Money Transfer: Why has this taken so long?

In days gone by, transferring money from one place to another – especially internationally – was costly, arduous and time-consuming. Those days are long gone. Especially in countries where self-service kiosks, powered by Genkiosk the kiosk software, are installed. And business is booming, particularly in regions like the Middle East with a high proportion of migrant workers sending money home.

Sheffield, UK (PRWEB) - Fill the car with fuel. Pop in to pay the bill. Grab a drink. All done? Not yet. Because in more and more locations, self-service kiosks are popping up. Now you can do so much more, whenever you want.

And money transfer – remittances – is one example of self-service that is booming.

Genkiosk is the most powerful kiosk management solution, so the makers – GWD Media – have the data to assess what is happening around the world, as James Oladujoye their CEO explains: “Money transfer kiosks have taken us a bit by surprise – maybe because I live in Europe. But in certain parts of the world there is a huge market. People want to send money home. Internationally, yes – especially where you have a migrant workforce like the Middle East. But domestically too, say in a country like the Philippines where people move to the cities but maintain their links with their roots.”

These economic factors have led to an increase of business – and an extension of focus – for Genkiosk. The kiosk software that started with Internet access has now expanded to include:

•     Paying bills
•     Printing photos
•     Accessing the Internet or information
•     Transferring money
•     Browsing and shopping
  

And every country has its own specific needs: self-service is just a way of making things quicker and easier.

Self-service kiosks help people get online, stay in touch and do business – especially in places where domestic broadband access is limited.

GWD Media, the international supplier of Genkiosk, the kiosk management software, has announced a new drive into regions where these services offer most value. The initiative follows independent research now released as a white paper available for download. This drive supplements Genkiosk services like bill payment, retail, and photo - which match the booming requirements of populations looking for easy, flexible facilities, without the need for bank accounts or credit cards.

Genkiosk has seen self-service kiosks growing hugely in popularity over the last few years. Not everywhere, but in certain parts of the world, wherever the commercial proposition makes sense for customers and end-users.

The kiosks are simple and fast to use. The availability is high – up to 24 hours a day – and they often remove the need for customers to stand in line or wait for human assistance.
The result for end users: they get what they want - quick and easy.
Long established in North America and Europe, high growth areas in recent years have included the Middle East and the Pacific Rim. Examples include the UAE and the Island of Fiji, where Genkiosk is already well established

Genkiosk was first developed in Europe, and has now gone global. Location is no longer critical to taking full control of self-service estates, as James Oladujoye, CEO of GWD Media explains: “Going into the Cloud – where Genkiosk computer services are delivered remotely regardless of global region – has transformed our business. Customers everywhere deserve– and demand – the very best. Nowadays, why should it matter which part of the world you are in, as far as software services are concerned? Our new clients everywhere will enjoy the latest and the best – just like our existing customers in Dubai, London, Seattle or wherever.”

Genkiosk, from GWD Media was first developed to run and manage pay-as-you-go Internet kiosks. It has now grown to cover the full range of self-service applications.
After launching in Europe, it expanded first to the Americas, then the Middle East and beyond, going global via multinational customers and now with direct clients as far afield as Fiji in the South Pacific.

Genkiosk is delivered via the Cloud, maximizing service and availability in every region of the world.

VeoVend, the sister of Genkiosk, provides the same monitoring and management services for more traditional vending (snacks, drinks, beverages, retail.) A hardware plug-in, with mobile phone SIM, gives online access to even the most basic vending machine.

GWD Media is headquartered in Sheffield, UK, and operates worldwide.

Paul Davis recognized for contributions to Coinstar's continued growth and innovation. 

BELLEVUE, Wash., /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ -- Coinstar, Inc. today announced that Chief Executive Officer Paul Davis has been ranked fourth by Fortune magazine on its Fortune 500 List: Technology Visionaries. Davis is recognized among an esteemed group of Fortune 500 business leaders for his success in expanding the Redbox self-service movie and video game rental business from an innovative young company, to what is today an industry-disrupter and leader in movie rentals.

"On behalf of Coinstar and the Redbox leadership, I am extremely honored to be included on Fortune's list among such respected and admired visionaries," said Paul Davis, CEO of Coinstar, Inc. "I share this honor with the entire company and its unwavering commitment to continued growth and innovation. As we reimagine the retail experience, we will continue to innovate within our core businesses and develop new automated retail concepts that better meet the changing needs of consumers and society."

According to the article recently published by Fortune magazine, Davis helped steward Redbox's growth through the pending purchase of NCR Corp.'s DVD rental kiosks and the announcement of a new streaming service partnership with Verizon. Redbox's revenue for the first quarter of 2012 was $502.9 million, a 38.8 percent increase compared with the first quarter of 2011.

About Fortune 500 List:

Technology VisionariesThe top ten Technology Visionaries include the most visionary leaders on this year's Fortune 500 list. The ranking of these leaders can be viewed at http://money.cnn.com/galleries/2012/fortune/1204/gallery.500-tech-visionaries.fortune/index.html .

About Coinstar, Inc.

Coinstar, Inc. is a leading provider of automated retail solutions offering convenient services that make life easier for consumers and drive incremental traffic and revenue for retailers. The company's core automated retail businesses include the well-known Redbox® self-service movie and video game rental and Coinstar® self-service coin-counting brands. The company has approximately 36,800 DVD kiosks and 20,200 coin-counting kiosks in supermarkets, drug stores, mass merchants, financial institutions, convenience stores, and restaurants. For more information, visit http://www.coinstarinc.com/ .

Lausanne, Switzerland, 16 May 2012: A newspaper publisher from Bayreuth implemented a city-wide digital signage network based on the HMP Hyper Media Player of the Swiss digital signage manufacturer SpinetiX.

With more than 35,000 customers in the region, the leading newspaper publisher in Bayreuth “Nordbayerischer Kurier” was looking for a way to display content within an urban network in the form of digital signage. Editorials, news articles and videos as well as external information sources (f.ex. weather data) should be displayed and presented in an appealing manner in premises of local businesses and in shop windows.

Assigned with the implementation of the project, the company TMT GmbH & Co. KG quickly came to choose the HMP100 player of SpinetiX. Beside the ease of installation and the small size of the HMP it was its unique high-performance playback of various media formats from different sources which made the difference. Also, the lifetime product warranty and the very low power consumption made that the Swiss specialist was the only choice.

In the city-heart of Bayreuth and at well-attended venues in the region around 30 installations of this innovative signage solution are already in use, with plans to increase their number according to the newspaper publisher. Using the TMT Sigma application (Signage Manager) the newspaper publisher is able to monitor all installations and to organize the screens remotely. Displayed are promotional advertisements, videos and in particular dynamic content which are supplied from various sources (videos, news, data feeds, tourist information, theater events and weather data).

Michael Rümmele, Managing Director of the “Nordbayerischer Kurier”: "Our signage network has fully met our expectations. Despite the complex technical requirements, the Sigma TMT software allows our employees to quickly and easily manage all content."

Serge Konter, Marketing Manager of SpinetiX adds: "The signage solution from TMT impresses by its ease of use and its rich functionality. With our German Distribution Partner “Weyel Distribution”, we are looking forward to further challenges of this kind."

About SpinetiX

SpinetiX SA is an award-winning Swiss hardware manufacturer of professional digital signage hardware devices. Find more information about SpinetiX products at www.spinetix.com.
SpinetiX, the SpinetiX logo, and HMP Hyper Media Player are trademarks of SpinetiX S.A. Other company and product names and logos may be trademarks of their respective owners.

NCR Express Key kiosk to let guests who check in online or via mobile device bypass registration to obtain room key

DULUTH, Ga.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--NCR Corporation today launched NCR Express Key a hotel check-in kiosk that lets guests who have checked in online or via a mobile collect their room key without queuing at reception, meeting consumers’ needs for the same convenience and speed they get with airline and car rental check-in.
   
Research conducted by Opinion Research Corporation (ORC) on behalf of NCR found that 76% of people said being able to check-in ahead of time would minimize potential frustration, and 41% indicated they would be more likely to select a hotel that offers the convenience of advanced check-in via web or mobile device over one that does not.

NCR Express Key, part of an advanced hotel check-in solution portfolio that optimizes the mobile experience, allows guests who have checked in via online or mobile channels to bypass the front desk and obtain room keys by scanning a printed or mobile-delivered confirmation barcodes, NFC enabled mobile devices or mobile acoustic keys. The low-profile kiosk can be placed on counters or table tops throughout a hotel, in elevator lobbies and other convenient locations, giving more options to guests who have lost their keys, left keys in their rooms or arrive at their rooms to find that keys will not work.

Despite widespread adoption of mobile in other areas of travel, few hotels offer the convenience that consumers say they want. Survey results found that while 65% of respondents have booked a hotel room either online or via mobile device, only 20% have actually checked in using either of those methods. Yet if it were available, 57% of those surveyed indicated they would check in online or via mobile.

“Travelers have come to expect mobile convenience throughout their journey, and many hotels are beginning to offer the ability to book a reservation and check in on-the-go,” said Tyler Craig, vice president and general manager, NCR Travel. “But what is the point of providing this capability if guests are forced to queue for their keys upon arrival? NCR Express Key completes the advanced check-in experience by giving guests control over the entire process and eliminating the wait.”

