Optimize Your Meetings With These Conference Room Solutions

Your conference room should adjust to how you currently do business. Explore the advantages of updating your rooms and the necessary tools and technology.

Benefits of Leveraging the Latest Conference Room Solutions

Updating conference room technology is vital for businesses for several reasons, reflecting the changing dynamics of the modern workplace, evolving technology trends, and the need for efficiency and productivity. Here’s why a business might consider upgrading their conference room technology:

Enhanced Collaboration

Modern businesses often rely on teamwork that spans different locations and time zones. Up-to-date conference technology supports a variety of collaborative tools and platforms, enabling seamless communication and data sharing among team members, regardless of their physical location.

Improved Communication

High-quality audio and video equipment facilitate clearer and more effective communication, ensuring that meetings are productive and that participants can engage as if they were all in the same room. This is particularly important in an era where hybrid and remote work are becoming the norm.

Efficiency and Productivity

New technology can automate and streamline meeting processes, from scheduling to conclusion. For example, wireless connectivity and screen sharing save time, while advanced software can help with agenda setting, note-taking, and follow-ups, leading to more organized and efficient meetings.

Competitive Edge

A business equipped with the latest conference room technology can make a strong impression on clients, partners, and employees. It signals that the company is forward-thinking and committed to leveraging technology for optimal outcomes. This can be a deciding factor in business negotiations or attracting top talent.

Future-Proofing

Technology evolves at a fast pace. Businesses can ensure they remain compatible with emerging technologies and communication platforms by investing in scalable and upgradable conference room solutions. This foresight reduces the need for frequent overhauls and supports long-term planning and budgeting.

Increased Security

Modern conference technologies often have advanced security features to protect sensitive information shared during meetings. Keeping technology updated is crucial to safeguard against cyber threats and data breaches, which are becoming increasingly sophisticated.

Adaptability

Today’s conference room technologies offer modular and flexible solutions that adapt to various meeting types and sizes. Businesses can customize their setup according to their specific needs, whether for large presentations, small team discussions, client pitches, or virtual events.

Cost-Effectiveness

While upgrading technology requires an upfront investment, over time, it can lead to significant savings through improved efficiency, reduced travel costs (by facilitating remote meetings), and lower maintenance costs due to the reliability and longevity of modern equipment.

Environmental Sustainability

Many newer technologies emphasize sustainability, with features that reduce energy consumption and waste. Businesses can improve their environmental footprint while potentially benefiting from incentives related to green technologies.

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Conference Room Solutions You Should Consider

Modern conference room solutions and presentation technologies have evolved significantly, offering businesses a range of tools and equipment designed to enhance communication, collaboration, and efficiency. Here is a comprehensive overview of the different types of modern conference room solutions and presentation technologies that businesses might need:

High-Quality Audio and Video Systems

Clear audio and crisp video are essential for effective communication. Modern conference rooms often feature professional-grade microphones, speakers, and HD or 4K video cameras. These systems ensure that all participants, whether in-room or joining remotely, can hear and see clearly, making for a more inclusive and engaging meeting experience.

Video Conferencing Platforms and Software

Tools like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Cisco Webex, and Google Meet have become staples in the modern workplace. They support virtual meetings, allowing participants to join from anywhere worldwide. These platforms often have features like screen sharing, virtual backgrounds, recording capabilities, and integrated chat functions, adding flexibility and dynamism to presentations and discussions.

Interactive Whiteboards and Displays

Interactive displays, such as SMART Boards or Microsoft Surface Hubs, allow presenters to interact directly with the displayed content, using touch or styluses for annotation, drawing, or navigating. These tools facilitate more engaging and collaborative sessions, making it easier to visualize concepts and work through ideas as a group.

Wireless Presentation Systems

Technologies like Barco ClickShare or wireless HDMI systems enable presenters to share their screens wirelessly from their laptops, tablets, or smartphones. This eliminates the need for cables and adaptors, making switching between presenters and sources simple, thereby streamlining the presentation process.

Digital Signage

Used both within and outside conference rooms, digital signage can provide information about meeting schedules, company announcements, or even welcome messages for visitors. These displays can be interactive or static, adding a modern and professional touch to the business environment.

Room Scheduling Systems

Integrated room booking and scheduling systems help manage conference room usage efficiently. Platforms like Teem, Robin, or Condeco allow employees to book rooms through an app, web interface, or even directly through a panel outside the room, reducing double bookings and optimizing space utilization.

