Scala helps Royal Institute of British Architects enhance HQ with digital signage

Commenting on the installation, a representative from the RIBA said, "The Royal Institute of British Architects hosts a number of different architectural exhibitions and corporate events in its art deco headquarters in London. The installation of digital media has created a practical and stylish way of informing visitors how best to enjoy the building. We are delighted with the outcome."

Upon entry, visitors and members are welcomed by a 103-inch Panasonic plasma screen that is used to deliver high-impact, quality content about RIBA's cultural activities, exhibitions, restaurants, conferences and events. This screen is built into an alcove on the main staircase and consequently becomes a seamless part of the overall design of the main lobby.

The lobby also contains a number of portrait-oriented 42-inch plasma screens inside custom bezels that provide visitors with relevant meeting and conference timetables. RIBA's own meeting organizer software is integrated into the network to facilitate the automatic delivery of event and meeting-room agendas and other content into pre-designed templates for display on-screen.

"We're very pleased with the outcome of this project, especially the integration of screens into the built environment. So often screen media is added on as an afterthought or not integrated into the fabric of a building. If anyone wishes to see how digital media can be seamlessly integrated into a building, I'd like to invite them to the RIBA," said Peter Critchley, managing director of Beaver Solutions.

Beaver Solutions specified that RIBA's network should use Scala to control the content and asset-management functions that influence the quality and timeliness of RIBA's visual presentation. This content is created within the Scala suite through the use of Scala Designer prior to it being scheduled for play-out on-screen. The team at RIBA also has been trained to use Scala Designer, providing the opportunity to create content with a template environment and (working with Beaver) to schedule for play-out within a matter of hours. Beaver also managed the installation and runs RIBA's network operations.

"This work is an excellent example of combining form and function harmoniously. Visitors to the RIBA see high-quality content within the design of the building itself, rather than an addition to, and that fact alone makes it a very attractive and engaging proposition," said Oscar Elizaga, vice president for EMEA at Scala. "Now that the RIBA team can use Scala to provide their own information quickly to the screens, visitors can be assured they have the best and latest information to help them maximize their enjoyment of their visit."