Results from the ORC survey found that 25% of respondents have waited 30 minutes or longer to check in. Compounding that frustration, more than half (53%) said they had been issued a key that didn’t work and had to trek all the way back to the front desk to get a new one.

NCR Express Key enables hotel operators to provide better service for all guests by freeing up staff time and reducing queues for those who prefer personal service, and eliminating any need to stop at the front desk for those who do not. Currently in pilot with a leading hotel chain, the solution is now available in North America and will be launched in Europe later this year.

About the research

This online survey of 1,013 U.S. consumers was conducted in January of 2012 by ORC International, a leading global market research firm.

About NCR Corporation

NCR Corporation (NYSE: NCR) is a global technology company leading how the world connects, interacts and transacts with business. NCR’s assisted- and self-service solutions and comprehensive support services address the needs of retail, financial, travel, hospitality, entertainment, gaming, public sector, telecom carrier and equipment organizations in more than 100 countries. NCR (www.ncr.com) is headquartered in Duluth, Georgia.

New York, ComQi, the global multi-channel message management company, today announced the new release of its content management software - EnGage R7. This release continues to push the capabilities of its market leading cloud based digital signage CMS solution that has been used by hundreds of customers around the world.

This release provides a number of unique features including:

•     Video On Demand (VOD) capability which enables users to select from stored content on the player using their mobile phones.  With this new feature, ComQi is offering a customized solution to the Corporate Communications market by enabling employee education and staff training on demand.
•     Multi-language user interfaces which enable users to work in their native language –Spanish, German or French. This builds upon EnGage’s existing Unicode capability which supports content in any language. With this new feature, ComQi is accessible on a global level and solidifies its position as the market leading CMS on a global level.
•     New geospatial interface has been added to automatically geocode locations and present their locations on online maps.  This capability can track location from city level all to aisle level within a store which enables tracking and impact measuring.
•     Extended support for external video feed integration with a TV Tuner widget to tune ATSC over-the-air and clear QAM digital TV signals.
  

Max Stevens-Guille, ComQi’s CTO, says: “With our quarterly EnGage release, we make sure that our customers benefit from cutting edge technologies as soon as they are available in the market.  As such, EnGage’s new VOD capability fits ComQi’s overall strategy to integrate mobile phones with digital signage by allowing users to select specific content from their mobile phone for playback on the screen. This unique feature can be very useful for corporate training and retail applications to allow users to find out multi-product information”.

For more Information on EnGage, click here to download the “EnGage as a Platform” White Paper 

About ComQi

ComQi is a global leader providing a powerful multi-channel message management platform that controls a network’s content and infrastructure, closing the loop between digital signage, mobile, web and social media within a venue. ComQi won numerous awards including the AV Technology Award for the Best Digital Signage Product in 2011. It has been voted as the number one global digital signage provider for three years in a row by DailyDOOH and a Tier One player by Frost & Sullivan for the second year in a row.

Created through the merger of Minicom Digital Signage and EnQii, ComQi’s mission is to deliver an end-to-end solution that is tailored to engage consumers by optimizing communications and marketing strategies that provide the best ROI. By putting the consumer at the center of the experience, ComQi enables Connected Experiences through a single platform that offers media distribution, network and content management, interactive experiences and impact measurement. ComQi offers all these solutions directly or by partnering with systems integrators, distributors and marketing agencies. ComQi’s hundreds of customers include leading brands around the world, such as Care Media, Compass Group and Six Flags (in the US), McDonald's and The Premier League (in the UK), CinemaxX (in Germany), Toys ‘R’ Us (in China)  and Carrefour and Credit Lyonnais (in France). With over 12 years of expertise and an installed base of more than 400,000 displays worldwide, ComQi is a global company headquartered in New York with offices in Jerusalem, Toronto, London, Zurich, Paris, Hong Kong Shanghai and a representative office in India.

‘s-Hertogenbosch, The Netherlands - AOpen Inc. selects Sales & Marketing Director to succeed James Hua at its European headquarters in the Netherlands.

Former General Manager at AOpen Europe, James Hua, ends his time at the European headquarters after a period of eleven years. He has been very successful transforming AOpen from a components business to a solution oriented approach, setting his footprint in the digital signage industry.

James will continue his work for the solutions business from Taiwan headquarters and in his new role he will become Head of Solution and Channel Integration to provide various digitalized solutions for different market applications and to coordinate the global channel approach to create synergy.

Jack Chou has been with AOpen for ten years and has been the right hand of James for seven years. As an accomplished Sales & Marketing Director he has been appointed to lead the European team. Jack Chou commented: “I am honored to receive this new opportunity to further build on the current AOpen platform. We are looking at a bright future for AOpen and I am happy to have such a great team and channel to support me to accomplish this.”
Jack is ready to take AOpen into a new direction where he will use his expertise within the application computing market to bring the business approach to another level with a strong focus on the channel go-to-market strategy on a sales and marketing level.

About AOpen

AOpen, Inc. has more than 15 years of IT hardware manufacturing experience along with keen insights into IT industry trends that help drive the continuous development of high-end IT solutions. As the leading manufacturer of reliable, powerful and green hardware solutions world-wide, combined with the unique small form factor of the specially designed media player called AOpen Digital Engine, AOpen is able to provide an outstanding platform for 24/7 operability in applied computing. The range of players, from low-end to high-end with fan or fanless, are designed for excellence:  from basic bare systems to state-of-the-art multimedia solutions built to fit customers’ needs. The WarmTouch series complements the AOpen product line with small and extremely sleek displays with or without touch. With in-depth market knowledge AOpen can offer advice for complete digital signage platform solutions. AOpen cooperates with its global value added channel network to go to market.

For more information visit www.aopen.com

In 2 short years tablets have begun to fundamentally shift personal computing. We consume more, share more and are always connected. However, beyond personal computing, tablets are also giving rise to entirely new use cases as single-purpose devices. Walk in to a local ice cream shop and the traditional cash register will have been replaced by a shiny new iPad point-of-sale, complete with a cash drawer, credit card reader and a printer. Soon you will be able to buy products in retail stores at an iPad or Android kiosk integrated with a credit card reader. We have already seen shoe retailers replace paper signage with iPads, creating a unique and highly energetic experience for customers. iPads are a the most cost effective way to create beautiful, interactive experiences for your customers.

But it takes more than just mounting an iPad on the wall to create these compelling experiences. Natively these devices have been designed for personal use, so it takes a more work for non-personal uses like these. Of all the projects that we have seen, the biggest failure point has been the lack of remote management for the app and the iPad (iPod Touch, iPhone or Android device).

After talking to dozens of companies trying to use iPads as kiosks, digital signage, POS and more, the idea for our +MDM platform was born. We want to give users remote management and control over both the apps and devices running those apps.For those on iPads, that means locking the home button, pushing wifi settings, removing iTunes, Safari, YouTube and more. For apps, +MDM enables the remote management for app settings from any browser. No longer is it necessary to have someone standing at the device to change the way it runs. Whether you have 1 device or 10,000 +MDM lets you manage all of them from a single location.

Mobile Device Management (MDM) is at the core of what we do, but isn’t who we are. MDM isn’t new, of course. Traditionally employed by enterprises, MDM delivered the most efficient and secure way to protect sensitive corporate data and apps. But these new single-purpose use cases don’t fit the mold for traditional MDM. Because a user/owner has been removed from the equation, these non-personal use cases requires greater centralized control over how the device operates. We are focused on enabling solutions for tablets as single-purpose devices, whether that be as a kiosk, digital signage, point-of-sale….whatever your solution might be.

+MDM enables these new use cases through a combination of a web-based management console, webhooks and REST APIs. For those solution providers that already have a web-based console for their solution, our device management features can be easily included in your own console. For those who have a killer app, but no central management for the app, we can help you with a role-based console that can reflect and manage all the settings in your app.

This is a very exciting space, in just a few months time we have worked with customers putting android tablets into taxis, iPads as point-of-sale, conference room signage, kiosks for hotel concierges and payment terminals at retail stores. We will be highlighting many of these use cases as we continue to demonstrate the many ways tablets can be used beyond personal computing devices.

If you are using tablets in new, innovative ways and need to lock them down or manage them remotely, tell us about it.

Content provided by MokiMobility

HyperStream™ Live — Internet Media Services

Haivision's HyperStream™ Live is a simplified and automated service that brings the power of cloud transcoding and CDN connectivity to content producers, so that they can deliver a much better visual experience to every Internet viewer. Cloud transcoding allows streamers to maximize uplink bandwidth by sending a single high-quality stream from the source to the cloud, and then uses the cloud's abundant computing power and network capacity to create the various bit rates necessary for adaptive streaming. A user-managed, pay-per-use software as a service (SaaS), HyperStream Live simplifies and automates transcoding in the cloud (Amazon EC2™) and global delivery over a CDN (Akamai). HyperStream Live is a single portal for any global streaming need.

Viper™ KB Portable Internet Encoder and Viper MAX Standalone Recorder

Haivision introduces the Viper™ KB, a compact, portable appliance that simplifies Internet streaming. With a very simple touch-screen interface, users can quickly stream full HD at multiple bit rates for Dynamic Flash® and Adaptive HTTP Live Streaming (HLS) networks. In addition, Haivision will showcase Viper MAX, a stand-alone, dual-channel performance-streaming, recording, VOD, and publishing appliance for the conference room, classroom, and medical procedure room.

