AmpliVox Sound Systems

Hospitals are unique institutions. Far more than just buildings where doctors treat patients, hospitals and other health care facilities are microcosm communities with sectors dedicated to education, business, entertainment and even spirtual functions. In these contexts, hospital spaces frequently become presentation venues for groups of various sizes and purposes. The right presentation equipment, including appropriate lecterns, sound systems, and other presentation tools, provides the foundation for effective communication in any of these settings.

The Lectern, Evolved.

Public speakers have used lecterns for centuries. In years past, an imposing lectern enhanced any speaker's image as a voice of authority, along with providing a place to set down a printed speech and a glass of water. Today, however, the descendants of the traditional lectern deliver a host of options that greatly expand the range of esthetic and practical possibility. No need to settle for one size fits all: with so many choices available, hospital administrators can select specific lecterns that perfectly fit the diverse functions within the institution. In addition, lecterns come in an expansive range of design styles to enhance any decor with a high degree of customization.

Consider these potential settings for lecterns in your facility:

Lecture Halls: In hospitals devoted to teaching along with treatment, a well-chosen lectern is an essential classroom tool. For large auditorium settings, the best lecterns will incorporate multimedia connectivity to give the speaker easy access to video and audio control. Multimedia features do not have to drive style choices. however. High-tech options can be included in a wide range of furniture styles, from traditionally formal to sleekly modern. Choose a lectern that complements the style of the lecture hall while providing comfort and convenience to the speakers who will be using it.

Conference Rooms: Small room presentations frequently require the same level of media support as a lecture hall speech, but the speakers needs to manage different types of equipment to keep the information flowing. Space constraints play a pivotal role in the selection of lecterns for conference rooms. When projectors and other devices are needed, a mobile computer cart/lectern combination is an efficient choice that can easily move from room to room. Many models include lockable cabinets, so they can double as secure device storage units. 

Tabletop lecterns also play a versatile role, serving the functions of space efficiency and mobility. Some tabletop units include full-featured sound systems for great presentation delivery in a portable package. For occasional use, some tabletop lecterns can even be folded, collapsed and stored flat.

Concierge/Valet Stands: An attractive, weatherproof lectern provides a secure point of contact for arriving patients and guests. Highly durable lecterns in polyethylene are available in a limitless range of colors, combining an attractive appearance with great practicality. Lockable storage, easy mobility, and customized logos are all valuable assets to consider for a concierge desk or valet stand.

Chapels: An appealing lectern enhances the quiet dignity of your facility's sanctuary while providing presentation support for services. As a focal point of the chapel, the lectern should reflect the overall decor of the space. Elegant lecterns are available in many varied materials, from solid wood to crystal-clear acrylic. If the chapel activities require sound amplification, look for lecterns with discreet built-in speakers or with connectivity to established house systems. 

Portable Sound Systems: Taking Communication Anywhere

A simple, portable sound system will be put into service on a regular basis all over your facility. These units can support formal presentations in lecture halls, enhance audience interaction at social events, and deliver vital instructions to large groups of people during emergencies. Operating on battery power, they can be used indoors and out and carried easily from place to place. As with lecterns, a variety of products are available to serve specific functions, including:

Personal PA Systems: Wireless technology makes it easy to set up personal public address systems. Amplifiers can be positioned anywhere in the presentation space while the speaker stands at a lectern or walks around the room using a cordless handheld, lapel, or headset mic. Top quality choices offer a 16-channel frequency selection to reduce interference and ensure crystal clear sound.

Megaphones and Hailers: For outdoor or emergency use, megaphones and hailers deliver powerful sound amplification in a simple package. The distinctive bullhorn style of these units can project sound as far as a half-mile. The most versatile systems include extra attention-grabbing features, such as sirens and signal lights, to maximize effectiveness in crowds. For maximum emergency preparedness, a radio hailer system allows response teams to deliver instructions to groups of people from a remote base up to a mile away.

Small Investment, Big Impact

For a small expenditure compared to the medical equipment needed for your hospital, the products described here deliver an outstanding return on investment. Lecterns and sound systems have the potential to be used by your staff for years to come in areas all over your facility. Take the time to explore the many options available, or contact a dealer specializing in sound and presentation equipment to discuss your institution's needs. Presentation clarity and effectiveness are always the key to a winning strategy. The right selections will deliver a long-term payoff, improving the appearance, effectiveness, and safety of your facility every day.

About the author: Don Roth is the CEO of AmpliVox Sound Systems, a designer, manufacturer, and distributor of top-quality sound systems, lecterns, and other presentation equipment based in Northbrook, Illinois. To learn more about the variety of AmpliVox products available for hospital and health care settings, visit www.ampli.com.