Advanced Connectivity Options

Modern conference rooms offer various connectivity options to accommodate different devices and inputs. This includes traditional HDMI and USB ports and newer standards like USB-C and Thunderbolt, ensuring that any device can be easily connected to the room’s presentation system.

Soundproofing and Acoustic Treatments

Modern conference rooms often include soundproofing materials and acoustic treatments to ensure that meetings are not interrupted by external noise and that sound quality within the room is optimal. These can range from specialized ceiling tiles and wall panels to sound-absorbing carpets and curtains.

Environment and Lighting Control Systems

Automated systems for controlling lights, window shades, and even room temperature help create an optimal meeting environment. Smart lighting can adjust based on the time of day or the type of meeting, while motorized shades can reduce glare on screens, all contributing to a comfortable and productive meeting space.

Collaboration and Project Management Tools

Integrating tools like Slack, Asana, Trello, or Microsoft Planner within the conference room setup can help teams track projects, share documents, and communicate in real-time directly from the meeting space.

Paramount Companies: Helping Companies Across Multiple Industries With Their Conference Room Audio Video Solutions

Leveraging the latest conference room solutions is key for staying ahead of the competition. Paramount Companies offers the latest audio video solutions that will give your business a boost. We have experience helping companies across various sectors, including:

Contact us today to learn more about our conference room solutions.

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The Benefits of Access Control Systems

Digital and physical security is paramount in today’s technological landscape. Access control systems are a significant player in safeguarding resources and managing traffic flow.

This article explores access control systems and the considerations when implementing them.

Understanding Access Control Systems

Access control systems are essential tools to maximize building security and protect assets. Explore your access control options today.

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The Perks of Access Control Systems

The transition from traditional lock-and-key systems to advanced access control has presented countless advantages for businesses of all sizes. Beyond standard physical security, access systems offer several other compelling benefits like:

Enhanced Security and Safety

The goal of any access control solution is to protect assets, spaces, and people by specifying who accesses specific areas and when. These systems significantly improve the security of your commercial facility by restricting entry to authorized personnel only, preventing break-ins, theft, and other security breaches.

The contemporary network access control system uses keyless entry systems, mobile access, or even biometrics such as facial recognition. Coupled with alarm locks and video surveillance, this is a robust security system that mechanical keys cannot match.

Convenience and Efficiency

Modern access controls offer unrivaled convenience. By replacing mechanical keys with mobile credentials or an employee badge, you streamline entry procedures and boost efficiency.

Access control solutions also integrate seamlessly with other network systems, combining physical security with data security. Users can enjoy the comfort of single badge access, eliminating the need for multiple credentials.

Compliance

Leading manufacturers of access control systems design the technology with strict adherence to evolving regulations. This is invaluable for businesses that are required to use strict security measures for compliance with industry standards, regulations, and laws.

Audit Trails and Accountability

Perhaps one of the most significant benefits of access control technology is having audit trails. Access systems keep detailed logs of all access events, including who accessed what, when, and for how long. This information is invaluable for security audits, investigations, and compliance.

Customizable and Scalable Solutions

Unlike traditional key-based access control, modern systems are highly customizable. Security managers can define access rights based on an employee’s role, time, and area to reflect the business’s security model. Scalability ensures that as your small business grows, your security systems can grow with it.

What to Consider When Implementing Access Controls

While the benefits of access control systems are apparent, there are some factors to consider before implementing them into your security operations.

  • Security Needs and Objectives: Start by defining your security objectives. What are you trying to protect, and what level of security is required? Consider potential threats like unauthorized access, theft, vandalism, or data breaches and design the system accordingly.
  • Risk Assessment: A thorough assessment can identify your building’s vulnerabilities and risks. This helps determine the necessary security measures.
  • Access Control Technology: Choose the appropriate access control technology, such as key card readers, biometric scanners (fingerprint or facial recognition), PIN pads, or mobile access solutions.
  • Access Control Policies: Develop access control policies, including who has access to what areas, during what times, and under what conditions. Implement role-based access control (RBAC) to simplify access management.
  • Integration with Other Systems: Make sure your access control systems can integrate with other security systems, such as surveillance cameras and fire alarms. Integration with building management systems can also improve overall efficiency.
  • Compliance Requirements: Determine whether your industry or region has regulatory requirements related to access control and security. Make sure your system complies with these regulations.
  • Scalability and Future Expansion: Consider the scalability of the access system. Will it accommodate the growth of your business or the addition of new access points in the future?
  • Costs and Budgeting: Determine the budget for implementing and maintaining the access control system. Consider both upfront costs and ongoing expenses, including maintenance and software updates.
  • Maintenance and Support: Establish a maintenance schedule and consider a support contract with the vendor to keep the system up to date.
  • Emergency Plans: To ensure business continuity and safety, develop emergency plans for system failures, power outages, and lockouts.