Furnace™ IP Video System — InStream™ Mobile

Bridging the enterprise and the Internet, Haivision's Furnace™ IP video distribution system — renowned for delivering real-time broadcast video securely throughout facilities and across campuses — now directly supports any device, anywhere. InStream™ Mobile enables authenticated viewers to access live Furnace video channels on the go using tablets and mobile devices. The Furnace administrative suite can deliver any live Furnace channel to Dynamic Flash® and Adaptive HTTP Live Streaming (HLS) networks and CDN targets. The InStream Mobile app will be available in the Apple® iTunes® App StoreSM in August 2012.

CoolSign 5.0™ Digital Signage System

Haivision is previewing CoolSign™ 5.0, bringing together scalability, performance, Internet video streaming, and a new Web interface. With quantum scalability and performance improvements for addressing broad networks of thousands of digital signs, CoolSign demonstrates how it incorporates a simplified Web interface to upload, manage, and distribute content. The new workflows will equally enable store owners and corporate administrators to customize the local media experience easily. Haivision will also launch CoolSign 4.6, which fully supports high-quality H.264 transport streams, such as those available from Haivision's Furnace™ IP video system, and Internet-based RTMP streams, such as those available from Haivision KulaByte™ and HyperStream™ Internet streaming platforms, enabling end-to-end media management with Haivision.

Company Overview

Haivision delivers advanced technology for streaming, recording, managing, and distributing secure IP video and interactive media within the enterprise, education, medical/healthcare, and federal/military markets. Haivision is a private company based in Montreal and Chicago, with technical excellence centers in Beaverton, Ore.; Austin, Texas; and Hamburg, Germany. With a global sales and support organization, Haivision distributes its products through value-added resellers, system integrators, distributors, and OEMs worldwide. More information is available at www.haivision.com.

All trademarks appearing herein are the property of their respective owners.

New LED Monitor Bundles Extreme Performance and Style 

WALNUT, CA, (MARKETWIRE via COMTEX) -- ViewSonic Corp., a leading global provider of computing, consumer electronics and communications solutions, today announced its latest LED backlit monitor solution -- the VX2460h-LED -- offering the thinnest profile available for its size and class category.

Ideal for consumers, gamers, enthusiasts and discerning buyers alike, the VX2460h-LED is a sleek and stylish 24" (23.6" Vis.) ultra-slim widescreen display that pairs a 1/4" ultra-slim thickness with advanced imaging technologies to reduce eye fatigue after extended viewing.

With a Full HD 1080p resolution, 2ms video response time provided by ClearMotiv(R) II imaging technology and ultra-high 40,000,000 : 1 dynamic contrast ratio, the VX2460h-LED delivers superior pixel performance. Paired with dual HDMI inputs for multiple media device connections, Windows(R) 7 certification and touch sensitive keys for convenient on-screen display setting adjustments, the VX2460h-LED delivers stunning visual performance. Additionally, this mercury-free, Energy Star(R) 5.1 certified display is equipped with ViewSonic's ECO-mode feature which extends the lifetime of the display, while delivering energy savings of up to 40% when compared to a regular 24" monitor.

"With nearly 25 years of expertise, we are continually pushing ourselves to achieve the next level of excellence in our displays. At just a 1/4-inch, the VX2460h-LED has one of the world's thinnest profile designs. Partnered with a fast response time and high contrast ratio, this truly is a state-of-the-art machine for any consumer demanding both world class performance and style," commented Erik Willey, LCD monitor and PC product marketing director at ViewSonic.

The VX2460h-LED comes standard with a 3-year warranty, and the industry's best pixel performance policy. The VX2460h-LED will be available in North America in late May for an ESP of $199. For further information, visit ViewSonic.com or follow ViewSonic on the Company blog, Facebook, YouTube and Twitter.

About ViewSonic

ViewSonic(R) Corporation, headquartered in Walnut, California, is a leading global provider of computing, consumer electronics, and communications solutions. Founded in 1987, ViewSonic's mission is to be the preferred global brand of visual solutions as we continue to focus on display-centric product offerings including LED monitors, tablets, projectors, digital signage displays, smartphones, and cloud computing solutions. ViewSonic continues to pioneer in visual technology innovation to build a connected and ever-reaching digital future. For further information, please visit ViewSonic.com.

ViewSonic's Finch Club offers resellers an opportunity to benefit from specialized product training and discounts. To sign up, please visit FinchClub.com.

Trademark footnote: All corporate names and trademarks are the property of their respective companies

Atlanta, GA: – Manufacturing Resources International (MRI) has introduced the first full-size transparent (see-thru) Digital LCD Door for Convenience and Grocery stores. This “high-performance” Digital LCD Display replaces the entire conventional door glass with a transparent display assembly that allows for normal customer viewing of the product through the glass, but with the ability to run full-motion videos / advertisements / promotions in a “see-through” manner.

This innovative product has been co-developed by MRI (digital display manufacturer) and Commercial Refrigerator Door Company (cooler door manufacturer) and is being marketed under the ThruVu™ product name by both companies.

According to Peter Kaszycki, VP of Business Development for MRI, “By introducing this new, eye-catching product, advertisers within C-Stores now have a creative way to advertise and promote their products at the all important “point of purchase” stage, just as the customer is making their final beverage or product selection from the cooler. In addition, it is real estate that already exists in the crowded C-Store space but is not being effective utilized.”

The ThruVu™ Cooler Display System is comprised of (3) major components: 1) the transparent LCD; 2) the LED lighting system and 3) the BoldVu® Video Server. What is unique is the ability of MRI to “cut” the native LCD screen down to the correct size to fit into a standard cooler door assembly. MRI has a license agreement with Tannas Electronic Displays (TED) to customize the size of the LCD for the appropriate door size. The first ThruVu™ Cooler Door is based on cutting a standard 72" LCD down to a custom 67" size. MRI is only one of five companies in the world with this license agreement and in-house capability.

Advertisers now have the ability to run full-HD content / videos on a single door or on all the doors within the C-Store. This allows for unique advertising opportunities by having advertisements / promotions sequence across all the Digital doors in the store or have different ads / promotions running on select doors.

About MRI

MRI is an Atlanta based designer and manufacturer of Digital LCD Displays (22" – 72"), Digital Menu Boards, Pump-Top Displays, and Self-Ordering Kiosks. The BoldVu® product line encompasses both indoor and outdoor configurations and includes unique features such as BrightVu™ (2000 nit brightness), SureVu™ (image verification), CoolVu™ (for operation in direct sunlight combined with ambient temperatures up to 50°C or 122°F), and SAM™ (service access modules) to provide a low cost of ownership with optimum functionality. MRI has an installed base of 9300+ units and offers both standard and custom hardware/technology designs to meet the specific application requirements.

About Styleline

Commercial Refrigerator Door Company was established in 1975 with a single idea in mind: To offer a better product at a competitive price. The continued success of STYLELINE products is proof we had the right idea, and Commercial Refrigerator Door Company continues to be the premier glass display door manufacturer in the industry.

We revolutionized the glass display door industry by offering features that were never before available. Lifetime anodized finishes, stainless steel trim and easy-to-clean coved corners are exclusive to STYLELINE products.

Osaka, (JCN Newswire via COMTEX) -- Panasonic Corporation announced today it will start shipment of its 65-inch "Interactive Plasma Display" (TH-65PB1), incorporated with electronic pen functions, in Japan, the U.S., and Europe at the end of June, followed by other parts of the globe for the use of professionals. Panasonic also plans to commercialize an 85-inch model, the size of a standard whiteboard, and the world's largest(1) 103-inch model by the end of this year. The TH-65PB1 and an 85-inch prototype will be exhibited at the Educational IT Solutions EXPO(2) to be held from May 16 in Tokyo.

The Interactive Plasma Display offers excellent visibility and operability, capitalizing on the full extent of the advantages of self-emitting plasma panel displays, including a large screen, rich color expression, wide viewing angle, and high-speed response. The TH-65PB1 is suitable not only for interactive display applications but also for use as a meeting room monitor.

Further drawing on the PDP's self-emitting characteristics, Panasonic has developed a new electronic pen system that allows high-speed drawing and smooth and highly accurate writing. Up to four pens(3) can be used simultaneously.

The TH-65B1 can be installed vertically or horizontally. When installed vertically, it can display a whole page of digital textbooks on the screen at once. Other possible applications include dividing the screen into two areas, with the upper section showing images and the lower section used as an electronic whiteboard. The new interactive plasma display, supporting wireless connections(4), can also be used as a presentation monitor for meetings or lectures to display electronic data stored in information terminals such as personal computers without the need for cables.

Panasonic will promote this product as an interactive display that helps deliver effective and innovative presentations in a wide variety of scenes, such as business negotiations or meetings as well as classrooms.

Projector-based electronic whiteboards have been mainstream in the interactive whiteboard market. However, the demand for direct-view displays that have excellent display performance and installation flexibility has been rising rapidly worldwide, mainly in the corporate and educational markets. The global demand for such products is expected to be approximately 1.5 million units in the fiscal year to March 2013 and about 3.5 million units in the year to March 2016(5). Panasonic will meet the diverse range of demand in the global market by developing new products that utilize the characteristics of large-screen PDP devices.

