The Challenge

As top-tier professional schools adapt to a modern educational landscape, the Poole College of Management (PCOM) recognized a growing student reliance on distance learning and high-quality recorded content.

PCOM challenged the design team to create a "showplace" classroom equipped with advanced video technology. The primary goals were:

• Versatility: The room needed to host multi-camera recordings, live distance learning events, and web conferences simultaneously.

• Aesthetics: Technology had to be integrated into a sleek, sophisticated architectural environment without being visually disruptive.

• Usability: The system required a dual-nature interface—simple and intuitive for faculty during daily classes, yet powerful enough for technicians to produce professional-grade content when needed.

The Solution

Working in close collaboration with architects, KONTEK developed a turnkey audio/video system that prioritizes both form and function.

Key architectural integrations included:

• Hidden Technology: Visible components were built directly into walls, ceilings, and furniture.

• Custom Furniture: A bespoke instructor’s lectern was designed to house essential controls while maintaining the room's aesthetic.

• Instructor Freedom: Wireless presentation technology combined with automatic camera and microphone systems allows faculty to roam the room freely without being tethered to the podium.

• Dual-Mode Control: While faculty use an intuitive touch panel for daily operations, a technician can take full control from an adjacent production room for high-stakes live streaming or recording.

System Highlights

• Production Control Room: A fully equipped suite for live streaming and multi-camera recording.

• Smart Tracking: Four HD pan/tilt/zoom cameras featuring automatic tracking and joystick manual overrides.

• High-Visibility Displays: Dual 90” primary video displays for students, complemented by dual 55” confidence monitors for the instructor.

• Advanced Audio: Flush-mounted ceiling microphones for total mobility and wireless in-ear monitors for private communication between the instructor and the technician.

• Accessibility: An ADA-compliant adjustable height lectern and a ceiling-mounted document camera.

The Results

The project successfully delivered a cutting-edge environment that bridges the gap between traditional instruction and digital-first learning.

“We seek to install creative, innovating thinking in our students, and KONTEK’s work provides a perfect example. They brought great ideas and problem-solving skills to our design team and delivered a finished product (on time!) that will be critical as we train the next generation of business leaders.”  

— Franklin Finch, Director of Information Technology, Poole College of Management