ s expectations . That ’ s a great reputation to strive for in any marketplace .
When we meet again Ready Room Explainer
About the author
Business Advisors Consortium Jeff Loether is a leader in both the hospitality and event technology industries , and provides world-class ArchiTechnology consulting for entertainment and event spaces . His 40 + years of experience and reputation makes him the prime resource for architects , hotel developers , and management companies looking to optimize their event and entertainment venues through practical design and profitable operations . Jeff authored the Master Design Brand Standards for Audio Visual and Acoustics for many of the industry ’ s leading five-star hotel flags and for the International Association of Conference Centers .
In 1990 , Jeff founded Electro-Media Design Ltd ., as he saw the need to create a cooperative independent consulting practice ( no equipment sales ) that supports innovative and practical approaches to Audio Visual ( A / V ) and Building Acoustics design and implementation . His team ’ s mission is to provide clients : “ Better Meetings = Better Bottom Line ” results by designing costeffective and reliable systems that are easy to use . They also develop Managed Event Technology Service departments for client hotels that provide great guest service and experiences . It is these two paired-components that create the highest ROI for the owner and property manager .
Background Prior to establishing Electro-Media Design , Ltd . Jeff served as the Manager of Audio / Video Systems Design for Marriott ’ s Architecture and Construction Division from 1980 to 1990 . He developed the Master Standards and directed the conceptual development , design document production , procurement , installation , testing , and the final acceptance of presentation and entertainment media systems for all of Marriott ’ s various facilities worldwide . While with Marriott , he completed over 250 projects including those for four and five-star resorts , convention and conference centers , corporate and educational facilities , and senior living communities . Jeff received his BGS degree in Audio Technology and Computers for Business from American University in 1985 .
Accolades Throughout his career with Marriott and since , as a technology consulting professional within the hospitality industry , Jeff is recognized as one of its thought-leaders and has developed and taught many workshops , seminars , and classes for the design and facility management industries . He serves as the Technology Partner to the International Association of Conference Centers and received the Award for Excellence in Education and the Pyramid Award for his work with IACC . Jeff is also an Adjunct Instructor for InfoComm and the International Communications Industries Association , the leading A / V trade association .
Affiliations Jeff was inducted into the International Society of Hospitality Consultants ( ISHC ) in recognition of his accomplishments . He is a Founding Member of the Independent Consultants in Audiovisual Technologies ( ICAT ), a council of InfoComm and is currently serving on the Board of Directors , North America for the International Association of Conference Centers ( IACC ).
Personal He enjoys boating on the Chesapeake with his bride , Lilly , aboard their Coaster , WaterLilly . Jeff also has developed and licensed several inventions and enjoys woodworking , barbershop singing , and handcrafting exceptional hot pepper relish from his pepper garden .
Audio Visual and Building Acoustics Design , Development , Consulting , Operations Company : Electro-Media Design , Ltd . Website : www . electro-media . com Email : jloether @ electro-media . com Phone : 301-355-5050 Location : Gaithersburg , Maryland , Myrtle Beach SC , and Orlando , Florida
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