1. Interactivity

(1) High-speed drawing/simultaneous multiple drawing

Panasonic has developed the electronic pen system that makes use of PDP's high-speed light-emission from pixels themselves. A special drive system is incorporated into the PDP. This drive system detects and displays the pen position at 60 times per second with respect to each pixel in full HD resolution (1,920 x 1,080: 2.07 million pixels). As a result, the location of the pen tip coincides with the drawing point, which enables smooth and natural writing, and fine lines and characters can be displayed clearly. The system recognizes up to four electronic pens(3) individually that allow lines, pictures, or characters to be written in different colors and thicknesses. As the system detects locations only touched by electronic pens on the panel, users can write freely without worrying about their clothing touching the panel.

(2) User-friendly electronic pen and multifunction drawing software

The newly-developed electronic pens are designed with weight balance for easy gripping and feature multifunction buttons on it. The buttons allows users to perform basic operations without using the tool bar on the panel, including displaying the drawing menu and mouse operations, so that multiple drawings can be handled smoothly. In addition, the drawing software that includes a variety of drawing and presentation tools will help effective presentations.

2. Large screen and high image quality

The Panasonic Interactive Plasma Display will faithfully reproduce a range of content including movies and still images with high image quality, deliveringhigh contrast, rich gradation and superior color reproducibility that are unique to PDPs. The wide viewing angle allows viewers sitting at an angle to the screen to watch high-quality images equivalent to those seen from directly in front of the screen in meeting rooms or classrooms.

3. Wireless connections(4)

As the new interactive display can be connected wirelessly with PC and other information terminals to show data stored in such devices, it allows for flexible seating layout and enables everyone in the room to participate in the presentation.

(1) Display of moving and still images in multiple PCs

- "Multi Live mode: The information in up to 16 personal computers can be displayed simultaneously. This allows for seeing the data each participant has on hand.

- "Multiple Transmission mode: The information in a personal computer can be transmitted to up to eight displays. This allows for sharing the same information on each display simultaneously during a lecture in a large hall, requiring no complicated wiring.

- After downloading a special application (free) from Apple Inc.'s App Store(6), users can show JPEG, PDF, or web content stored in iOS devices, such as tablets and smartphones, on the large screen.

4. Expandability and convenience with SLOT2.0 function slot

The new interactive display is equipped with the SLOT 2.0 function slot, which is well received by professional display users. The slot offers flexibility in building a system catered to the needs of each customer, allowing to mount HDMI and DVI terminal boards and digital tuner boards (sold separately).

(1) As a flat-panel interactive display as of May 15, 2012, according to Panasonic's study.

(2) The 3rd Educational IT Solutions Expo (EDIX) from May 16 to 18, 2012 at Tokyo Big Sight

(3) Will be supported in September 2012 (until then, the maximum will be three pens)

(4) Panasonic wireless module (ET-WM200), sold separately, is required.

(5) Based on Panasonic's estimate

(6) App Store is a trademark of Apple Inc. registered in the U.S. and other countries.

Symon enhances digital signage services with iTeam’s Service-as-a-Product™ installation offering.

Plano, TX (PRWEB) - Symon Communications, a global leader in the provision of visual communications and digital signage solutions, announced today that the company has signed a partnership agreement with iTeam, Inc., a leading nationwide provider of digital signage and IT installation services. Under Symon’s oversight, iTeam will provide nationwide digital signage installation and support services to Symon’s clients.

“We are very pleased to be working with iTeam to strengthen our nationwide installation services,” says Charles Ansley, Symon’s President and CEO. “iTeam’s innovative installation process, North American reach, and quality control systems will enable Symon to confidently offer its clients large-scale digital signage deployment services in combination with our state-of-the-art content management platform. In addition, iTeam’s productized installation services will allow us to simplify the sometimes complicated solution process with well-defined packaged services with predictable fixed costs. The iPlatform system also provides us with tools to monitor service delivery in the hundreds of installations we perform annually.”

With its unique installation process known as Service-as-a-Product™ (SaaP™), iTeam has rapidly become the industry leader in packaged outsourcing of digital signage installations. SaaP transforms complex installations into a simple process and approach, which includes: 1) productized installation services, 2) processes to anticipate and accommodate site-to-site environmental variations, 3) dedicated iTeam Service Advisors to manage every installation event, 4) a proven nationwide network of high-quality field installers, and 5) unprecedented control provided by iTeam’s iPlatform™ software.

“We are delighted to partner with Symon Communications, a true pioneer with a long, well-respected history in digital signage. Symon’s industry-leading creative design and content management expertise coupled with iTeam’s nationwide installation network will result in a complete visual communications offering for Symon’s clients, whether they’re looking for a solution for one, a dozen or hundreds of locations,” said William Kazman, CEO of iTeam.

About Symon Communications, Inc.

Symon Communications is a leading global provider of award-winning in-venue visual communications solutions. Symon is proud to boast a 32 year history of profitably serving over seventy-five hundred clients, which includes nearly 80 percent of the Fortune 100 and almost 70 percent of the Fortune 500.

Symon’s advantage lies within its operating model, which offers customers a single point of accountability for all visual communication implementations, along with a state-of-the-art, fully-integrated and proven content management system. Symon's value proposition is centered on providing clients with a visual communications solution that will inform, entertain and/or positively influence a viewer’s behavior.

Headquartered in Plano, Texas, Symon’s US offices manage sales and support of clients and prospects located throughout the Americas. Symon’s European subsidiary, Symon Dacon, manages sales and support of clients and prospects throughout the EMEA region. SymonDacon’s headquarters are located in Hemel Hempstead, UK.

About iTeam

iTeam Inc. is a nationwide provider of packaged outsourcing of IT and AV installation services, delivering the best visibility and control, highest quality, and most predictable cost, all because of a unique approach called Service-as-a-Product (SaaP). Leading distributors, direct marketers, OEMs, and solutions providers package SaaP with their technology-based offerings to ensure optimum value and a best-in-class customer experience.

Worldwide Winner for Innovation in Outstanding Design and Function 

CHICAGO,(BUSINESS WIRE) -- NEC Display Solutions of America, a leading provider of commercial LCD display and projector solutions, announced today that its 27" MultiSync(R) EA273WM desktop monitor has won the renowned iF Product Design Award for 2012, which is given to companies that have made outstanding design achievements. This distinguished honor is given each year by an international jury of experts and is one of the world's most esteemed design accolades.

The iF Product Design Award is given to a product based on clearly defined criteria, such as quality of design, quality of workmanship, degree of innovation, environmental sustainability and ergonomics. Standout features of the MultiSync EA273WM earning it the award include low environmental impact, LED backlighting and smart sensing technologies. The monitor was also praised for its 130mm height adjustability and discrete chassis design.

"NEC is honored to earn its second consecutive iF Product Design Award for the MultiSync EA Series," said Kevin Christopherson, Director of Product Marketing for NEC Display Solutions. "The MultiSync EA273WM offers advanced technologies that meet customers' high standards, as well as a sleek design occupying minimal desktop space. Its recognition by the iF Product Design judges validates that objective."

The MultiSync EA273WM has a completely redesigned chassis from its predecessors, which is up to 30% thinner and 25% lighter, while boasting future-proof connectivity such as DisplayPort and HDMI inputs. Its smart sensing technology, including an ambient light sensor and human sensor, which detects user activity in front of the monitor and reduces its power up to 95% with inactivity. The ControlSync(TM) feature allows users to control up to six EA273WM units in a multi-monitor configuration. Upon establishing one unit as the master, users will be able to control many performance attributes of the multi-monitor setup in unison through the single monitor.

The MultiSync EA273WM design was created by Naoto Fukasawa, an internationally-known, award-winning industrial designer. In 2003, Naoto Fukasawa established Naoto Fukasawa Design. While collaborating with representative brands in Italy, Germany, France, Switzerland, Scandinavia and Asian countries for their product developments, he is also consulting both national and international companies. Fukasawa has won many awards internationally and, in 2007, he was accorded the title of Honorable Royal Designer for Industry (Royal Society of Arts). Since 1992, Fukasawa has been designing the MultiSync monitor series for NEC. Last year, his design for the EX231W won the 2011 iF Product Design Award.

In addition to the EA273WM, the MultiSync EA Series includes the 19-inch EA192M, 22-inch EA223WM, 23-inch EA232WMi and 24-inch EA243WM. The MultiSync EA273WM is available at an estimated street price of $499. It ships with a three-year limited parts and labor warranty.

About NEC Display Solutions of America, Inc.

Headquartered in Itasca, Ill., NEC Display Solutions of America, Inc., is a leading designer and provider of innovative desktop LCD monitors, commercial- and professional-grade large-screen LCD displays, a diverse line of multimedia and digital cinema projectors, and integrated display solutions. NEC Display Solutions develops leading-edge visual technology and customer-focused solutions for a wide variety of markets, including enterprise, healthcare, education and digital signage. For additional information about NEC Display Solutions of America monitors, consumers can call (866) NEC-MORE, or visit the website at www.necdisplay.com .

About VUKUNET

VUKUNET, from NEC Display Solutions of America, is the engine that powers the digital out-of-home advertising business. VUKUNET is the only universal ad serving platform that drives ads to any digital out-of-home network, regardless of content management software. VUKUNET makes the buying, flighting and reporting of digital out-of-home ad campaigns easy. For additional information about VUKUNET, visit www.vukunet.com or call (877) 805-VUKU.

CINCINNATI, (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Fifth Third Bank has teamed with NCR Corporation and Phoenix Interactive, to become the first superregional bank in the country to offer ATM mixed-media deposit functionality to its customers.