By carefully considering these factors and working with experienced security professionals, you can implement an access control system that aligns with your business’s needs and ensures safety.

Secure Your Commercial Building With Paramount Companies

As a family-owned and operated business, Paramount Companies knows how important it is to protect your property. That’s why our experts are committed to installing state-of-the-art access control systems for each and every client. With controlled access, our systems tighten your security measures and keep your assets safe.

Want to limit access to your commercial building? Contact us today to learn more and get started.

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Benefits of Outdoor Security Lighting

Are you concerned about protecting your commercial and residential property from burglars and break-ins? Those concerns are justified—burglaries accounted for 16% of all property crimes in 2019. Outdoor security lighting might be the additional security you’ve been looking for to deter any unwanted visitors.

What Is a Security Light?

Security lighting is a protective type of lighting that helps keep unwanted visitors, both human and animal, out of your home or business. 

These lights enhance your facility’s overall safety because they typically scare off intruders and invasive animals. Security lights are usually automatic and operate with motion sensors. When something moves in front of your security light, it turns on to warn perpetrators that they’re being watched.

Benefits of Security Lighting for Homeowners

Many animals are scared by bright light, so security lighting is beneficial for homes with gardens. Your plants will stay safe from raccoons and rabbits when they set off your automatic light sensors.

If your home is in the city or a high-crime area, security lighting warns burglars that you have a security system in place and indicates that they’ll be caught doing anything on your property.

You can integrate your security lights with your alarm system and have double the defense against burglars.

Benefits of Security Lighting for Commercial Businesses

Security lights act as your building’s first layer of defense. Most commercial businesses have security and surveillance systems. These lights are an excellent addition, as they tell burglars that someone or something can see them.

Do Security Lights Deter Burglars?

Another benefit of security lights is that they help deter burglars. According to a University of North Carolina study, nearly 60% of burglars say the presence of security lighting and systems deter them from breaking in. There are several ways to utilize your outdoor security lights to deter burglars:

  • Set a timer on your outdoor security lighting: Many smart lighting systems have the option of setting timers so burglars think someone is in your building. If lights are left on all day, it doesn’t seem like anyone is home, because most people don’t leave their lights on all the time. Have your outdoor security lights turn on and off periodically, so it seems like someone is inside.
  • Integrate your outdoor security lighting with your security system: Motion-sensor lights are a great addition to your security system. Outdoor lighting warns intruders while your alarm system stops them. Together, these two solutions create robust protection for your business.
  • Choose motion-sensor flood lights: Motion-sensor lights only light up when someone or something passes them. If your security lights are on 24/7, they might not effectively stop burglars from entering your commercial property. Motion-activated lights startle burglars and drive them away.

How To Install an Outdoor Security Light

Follow these steps to install an outdoor security light properly:

  1. Find a convenient light source near the location of your new security lighting. Shut off the light’s power source.
  2. Cut the wire’s existing connection with a wire cutter.
  3. Drill an outlet hole through the exterior siding with a 1⅜-inch spade drill bit. Run a 14-gauge wire leading from inside to outside.
  4. Assemble your security light.
  5. Attach the power wires to the light’s wires. Cover the wires with connector nuts.
  6. Attach a flexible putty around your home/building’s exterior hole. This putty serves as a weather-tight seal for your light.
  7. Install the light fixture and electrical box on the building exterior with a power drill and screws.
  8. Replace your existing outlet with a switch-over outlet to protect it.

The installation process is simple if you have experience installing light fixtures. If you need help installing your security lighting, many electric companies offer installation as a part of their service. Hiring an electrician also ensures the installation is done correctly and safely.

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How Bright Should Outdoor Floodlights Be?

