With Crestron‘s recent launch of Pyng at the CEDIA Expo, we are looking at an important, continuing conversation about the value of ease of setup, implementation, field service, and user configuration for all AV systems.
Pyng is a tablet-based configuration application that provides a means to set up, customize, and create an operational automation system without the need for programming. Truth be told, Pyng is a great entry point for Crestron to offer its high end, customizable, and sophisticated products in a manner that is easier and more affordable for the average installer and the average consumer.
What lessons learned from Pyng technology apply to the commercial market?
Although targeted toward the residential market, the merits that Pyng provides should also be applied to commercial systems. The benefits of Pyng extend beyond the much-touted wow factor, the convenience, and the economical selling points. What is of the most significance is the concept that systems can provide a means for field configuration and user preference adjustments without programming changes. This concept applies to all markets and to all system types.
How can the Pyng-effect solve problems for integrators and technology managers?
One of the biggest concerns and a popular complaint voiced by integrators and technology managers who install custom programmed systems is the difficulty and cost of making changes after a system is complete.
Aside from potential intellectual property ownership issues and the availability of the latest source code, having the time, expertise, or budget to pay for small “user preference” changes like relabeling text, rearranging buttons, adjusting functionality or swapping out a like device can present a significant challenge and an unnecessary inconvenience for clients.
Related: AVNation Takes In-Depth Tour of Crestron Booth at InfoComm 2014
Whether it’s specified in a bid, incorporated as part of the relationship, or assumed as a good business practice, accommodations for “user preference” changes have a place in most projects. After a project is installed and working, we allot time to allow the user to work with the system and to provide one list of user preference requests that are reviewed and addressed within reason.
In scenarios like this, the Pyng-effect can help to minimize the time and effort associated with many typical user preference changes. Further, functionality can be provided in a simple manner for anyone qualified to make adjustments to the system without the need for a programmer’s involvement.