Using NCR's single slot ATMs and Phoenix' Intelligent Deposit software, Fifth Third Bank can now offer its customers the opportunity to mix up to 50 combined checks and bills in a single, envelope-free ATM deposit, and do so twice as fast as traditional ATM deposits that require checks or bills to be inserted one-at-a-time. The Bank is currently piloting the advanced-technology ATM at its Fountain Square headquarters in downtown Cincinnati with plans to begin deploying the functionality across its footprint by the end of the year.

"Fifth Third Bank invented the shared ATM network with the development of Jeanie(R) and we continue to use innovation to bring the latest and best technology to our customers," said Kevin T. Kabat, president and chief executive officer of Fifth Third Bancorp. "With the help of NCR and Phoenix, we can offer our customers the ability to make mixed-media deposits simpler and faster, thereby improving the overall customer experience."

NCR's Scalable Deposit Module (SDM) technology is the only technology on the market that allows consumers to deposit both cash and checks simultaneously in any orientation through a single slot, making the consumer deposit experience twice as fast as other ATMs.

"Across the banking industry, consumers are embracing envelope-free deposit, with ATM deposits at many financial institutions up 100 percent. That's why NCR made our SDM technology -- to take a great customer experience and make it even faster and easier," said Michael O'Laughlin, senior vice president, NCR Financial Services. "Fifth Third's customers will soon be able to experience the unique simplicity of NCR's single-slot deposit ATMs. Consumers want to bank when and where it is convenient, and NCR SelfServ(TM) makes banking a 24/7 proposition for them."

"We take great pride in the fact that Fifth Third Bank chose Phoenix as their self- service software partner over five years ago, and that together we continue to build industry-leading strategies," commented Kyle MacDonald, CEO of Phoenix Interactive. "Fifth Third Bank shares our focus on creating the best customer experience as we change the way customers use the self-service channel."

Fifth Third Bank customers are the first to benefit from the mixed media deposit features of Phoenix's VISTAatm(TM) Intelligent Deposit software solutions. Amounts are recognized and summarized on the screen. Customers have the option to view thumbnail images of all checks, zoom in or pan an individual check, and even flip it over to see the back.

Fifth Third Bancorp is a diversified financial services company headquartered in Cincinnati, Ohio. The Company has $117 billion in assets and operates 15 affiliates with 1,318 full-service Banking Centers, including 105 Bank Mart(R) locations open seven days a week inside select grocery stores and 2,394 ATMs in Ohio, Kentucky, Indiana, Michigan, Illinois, Florida, Tennessee, West Virginia, Pennsylvania, Missouri, Georgia and North Carolina. Fifth Third operates four main businesses: Commercial Banking, Branch Banking, Consumer Lending, and Investment Advisors. Fifth Third also has a 39% interest in Vantiv Holding, LLC, formerly Fifth Third Processing Solutions, LLC. Fifth Third is among the largest money managers in the Midwest and, as of March 31, 2012, had $296 billion in assets under care, of which it managed $26 billion for individuals, corporations and not-for-profit organizations. Investor information and press releases can be viewed at www.53.com . Fifth Third's common stock is traded on the NASDAQ(R) National Global Select Market under the symbol "FITB." Fifth Third Bank. Member FDIC

Staff and Visitors Captivated by Color and Image Clarity 

KITCHENER, Ont. – Thirty-six Christie® MicroTiles are impressing dignitaries and staff with bright and vibrant images at the University of Toronto’s Munk School of Global Affairs. The school is an interdisciplinary academic center focusing on global issues and has hosted prime ministers, cabinet ministers and ambassadors. 

Installed in the front wall of the Vivian and David Campbell conference facility, the 6 units wide by 6 units high Christie MicroTiles array displays Blu-ray videos, still images and PowerPoint presentations for foreign and domestic officials who present their research findings at the facility.

“We were upgrading our technology and wanted not only the newest and the best – but also something very functional,” said Sean Willett, IT manager for the school. “We have dignitaries from around the world visit so the technology not only has to be top of the line; it has to look and feel impressive. It made sense to use Christie MicroTiles because they really show off their flexibility and image quality for what we need.”

Willett said the center also wanted an aesthetically pleasing display in the customized architectural space that previously housed an older video wall. Christie MicroTiles complement their environment and are a unique proposition in display technology, offering video and data display building blocks to create presentations of varying size and shape.

“It was an amazing project because we had never worked in a space that is used in so many configurations,” added Bertine Jerry, director of sales, Global Unified Solutions Services, Inc., project integrator. “It worked out incredibly well and the Christie MicroTiles look great.”

Christie MicroTiles Deliver Brilliant Colors in High Ambient Light

“Not only are some of our guests interviewed in front of the MicroTiles under harsh media lights, we have huge windows at the back of the room that sweep around the side and there are also windows right near the MicroTiles wall itself,” explained Willett. “We also have lighting that goes all the way across the top of the room. This, traditionally, makes it very difficult to see the images – but this isn’t the case with the MicroTiles.

“People are stunned by the color, clarity, and vibrancy of the images displayed on the MicroTiles – and how it looks like a seamless wall. Everyone is also very happy with how well the MicroTiles integrated with the stone, wood and paneling of the room. In fact, the Christie MicroTiles are a showpiece.”

About Christie®

Christie Digital Systems Canada Inc. is a global visual technologies company and is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Ushio, Inc., Japan, (JP:6925). Consistently setting the standards by being the first to market some of the world’s most advanced projectors and complete system displays, Christie is recognized as one of the most innovative visual technology companies in the world.  From retail displays to Hollywood, mission critical command centers to classrooms and training simulators, Christie display solutions and projectors capture the attention of audiences around the world with dynamic and stunning images.  Visit www.christiedigital.com.

Christie® is a registered trademark of Christie Digital Systems USA, Inc.
Christie® MicroTiles® is registered trademark of Christie Digital Systems USA, Inc.

Scala, Polycom Integration Showcased at Streaming Media East

Exton, PA (PRWEB) - At Streaming Media East, Scala, Inc. today announced integration between Polycom® RealPresence® Media Manager and the Scala Content Manager digital signage platform. Polycom and Scala are recognized as best-in-class software platforms and their integration provides a powerful combination which benefits companies of all sizes looking to deliver personalized experiences that communicate the right message at the right time.

The platform integration delivers video files from the Polycom enterprise video content management system to the Scala Content Manager based on user-defined rules and decisions, made within Polycom RealPresence Media Manager. The combination transmits metadata from Polycom to Scala Content Manager, enabling the Scala system to control content distribution and management across a digital signage network.

“We are privileged to partner with Polycom and have our best-in-class Content Manager platform for digital signage become Polycom-ready,” said Oscar Elizaga, Scala Senior Vice President, Americas. “We believe the integration of Scala with Polycom's enterprise video content management system will bring unparalleled benefits to our clients and reinforce the leadership position of both companies in delivering innovative solutions that help companies command attention.”

The Scala software platform drives content creation, management and distribution in digital signage networks. The software helps organizations reach large audiences in very targeted ways – at critical places such as points of decision and points of sale. With Scala software, organizations can transform markets by delivering personalized, memorable encounters with digital signage wherever consumers or employees are located.

Polycom RealPresence Media Manager streamlines the processes, devices and technology required to distribute media effectively over existing IT infrastructures. The automated, end-to-end solution supports the complete content lifecycle of all video meeting assets – from video capture to content management to viewer access to delivery across networks – regardless of source or format.

About Scala

Driving more than 500,000 screens worldwide, Scala Inc. is a leading global provider of digital signage and advertising management solutions. Scala is the world’s first connected signage company, offering the leading platforms for content creation, management and distribution in digital signage networks and the first unified platform for advertising management of both traditional and digital signage networks. Scala is headquartered near Philadelphia, Pa. USA, and has subsidiaries in Canada, The Netherlands, France, Norway, Germany, Japan and India, as well as more than 500 partners in more than 90 countries. For more information, visit: http://www.scala.com/ or the Scala blog. Connect with Scala via Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn.

Las Vegas, NV – Manufacturing Resources International (MRI) introduced their new InfiniteTouch™ 72" Interactive Touchscreen with integrated Gestural Camera. This is the first fully-interactive Touchscreen that is designed for use in outdoor environments, in direct sunlight and is mounted on MRI’s proven BoldVu® 72" High-Bright Digital LCD Display for ambient temperatures up to 50° C / 122° F.

The InfiniteTouch™ 72" Touchscreen provides the same functionally as an iPad or iPhone but also allows for multiple applications to be open at the same time and controlled independently by several users. This additional functionality increases dramatically the potential for advertising / promotional campaigns and informational uses such as WayFinding.

According to Peter Kaszycki, VP of Business Development for MRI, “The best way to envision how this new technology works is to remember the Tom Cruise movie ‘Minority Report’ where he was able to easily manipulate multiple virtual displays at the same time, zoom in / out, rotate them and swipe them on / off the field of vision. This is a life-size iPad…on steroids…with tremendous potential for Apps and Ads alike.”

First production units will be available late in the second quarter of 2012 as an option for MRI’s BoldVu® 72" Digital LCD Displays. Smaller sizes are under deployment for 55" and 47" LCDs. The first projected deployments will be in Bus Shelters with 72" Outdoor Displays in San Francisco, Paris, Sao Paulo and London.

