SMART Boards Explained
SMART boards and interactive whiteboards have become the latest, must-have technology in the corporate and educational environment. They have found rapid acceptance in these environments because they allow colleagues, educators, and students to communicate, access, and share information to a degree not possible before. Educators and trainers in all sectors have been dramatically influenced by the appearance of SMART boards. Although many people use the terms SMART boards and interactive whiteboards interchangeably, they are similar but not the same thing.
The Origins of SMART Boards
The name SMART board comes from the Canadian technology company, who pioneered the technology, creating the first interactive device that was able to provide touch controls in the same way as a computer with a touch screen. They developed the technology, which they called DViT (Digital Vision Touch), that enables more than one person to use the device from different locations. Picture a large interactive tablet that multiple users can write on remotely.
What to Know About SMART Boards
SMART boards don’t usually feature projector access or use a projector. They can, however, connect to apps and receive casts from external devices. These devices are essentially the brand name of a device that falls into the general category of interactive whiteboards. SMART boards are computer screens that can be blown up via a projector, whereas many interactive whiteboards are whiteboards or projectors with touch functionality. SMART boards, being the equivalent of a large computer screen, allow access to the internet and use a system that supports a variety of engaging and handy features.
Whether one decides to invest in SMART boards or one of the other interactive whiteboard technologies depends very much on which features will best suit the particular environment that the device is intended for.
Interactive whiteboards come in different makes and models with different features, so consulting the right supplier that understands and can explain the differences is important.
Any type of interactive whiteboard is a technology that will take the training and learning process to the next level. Corporate educators and training institutions of all kinds will find that this technology will significantly improve the training experience for both educators and learners. SMART boards are far more than digital versions of the old overhead projector, but do they live up to the hype?
Are They Suited to The Office Environment?
The hype around these devices in the educational and training sectors may be justified but what about outside of the classroom? Can they also add real benefit in the office environment? The answer is most definitely yes! SMART boards are generally considered the best device for an office environment. They enable remote communication, enhance collaboration in meetings by facilitating file transfers, and allow the annotation of documents by any of the meeting participants. While older versions of the SMART board only worked with one point of contact on the board at a time, the latest come equipped with multi-touch technology, which allows multiple participants to collaborate with the board, which can respond to multiple touches at the same time. This means, for instance, that two or more colleagues can draw a diagram at the same time in an interactive collaboration.
Research shows that the use of SMART boards may improve order and organisation among meeting participants, up the level of clarity, generate more interest, and improve business creativity. They empower colleagues to collaborate across devices, time zones, and offices, as if they were in the same room, significantly enhancing productivity.
Go With an Industry Leader
When it comes to buying the best solution, whether interactive whiteboard or SMART board, choose an office equipment company that offers industry-leading technology and brands, paired with unparalleled service and support. If you need professional collaboration on product, software, and ancillary services, we at Raydian offer unmatched quality, a comprehensive range, and competitive pricing. Negotiate any questions around which technology, what features, and which brand and model to go with in consultation with the experts.
We will give you informed, honest advice on what’s best for you when it comes to these leading-edge devices. Let us facilitate a more productive, cost-efficient, and integrated workplace for you. We will consult on, install, and maintain exactly the right device for your business. Contact us today for one of our multi-branded office automation products.