Most floodlights require 700 to 1,300 lumens to be bright enough. The brighter your lights, the more secure your space. Motion sensor lights require 300 to 700 lumens. Base your exterior light brightness choice on the size of your outdoor space.

Bright outdoor floodlights are typically used for parking lot security lighting. Not only do security flood lights help people see potholes and debris, but they also enhance a building’s overall safety. Many floodlights have security cameras that monitor everything happening in a parking lot in case anything suspicious happens. 

These lights also give a clear pathway to your vehicle and make it easier to spot suspicious behavior.

Need Help With Outdoor Security Lighting?

If you don’t know where to start with outdoor security lighting, Paramount Companies can help. We’re an industry leader in lighting solutions and security systems and develop custom systems for businesses and homes of any size.


Whether you want to add additional lighting to your existing system or install an entirely new lighting solution, we do it all. Let us help you protect your property with innovative security systems. Contact us today to get started.

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Your Guide To Lowering Summer Electric Bills

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Are you tired of AC making your electric bill high in the summer? Use this guide to reduce your electricity usage and save money during the hot season.

In St. Louis, the temperature gets up to 100 degrees in the summer. That high temperature mixed with the constant humidity means an increase in AC usage. How can you save money on electricity when using your AC unit? Here are some tips and tricks that’ll help you save on electric bills this summer: 

Purchase a Smart Thermostat

While the initial cost of a smart thermostat is higher than a standard thermostat, it saves you money over time. On average, smart thermostats save customers 15% on air conditioning and around $140 per year, so the $200 investment is definitely worth it.

Features of these thermostats include:

  • Automatically developing a schedule based on your preferred temperatures
  • Providing regular energy usage data so you can manage it
  • Remote control of temperature via your smartphone

Turn Off Your AC When You Don’t Need It

Turn off your AC at night when it’s cooler, when you’re sleeping, or when you’re not home. Keep your thermostat set between 78 and 80 degrees to maintain a consistent temperature. On average, you can save 4% to 8% on cooling costs for every degree you raise your thermostat.

Many people believe that turning your AC on and off regularly costs more because it “strains your system.” According to A+ Air Conditioning, that is 100% false. Your AC wastes energy when no one is home, so turning it off when you don’t need it cuts your summer electric costs and improves your overall system.

Use Your Ceiling Fan

Using your ceiling or box fan when the heat is less intense helps cool your space without using your air conditioner. It’s no secret that using your AC more increases your summer electric bills; fans are a great alternative when the heat is bearable. 

We recommend using a fan during the night instead if you sleep with the AC on, as it effectively cools your room but costs a fraction of the price. 

Keep the Sun Out With Blinds and Curtains

Outside light brings heat into your home, making AC a necessity when it doesn’t have to be. Closing your curtains keeps the light out, which in turn keeps the heat out. Blinds and curtains reduce heat gain by nearly 45%, helping you lower your summer electric bill.

Install Your AC Unit Away From Windows

If you’re installing a new AC unit, stay away from window units, if possible. Placing your unit in your window puts it in direct sunlight during the hottest parts of the day. Your AC has to work harder to cool down itself and your space when it’s in the sunlight.

Consider alternative options like central AC or ductless mini-split AC.

Switch to LED Lights

LED lights emit minimal heat, whereas standard incandescent lights release 90% of their energy as heat. On top of that, LED bulbs use 80% less electricity and last longer, so you save on bulb replacement and electricity costs.

Do you want to learn more about how LED bulbs can improve your home or business’s energy efficiency?

Read Our Blog On LED Lighting

Managing Summer Electricity Benefits You in the Winter

There’s a significant difference between electricity usage in the winter vs. summer. Winter electricity bills are almost always higher than in the summer because AC and ceiling fans turn into space heaters, electric blankets, water heaters, and heating systems. By keeping your summer electric bills low, you level out the costs of winter electric.

Implementing the above tips will save you money during the summer and allow you to save for your future winter electricity bills.

Want To Save on Electric Bills This Summer?

Paramount Companies can help you lower your summer electric bill with quality LED lighting services. We specialize in commercial and residential electric services and find cost-effective, energy-saving solutions for homes and businesses of all sizes. 

Our expert team has got you covered, whether you’re starting a new lighting project or want to enhance your existing lighting fixtures. Contact us today to get started.