About MRI

MRI is an Atlanta based designer and manufacturer of Digital LCD Displays (22" – 72"), Digital Menu Boards, Pump-Top Displays, and Self-Ordering Kiosks. The BoldVu® product line encompasses both indoor and outdoor configurations and includes unique features such as BrightVu® (2000 nit brightness), SureVu® (image verification), CoolVu® (for operation in direct sunlight combined with ambient temperatures up to 50°C or 122°F), and SAM® (service access modules) to provide a low cost of ownership with optimum functionality. MRI has an installed base of 9300+ units and offers both standard and custom hardware/technology designs to meet the specific application requirements. For more information, please visit www.mri-inc.net

The realty trust company is relying on Keywest Technology’s MediaXtreme Interactive (I3) software to present the public with attractive interactive digital directories in two Overland Park, Kan., office buildings.

LENEXA, Kan. – Keywest Technology today announces that realty trust company CB Richard Ellis is employing its digital signage players, interactive digital signage software and content creation services for touch-screen digital signage directories located in two Overland Park, Kan., office buildings.

The office buildings, The Tower and Lighton One, are part of an attractive business complex featuring upscale office space, reflecting pools, fountains and ample outdoor green space. The 32-inch LCD panels used to display the interactive digital directories are recessed into the wall and covered with etched smoked glass. The appearance and convenience of the directories help to create the professional ambiance the realty trust wanted for the lobbies of the buildings.

Visitors can browse through the directories to find their destinations with the simple touch of a finger to the screen. Digital signage interactivity is managed securely over a network connection with Keywest Technology’s MediaXtremeTM Interactive (I3) software.

“Office building directories are a terrific application for interactive digital signage systems,” said Nick Nichols, Keywest Technology president. “Not only does interactive signage make changing listings fast and easy as tenants move in and out, but it also imparts the professional feel many leading companies are hoping to convey to visitors.”

In both the Tower and Lighton One buildings, the interactive digital directories are strategically positioned to give visitors a convenient listing of tenants. Design and actual tenant listings for the digital directories were created by Keywest Technology’s professional content development team. CB Richard Ellis personnel make changes to listings quickly and easily as needed.

At the heart of the digital directories is Keywest Technology’s MediaXtreme I3 software, which provides an interactive editor that can be interfaced with sensory inputs. With MediaXtreme I3 software, it is possible to turn ordinary flat panels into targeted self-service directories and many other kiosks just by changing the content over a network connection.

About Keywest Technology

Keywest Technology is a turnkey innovator of digital signage products including software and content creation services designed to produce exceptional communication results. The company is also a pioneer in customer engagement signage, which couples the appeal of dynamic signage with the interactivity. Learn more at www.KeywestTechnology.com

DSA will conduct a one-hour webinar on May 22 on near field communications (NFC), a technology with a lot of potential when incorporated with smartphones.

The Digital Screenmedia Association (DSA) will host a free one-hour webinar at 12 noon Eastern on May 22 entitled “The Myths and Realities Surrounding NFC.”

Webinar description:

Imagine a world where copious amounts of information about anything you can touch are only a smartphone-tap away. Imagine, too, a world where goods and services are bought simply with a tap of a smartphone. These are just two examples of the vast potential uses for Near Field Communications (NFC).

But what is NFC? How does it work? How is it being used today, and when will it reach mass adoption? This webinar will examine these questions and seek to give attendees a clearer understanding of NFC and a more realistic perspective on the current state of NFC deployments.

Speakers include:


Mikhail Damiani, CEO and chairman of the board, Blue Bite

Rob Sabella, founder and CEO, OTA Training/NFC Bootcamp

John Shuster, analyst, NFC, customer engagement technology & retail automation, VDC Research Group

The webinar will be moderated by Steve Gurley, SVP of global marketing and business development for Symon Communications and chair of DSA’s Mobile Council.

Register

AUSTIN, Texas--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Starmount today announced that Urban Outfitters has been named a 2012 Top Innovator by Apparel Magazine for its successful implementation of Starmount’s mobile POS solution, Engage. Urban Outfitter’s deployment of Engage has brought a heightened level of customer service into the store, as shoppers enjoy fewer lines, faster transaction times and a more connected shopping experience.

“Our customers have come to expect a differentiated shopping experience”
.Urban Outfitters has rolled out Starmount’s mobile selling solution across all of its brands: Urban Outfitters, Anthropologie, Free People, Terrain and BHLDN, which are known for their eclectic mix of men’s and women’s apparel, fashion accessories, housewares and gifts.

Customers have noticed the change mobile POS has brought to the shopping experience, and feedback has been positive. “Our customers have come to expect a differentiated shopping experience,” John Devine, executive director of IT, Urban Outfitters, told Apparel Magazine. “With the mobile POS solution, our sales associates are freed from behind the cash wrap to interact with customers at the point-of-interest, enhancing customer service.”

Urban Outfitters’ associates also have access to online inventory using their mobile devices, allowing them to save the sale when merchandise is out of stock in the store but available online. Starmount's mobile selling system includes the ability to purchase items from multiple channels in one transaction.

While sales associates can now complete transactions from anywhere on the store floor, Devine shared with Apparel Magazine that “one area of particularly noteworthy success has been the ability to check out customers as they are leaving the fitting room.” Urban Outfitters plans to rollout additional mobile selling features within Engage, including access to product reviews, designer notes and outfitting suggestions.

Apparel Magazine’s annual Top Innovator award recognizes apparel retailers, brands and manufacturers who have deployed new technology in unique ways to improve the business.

About Starmount

Starmount software solutions bring the richness of the Web and the power of mobile into the store, where retailers can create more personalized, relevant, and dynamic interactions with customers. From mobile selling to interactive kiosks, our retail solutions transform the store environment to a more connected, engaging shopping experience. Starmount works with a diverse client base of leading retailers around the world, such as Pep Boys, Urban Outfitters, REI, Forever 21 and Home Depot. For more information, visit www.starmount.com, read the blog at www.starmount.com/blog, and follow on Twitter at www.twitter.com/starmountretail.

DSA gained 42 new members in the past two months, including end-users, vendors, a digital signage network and several individuals. Companies are joining DSA to take advantage of numerous benefits such as education, networking and discounts.

Louisville, KY (PRWEB) - The Digital Screenmedia Association (DSA), the premier non-profit association serving the digital signage, interactive kiosk and mobile industries, has announced the addition of 42 new members over the past two months.

In alphabetical order by member category, they are:

New User/Deployer Members

•     AbsolutelyNew, Inc.
•     Alberta Gaming and Liquor Commission
•     Bluemark Healthcare
•     Cambric, Ltd.
•     City of Palo Alto Utilities
•     Fastrip
•     General Motors
•     IHK
•     Kum and Go
•     Les Concierges
•     Long Beach Convention and Visitors Bureau
•     Miss California Princess Program
•     NOAA/Nat'l Ocean Service
•     One Eighty
•     Radisson LAX/Sheraton LAX
•     Ripley Entertainment Inc.
•     Rug Doctor, Inc.
•     SAMRAC LLC
•     San Francisco International Airport
•     SCS, LLC
•     Squaw Valley
•     The Idea Travel Company
•     The John Marshall Law School
•     The Masters College
•     Thienviet Co. Ltd.
•     Third Coast Search
•     University of New Mexico
•     Vitamin Shoppe
•     Yahoo!
  

New Vendor Members

•     MokiMobility
•     Shuttle Computer
•     VendorSafe Technologies
•     Vigix
•     YCD Multimedia
  

New Network Operator Member

•     U.S. Army IMCOM G9 ARMP
  

New Individual Members

•     Leila Banijamali, Banijamali & Associates
•     Edward Blanchard, Blanchard Communications   
•     Ned Fasullo, Transformyx, Inc.    
•     Chris Goumas, The Interactiv Group   
•     Ishak Kang, Dot UI
•     Sheridan Orr, The Interrobang Agency
•     Steve Young, AOpen 

“We’re thrilled to have so many new members join the DSA in recent months,” said David Drain, DSA executive director. “There are a lot of people interested customer engagement technologies. To be successful, you need to stay ahead of the curve and have access to valuable information and contacts. Membership in DSA gives you just that.”

In addition to visibility on the DSA website, DSA members receive exclusive access to a library of best practices and the recently released ROI calculator. Members save money on research reports and exhibiting at Customer Engagement Technology World (CETW).

DSA publishes a weekly e-newsletter to over 8,500 subscribers, holds two awards competitions annually, hosts networking events, produces educational webinars and maintains a speaker’s bureau, among other activities.

Current active councils and committees include:

•     Digital Signage Council
•     Mobile Council
•     Self-Service Kiosk Council
•     Awards Committee
•     Education Committee
•     Membership & Marketing Committee
•     Trade Show Committee
  

About the Digital Screenmedia Association (DSA)

With nearly 700 members, DSA is an independent, not-for-profit trade association whose purpose is to advance the growth and excellence of the global digital signage, interactive kiosk and mobile community through advocacy, education and networking. Members include users of digital screenmedia in all vertical markets, as well as manufacturers, resellers and distributors of hardware and software, network operators, integrators, advertising agencies, consultants, analysts, publishers, tradeshow organizers and service companies. See http://www.digitalscreenmedia.org.

