Ashurst LLP, an international law firm, has revolutionized its conference rooms with Crestron solutions.

General description

How did your team learn about this project and at what stage of development were you brought in?

GMS was approached by Ashurst LLP, an international law firm, to enhance their conference rooms in Frankfurt and Munich. We were brought in at the initial planning stage to ensure that the technology infrastructure would support their vision for seamless hybrid meetings. Our early involvement allowed us to align the technological solutions with Ashurst’s specific needs and goals from the outset.

Had you worked with this customer previously?

No, the Ashurst engagement was a net new win for us in Germany. However, other GPA teams worldwide did work with the customer before.

What other design teams were involved? Describe the collaboration among those groups.

The project involved close collaboration with Ashurst’s internal IT and facilities teams, as well as external design consultants and architects. Our role was to integrate the AV technology seamlessly into the overall design, ensuring that the aesthetic and functional requirements were met. Regular meetings and open communication channels were key to coordinating efforts and ensuring that all aspects of the project were aligned. Our holistic plan, build, operate approach was well received by Ashurst

The primary goal was to create high class, state-of-the-art conference rooms that facilitate hybrid meetings, allowing both in-person and remote participants to collaborate effectively. The solution needed to be user-friendly, reliable, and scalable. Additionally, the technology had to be intuitive enough for users to operate without extensive training, ensuring a smooth and efficient meeting experience.

The challenge

How did your team deliver on those requirements?

Ashurst wanted to ensure that their conference rooms provided an exceptional experience for hybrid meetings. We delivered on these requirements by standardizing the technology on Crestron UC Flex, which supports Microsoft Teams, BYOD solutions, and room control. This standardization ensured a consistent user experience across all rooms and simplified the management and maintenance of the systems.

Did your team add any additional features to the system as the project developed?

Yes, as the project progressed, we integrated additional features such as enhanced audio solutions and a multi camera setup to improve the overall user experience. These additions were based on feedback from Ashurst’s team and aimed at further enhancing the functionality and ease of use of the conference rooms.

Were there any bumps in the road? How did your team overcome those?

One challenge was ensuring the seamless integration of various technologies from different manufacturers. Our team overcame this by thorough planning, testing, and collaboration with the manufacturers to ensure compatibility and optimal performance. The whole setup was tested in our central warehouse before the installation to avoid any unforeseen issues. Additionally, we faced logistical challenges related to the installation in a high-rise building, which we addressed through meticulous scheduling and coordination with the building management.

The solution

What made Crestron the right fit for this project?

Crestron was the ideal choice due to its robust and flexible UC Flex platform, which supports a wide range of collaboration tools and integrates seamlessly with other systems. Crestron’s reputation for reliability and innovation made it the perfect fit for Ashurst’s high standards.

Why did you select the solutions you did?

We selected Crestron UC Flex for its reliability, ease of use, and comprehensive feature set, which includes support for Microsoft Teams, BYOD, and room control. This ensured that Ashurst’s conference rooms would meet their high standards for hybrid meetings. The ability to integrate with other technologies, such as LG displays and Biamp audio systems, further enhanced the overall solution.

What was the result of the experience delivered to your client?

The result was a set of conference rooms that exceeded Ashurst’s expectations, providing a seamless and intuitive experience for both in-person and remote participants. The technology enhanced their ability to collaborate effectively, regardless of location. The feedback from Ashurst’s team has been positive, highlighting the improved meeting efficiency and user satisfaction.

How is the system commonly used?

The system is used daily for a variety of meetings, including internal team meetings, client consultations, and large-scale presentations. The flexibility of the Crestron UC Flex platform allows Ashurst to adapt the rooms to different meeting formats easily. The intuitive touch screens and integrated control systems make it simple for users to start meetings and manage room functions.

What has been the biggest benefit for the client?

The biggest benefit for Ashurst has been the improved efficiency and effectiveness of their meetings. The seamless integration of technology has reduced the time spent on technical issues and allowed their teams to focus on collaboration and decision- making. The standardized technology across all rooms has also simplified training
and support, further enhancing the user experience.

How do these solutions enhance the work at the client’s workplace?

The solutions enhance Ashurst’s workplace by providing reliable and user-friendly technology that supports their hybrid work model. This has improved communication and collaboration, leading to better outcomes for their clients. The ability to easily connect and collaborate with remote participants has been particularly valuable in maintaining productivity and engagement.

The category 

What makes this project unique from others you have completed in the past?

This project stands out due to its comprehensive integration of Crestron UC Flex technology, which provided a seamless and unified solution for hybrid meetings. The scale and complexity of the implementation, combined with Ashurst LLP's high expectations for both functionality and aesthetics, made this endeavor particularly distinctive. Unlike standard projects, this required meticulous planning to ensure that the advanced features, such as room scheduling systems and enhanced audio solutions, were flawlessly integrated into the overall setup. These features not only streamlined operations but also elevated the user experience, making it easier for Ashurst’s team to conduct their daily work efficiently. Furthermore, the project successfully balanced technical excellence with aesthetic considerations, ensuring that the technology complemented the modern and professional design of Ashurst’s office spaces.

Are there any “wow” worthy elements?

Yes, several elements of this project can be described as “wow-worthy.” The intuitive touchscreens provided by the Crestron UC Flex system delivered an unparalleled user experience by enabling seamless control of all room functionalities from a single interface. This level of integration has been highly praised by Ashurst’s team, as it significantly enhanced efficiency and usability. Additionally, the high-quality audio solutions ensured crystal-clear communication during meetings, further boosting productivity. Another standout feature was the aesthetic integration of all technological components into Ashurst’s office design. The technology was not only functional but also visually aligned with the sleek and professional atmosphere of their workspace.

This combination of innovation and design has set a new benchmark for future projects in the field of audiovisual technology and smart building solutions.