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Benefits of LED Lighting for Commercial Buildings

Did you know LED lights use at least 75% less energy than standard fluorescent lights?

Energy Efficient Lighting for Commercial Buildings

LED (light-emitting diode) lighting is the most popular type of lighting in the 21st century, with over 50% of all light sources using LED. Researchers expect nearly 87% of light sources to be LED by 2030.

Why has LED technology become so common amongst business owners? There are several benefits to LED lighting:

Increased Energy Efficiency

LED lights save energy, are efficient, and use at least 75% less energy than standard bulbs. They also last up to 25 times longer, creating less waste because you don’t need to replace them as often. 

Widespread commercial LED use can significantly impact energy savings in America. Commercial buildings require a large number of lighting sources. Replacing incandescent and fluorescent lighting with LED in your commercial facility reduces your energy consumption.

When Starbucks, one of the largest global coffee companies, implemented LED lighting into 1,000 stores, each store started using 7% less energy. One location in New York now saves $11,750 per year of energy costs, showing the effectiveness of LED lighting on energy consumption.

Cost Savings

Starbucks is just one example of cost savings due to LED lighting. While the initial installation cost is more expensive than fluorescent or incandescent lighting, businesses see substantial cost savings over time after making the switch

The average business saves around $13 per light bulb per year with LED bulbs—that’s over $600 a year for commercial companies with large amounts of light sources. And, because LED bulbs have a lifespan of 20 years, you don’t replace them as often or purchase as many! 

You can save as much as $4,000 in 20 years by switching to LED lighting.

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More Reliable Lighting

A major benefit of LED lights is that they’re significantly more reliable than traditional lights. Not only do they last longer, but they’re also brighter and don’t break as easily.

LED bulbs provide consistent, non-flickering light, adding instant brightness for any business. This is especially helpful in manufacturing, construction, engineering, and recycling industries that require intense light sources to complete their work.

As we stated earlier, LED bulbs have a typical lifespan of nearly 20 years. On average, light bulbs are in use for 10 hours a day. Let’s compare the performance of traditional light bulbs to LED bulbs based on a 10-hour daily use:

Bulb TypePerformance
Incandescent Bulbs1,000 hour lifespan
Fluorescent Bulbs15,000 hour lifespan
LED Bulbs25,000 to 200,000 hour lifespan

LED lights are significantly more reliable, and over time, they don’t decrease in brightness, making them the best lighting choice for those who need long-lasting, bright, and reliable bulbs.

What Are The Types of LED Lights?

There are several types of LED lights that serve different purposes:

Dual In-Line Package (DIP) Chip LEDs

DIP LEDs are traditional LED lights. They’re encased in hard plastic and typically have two straight, parallel connecting pins, and their cylinder shape improves light projection and produces a consistent flow of electricity.

Benefits of DIP LEDs include:

  • Resistance to impacts and blows
  • Increased durability
  • High visibility from long distances

DIPs produce around four lumens per light and are typically used for:

  • Informative LED panels
  • Digital signaling panels
  • Exterior screens

Chip on Board (COB) LEDs

COB LEDs include multiple LED chips, usually nine or more, connected to a substrate to form a singular light. COBs have high LED efficiency and produce around 100 lumens per unit.

These LED structures are used for:

  • Smart devices
  • Cameras
  • High-bay lighting
  • Street lights
  • High-output track lights

The benefits of COB lights are:

  • Increased lumen density
  • Highly focused light
  • Lower failure rates
  • Compact design

Surface-Mounted Diode (SMD) LEDs

SMD lights are LED lights that are mounted onto a circuit board that can hold up to three diodes. These LEDs have no wires, a lifespan of 100,000 hours, and produce 50 to 100 lumens per light.

Typical benefits of SMD LEDs are:

  • The ability to change color
  • Significant brightness
  • Increased versatility
  • Quality heat dissipation
  • Smaller size

You would utilize these lights for:

  • Industrial lighting systems
  • Personal electronics
  • Projectors and televisions
  • LED strip lighting

Where Can I Get Quality LED Lighting for My Business?

Paramount Companies installs LED light fixtures for industrial and commercial businesses.

We’re a leading expert in LED technology and install light fixtures of all sizes, so you can experience the benefits of LED lighting. Contact us today to learn more about our LED solutions and how we can help lower your energy usage and costs.

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