Updated Software Offers Enhanced Applications, Restyled Interface, and New External Data Sources

HAWTHORNE, N.Y. — BTX Technologies, a value-added distributor and manufacturer of interface, integration, and system products, today announced that the company is offering PADS4, Net Display Systems' (NDS) next-generation digital signage software. PADS4 is the successor to the award-winning PADS Professional software and offers restyled and enhanced applications, simplified installation, streamlined processes, and much more — providing any audience with the right targeted content at the right time.

"With PADS4, NDS has once again taken digital signage to the next level, providing a simple but effective solution for deploying professional and profitable installations of any size," said Greg Schwartz, president of BTX Technologies. "As NDS' U.S. distributor and technical support provider, we are pleased to offer this highly customizable and economical solution to meet the needs of any of our customers' digital signage applications."

To increase productivity and reduce the learning curve for using PADS4, the digital signage software's applications have been restyled to the latest Microsoft® Office type of user interface. In addition, PADS Designer has been enriched with new items, including a content organizer system, which is automatically synchronized across the entire PADS installation, while the PADS Scheduler application — formerly known as PADS Manager — has received a completely new calendar view. The performance of PADS Viewer has been improved to play out presentations more smoothly, and features the ability to combine different view types within one package. Users no longer need to purchase multiple signage solutions if the requirements vary from simple to complex content.

New native data providers allow for real-time external sources. With PADS4, integrating real-time data from sources including Microsoft Exchange, Microsoft Dynamics®, SAP, content management systems, room reservation systems, queue management, and social media is an effortless process. Predefined configurations and an automatic server detection feature simplify installation. In addition, a complete new 'engine' has been placed into the PADS system enabling a new SDK to develop custom solutions more easily and quickly.
"The addition of new data sources is a key feature of PADS4," said Louis van Geldrop, CEO of Net Display Systems. "By integrating with existing databases, content management systems, and more, the software saves network operators the time and expense of duplicating content for their digital signage system."

PADS4 allows users to easily incorporate interactivity into their signage system using touch-screens, RFID, barcodes, QR codes, and face recognition.

About Net Display Systems

Since their establishment in 1994 Net Display Systems has evolved into a recognized worldwide player for digital signage software. Their core-business is developing digital signage software called PADS.

With an extensive partner network the company is proactive in more than 75 countries. Their partners are dedicated and specialized professionals providing installation, training and support of their products. Net Display Systems has thousands of installations in multiple market sectors from transportation, corporate and government to hospitality and retail.
One in four of the hundred world's most recognized brands have chosen PADS as their digital signage platform.

Every day millions of people all over the world see displays running the PADS software of Net Display Systems. Installations vary from simple standalone solutions to national or global, complex and often mission critical digital signage solutions.

About BTX Technologies, Inc.

BTX manufactures and distributes the industry's finest interface and integration products for audio, video, security, digital signage, and many other applications. Providing its customers with value-added "Beyond Distribution" services, the company backs every product it sells with a rigorous in-house testing program and highly trained customer support team. The company has been certified as an InfoComm International® Sapphire Certified Audiovisual Solutions Provider® (CAVSP®) since 2007. In business since 1967, the company's products are available online at www.btx.com, by calling 800-666-0996, and from a selection of international distributors listed on the company's website.

All trademarks and registered trademarks mentioned herein are the property of their respective owners.

Founder of Mylan Laboratories, Elan Pharmaceuticals, and the American Le Mans Motorsports Series, among others, brings ­50 years of business success to NanoLumens.

NORCROSS, GEORGIA, - Moving strategically to prepare for the next critically important stage of its growth, NanoLumens® today announced the appointment of Dr. Donald E. Panoz to the position of Chairman of the Board, according to Rick Cope, President & CEO of the Norcross, Georgia-based manufacturer and marketer of the revolutionary NanoLumens flexible and fixed LED displays.

Starting in 1960 when he co-founded Mylan Laboratories, one of the world’s leading producers of generic drugs, Dr. Panoz has had an extraordinary 50-year career of major entrepreneurial successes in fields as far ranging as pharmaceuticals, resorts, motorsports and wine. After establishing Mylan Laboratories, Dr. Panoz went on to found Elan Pharmaceuticals, the company that created the transdermal method of medication delivery — the technology that led directly to the development of the nicotine patch. In 1985 Dr. Panoz took Elan Pharmaceuticals public and thereafter set Wall Street records with three consecutive years of 100 percent profit growth.

Following his success in the pharmaceutical industry, Dr. Panoz turned his attention, and considerable talents, to developing a number of very successful world-class resorts including the five-star Chateau Elan Winery & Resort in Atlanta, Georgia; the St. Andrews Bay Golf Resort & Spa in St. Andrews, Scotland; and the Diablo Grand Winery & Resort, Patterson, California.

Not content with revolutionizing two major industries, Dr. Panoz next turned to motorsports, joining forces with his son Daniel to create Panoz Auto Development, developer of the critically acclaimed Panoz Esperante high-performance sports car—a winner at Sebring and American Le Mans in 2006. Their success on the racetrack led to Panoz’s founding of the American Le Mans Series, now the leading sports car series in the world.

“We are very pleased to welcome Don, an early investor and board member, as our new Chairman of The Board,” Cope said today, “His 50 years of success in taking start up companies in multiple industries to positions of global market success is one of the great track records in American business history. We are honored to have Don take a leadership role at this critically important juncture in our history. His experience, vision and acute business acumen will play a major role in helping us to achieve our long-term growth objectives.”

For his part, Dr. Panoz noted that, “Every once in a great while, a truly unique company with groundbreaking technology comes to market with the opportunity to forever change the rules of the game. NanoLumens is that company in the field of 21st century digital signage solutions. Their core technology, coupled with their innovative design and engineering teams, is rapidly redefining how people communicate with one another. I am proud to be a part of this young American business success story.”

NanoLumens displays are extremely slim, ultra-lightweight, energy efficient, and feature a seamless, edge-to-edge picture quality (up to a brightness of 5,000 nits) that can be viewed from any angle or any distance without color shift or picture drop-off. The company’s patented display technology, which allows customers to select from 4mm up to 10mm pixel pitch (depending on the model), promises to transform the way marketers engage their customers in every type of trade show, retail, hospitality, stadium, arena, transportation and public event environment.

NanoLumens displays are designed and engineered with the environment in mind, and consume significantly less energy per square foot than conventional digital displays. Further emphasizing their commitment to eco-friendly technology, NanoLumens displays are composed of up to 50 percent reclaimed materials, and are completely recyclable.  What’s more, some NanoLumens displays can be serviced from the front, making maintenance easier than ever before possible.

Designed and assembled in the United States, NanoLumens displays are available in both flexible and fixed frames in five product lines: NanoFlex™, NanoFlex Wrap, and NanoFlex Ribbon flexible displays; NanoSlim™ fixed rectangular displays; and NanoShape™ fixed round, square, and triangular displays.

The Company’s technology has been recognized by Entrepreneur magazine as a 2011 future-proof tech trend and was cited by The Wall Street Journal in its 2010 Technology Innovations Awards.  NanoLumens’ technology also received the 2011 Breakthrough Technology of the Year Award at the American Technology Awards. Digital Signage Magazine awarded the NanoLumens NanoFlex a 2011 DIGI Award for “Best New Display Device – Non-LCD or Plasma.”

About NanoLumens

Headquartered in Norcross, Georgia, NanoLumens, Inc. (www.nanolumens.com) is a privately held corporation engaged in the research, product development, marketing and sales of unique flexible and fixed displays that address a yawning technology gap in the $14 billion digital display industry. Since its founding in 2006, NanoLumens has built a portfolio of more than 20 international families of issued and filed patents on its flexible display technology that effectively address the commercial market void between relatively small flat-panel displays and huge, limited application LED boards. NanoLumens technology is not constrained by standard sizes and shapes, or by the weight, noise and cost issues traditionally associated with commercial LED products.

Toronto, Ontario –  iSIGN Media Solutions Inc., a leading provider of interactive mobile advertising solutions that serves advertisers, manufacturers, retailers and advertising agencies throughout North America is pleased to announce that is has created www.dealhere.ca to provide consumers with information on how to access its messaging.

The Company previously announced in mid-March that it had completed the installation of its Interactive Marketing Solution (“IMS”) 3.1 software and Bluetooth antennas in the Mac’s Convenience Stores Inc. chain and that the system was ready for broadcasting.
“As advertising to mobile devices is a new advertising medium that requires people to ‘program’ their devices to accept messaging, we felt that we needed to provide consumers with information on how to access our messages,” said Alex Romanov, iSIGN’s Chief Executive Officer. “As we are receiving a great deal of Interest from a variety of different advertiser types in participating in our mobile broadcasting, we felt that a way of communicating with consumers that was effective for all advertisers as well as each installation was required.”

“We debated alternate ways of communicating with consumers, including providing hand-outs in stores where our software is located,” added Mr. Romanov. “We rejected this as it was felt it would be an imposition to the stores’ staff, as well as being too costly and less effective. In our opinion, providing an iSIGN website for consumers of our system, regardless of where the installation is, made far more sense. As a result, we decided to invest in the additional time to create www.dealhere.ca, a website that provides consumers with knowledge about our system and instructions on how to set up their mobile devices and access their messages before we commence full broadcasting.”

“We believe that this investment will prove to be worthwhile, for both advertisers as well as for the stores where our software and equipment is currently located as well as future installations,” stated Mr. Romanov.

About iSIGN Media

iSIGN Media is a North American leader in multiplatform advertising solutions that utilize Bluetooth, Mobile, WiFi and Location-Aware technologies to deliver rich media, permission-based messages to engage consumers more deeply and cost-effectively. The resulting business intelligence and real time metrics, gathered through iSIGN’s patent-pending advertising platform, deliver insights into emerging consumer behaviors that help advertisers measure their efforts and make better business decisions to increase ROI and customer loyalty. Headquartered in Richmond Hill, Ontario, with R&D and customer support operations in Vancouver, BC and Tampa, FL, the Company has also grown to become the largest owner/operator of in-store digital media in Canada with 5,600 digital signs in 1,400 locations. Partners include: AOpen America Inc. and IBM, with solution
distribution by BlueStar Inc. iSIGN is publicly traded in Toronto (TSX.V). Additional information can be found at www.isignmedia.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release includes certain forward-looking statements that are based upon current expectations, which involve risks and uncertainties associated with iSIGN Media’s business and the environment in which the business operates. Any statements contained herein that are not statements of historical facts may be deemed to be forward-looking, including those identified by the expressions "anticipate", "believe", "plan", "estimate", "expect", "intend", and similar expressions to the extent they relate to the Company or its management. The forward-looking statements are not historical facts, but reflect iSIGN Media’s current expectations regarding future results or events. These forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from current expectations. iSIGN Media assumes no obligation to update the forward-looking statements, or to update the reasons why actual results could differ from those reflected in the forward-looking statements.

© 2012 iSIGN Media Solutions Inc. All Rights Reserved. All other trademarks and trade names are the property of their respective owners.

LINCOLN, NE – Nanonation today announced that founder, President and CEO Bradley Walker has sold his interest in the company and will assume a new role as Senior Advisor to the Board of Directors for the company during the transition of management responsibilities. Day-to-day management of the company will be driven by the existing management team members including Brian Ardinger, Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer, and Bryan Fairfield, Vice President of Sales.

Brian Ardinger, immediate past-President of the Digital Screenmedia Association, said, “Bradley has been a tremendous force in our industry. From his technical vision for solutions and products to his innovative strategies for customer engagement, Nanonation and our industry in general has benefited tremendously from his leadership.”

In 2005 Bradley Walker was recognized with the Industry Leader of the Year award and in 2009 he was elected to the Self-Service and Kiosk Association’s Hall of Fame. Just last month, Nanonation was again recognized for its leadership in customer engagement technologies, securing the 2012 Best Digital Retail application the its client Build-A-Bear Workshops. The award continues a series of accomplishments for the company and its executive team. The move announced today will ensure a seamless transition in leadership going forward.

“I am really looking forward to seeing what this team can accomplish with a new sense of ownership. Every dozen years or so, you have to invigorate your team and ask them to reach new heights.” Said Mr. Walker. “This will allow the Nanonation team to pursue its vision for the next 12 years and will afford me the chance to think creatively about other business challenges and opportunities. After 17 years of non-stop new venture creation, I am eager to apply my skills in new ways.”

About Nanonation

Nanonation’s enterprise-class software for digital signage and kiosks drives sales and fuels profits. With proven tools and technologies to enhance the customer experience, businesses can now deliver powerful messaging and integrated marketing services seamlessly across an enterprise — all while monitoring, measuring, and managing each customer interaction. Nanonation develops innovative solutions across a broad range of technologies including Windows 7, Apple OS, and iOS and other mobile platforms in the retail, hospitality, entertainment, and financial services markets. For more information, visit www.nanonation.net.

vablet file management and MokiMobility device management platform integrate features to deliver the most complete mobile solution for corporate environments. The alliance enhances security of content and offers greater level of control over individual devices authorized for employee use.

Irvine, CA (PRWEB) - AppSolutely, Inc., developer of vablet®, an iPhone/ iPad file management solution targeting enterprise users, has signed a formal agreement with MokiMobility, a mobile device management platform. The alliance is intended to enhance security of content as well as a greater level of corporate control over an individual device authorized for employee use.

The vablet SaaS solution provides secure file access, distribution analytics, and a digital signage solution for iPad, iPhone and Android users. Its featured “push” technology puts content directly on to the mobile device, mitigating the need for an ongoing Internet connection to a corporate server or to a cloud. With MokiMobility’s platform, users have greater control at the device level, where they can remotely manage and customize iPads and Android devices as well as applications required to meet individual user needs. The combination of both technologies into one application, results in a complete and efficient solution for IT departments tasked with supporting the increasing number of mobile devices entering their corporate environments.

"The value of this strategic alliance is in the balance of efficiency and security that mobile users expect from their devices," said Paul Pacun, founder of vablet. "Corporations are the fastest growing user base because of the convenience these devices provide to their workforce, and our partnership with MokiMobility allows for a wider array of security options in one simple application."

According to recent IDC research, the total estimated number of smartphones and tablets sold will reach close to 700 million by 2015. This adoption rate is more accelerated than PCs, laptops, mobile phones and other wireless devices.

“MokiMobility and vablet have the same ultimate goal: to help companies manage the increasing number of mobile devices they’re encountering in the workforce in the way that works best for them,” said Ty Allen, president of MokiMobility. “By working together, these companies have far greater control over the mobile devices and the installed applications, letting them create new and engaging customer experiences.”

Vablet is currently available to download from iTunes and for Android devices through the Appaloosa Appstore.

About AppSolutely, Inc

Based in Irvine, California, AppSolutely, Inc. is a leading technology innovator. Their flagship app, vablet, is a new container technology providing secure file access, document distribution and digital signage solutions for iPad, iPhone and Android users. Their enterprise-grade application is uniquely driven by a ‘push’ format, providing content management solutions that work directly with devices in addition to the convenience of a cloud. For more information, call at 1.800.615.4296 or go to http://www.vablet.com.

About MokiMobility +MDM

Based in Lehi, Utah, MokiMobility enables independent software vendors (ISVs) and solution providers to build compelling solutions that include cloud-based mobile application and device management for the iPad and Android devices. As a result, developers have greater control over the complete experience, enabling more engaging and new customer experiences leveraging iOS and Android tablets in new ways. For more information, please visit http://www.mokimobility.com or follow us on Twitter at @mokimobility

Find out why we need them all on May 30th, at 2:00 pm EDT, for an interactive webcast that will cover the following:

• Benefits and differences in consumer grade players versus embedded solutions
• Why leveraging a large eco system of suppliers makes your job easier
• How Microsoft Windows Embedded ensures for quicker and more secure signage deployments
• Quick update from Intel on OPS, the role and significance they see being played by integrated solutions moving forward to help address the historical fragmentation of the DS market

Featured Speakers: 

Scott Silverstein
Corporate Supplier Manager 
Arrow Electronics

John Coyne
Sr. Partner Technology Manager 
Microsoft

Ravi Sirigineedi 
North America Visual Retail Marketing Manager 
Intel Retail Solutions

Lenny Bates
Senior Solutions Architect 
Arrow Electronics

Join Digital Signage Magazine and Arrow on May 30th at 2:00 PM EST for this FREE webinar.

Register Today!

LAS VEGAS, NV (MARKETWIRE via COMTEX) -- JCM Global, the gaming industry's leading supplier of automated transactions and digital displays, has signed a global agreement with Four Winds Interactive (FWi), giving JCM customers the benefit of one-stop shopping for all of their digital signage needs.

FWi is a leading provider of digital signage software, and with this new agreement, JCM customers will enjoy the benefit of a convenient one-stop answer for best-in-class digital display hardware, content development and content management software.

JCM and FWi are jointly showing this week at Southern Gaming Summit in booth #827.

"Customers across North America and around the world have come to rely on JCM for our wide range of display solutions to attract and entertain customers. Now with this partnership with Four Winds Interactive, we can further help customers reach their target audiences in the most dynamic, visually dazzling way possible," said JCM Business Development Manager Jeff Gray.

FWi is the digital signage software supplier to many of the major properties in Las Vegas, Atlantic City and across the United States. In addition, Digital Signage Magazine recently named Four Winds Interactive winner of the 2012 Judges Choice DIGI Award.

FWi Director of Business Development Dave Barker said, "We are thrilled to be partnering with JCM Global to provide our leading software and cutting-edge design capabilities to JCM customers. Our companies' combined experience will be mutually beneficial to our customers around the world."

About JCM Global

JCM Global is the world's leading supplier of innovative automated transactions solutions for the banking, gaming and retail industries. With unsurpassed service and support, JCM Global is trusted by operators, manufacturers and integrators on six continents. Its extensive line of award-winning products set global standards with ground-breaking products like the iVIZION(R), Universal Bill Acceptor (UBA(R)) and Vega-RC(TM) bill validators, Intelligent Cash Box (ICB(R)) and PayCheck 4(TM) thermal printer. For more information, visit JCM Global's 24-hour tradeshow at www.jcmglobal.com .

About Four Winds Interactive

Four Winds Interactive (FWi) provides a software platform for developing, deploying and managing digital communications networks on digital signs, interactive kiosks, web and mobile devices. FWi's solution makes it possible to quickly and easily create dynamic messages to inform, educate and motivate your audiences through a single solution that supports all of your digital communications applications. FWi was recently recognized as #16 on Forbes list of "America's Most Promising Companies." Visit www.fourwindsinteractive.com for more information.