Did you know that telework is a form of performing work, using information technology, in the context of an employment relationship, where work is carried out away from the employer’s premises, on a regular basis? This kind of work is increasingly present in public and private organizations around the world. Cost savings, ease of reconciliation, less travel time, and reduction of pollution generated by means of transport are some of the advantages of teleworking.

For employees to be able to carry out their work from anywhere need a computer and Internet access. If all the members of the team have these tools, the work can be done in a dynamic and collaborative way as it would be done from the office.

There is no better computer model for teleworking but without a doubt interactive monitors add to the advantages of corporations over traditional models. This is due to the fact that besides allowing Internet access, videoconferences, and the usual programs, it also offers the possibility of sharing screens, making notes on documents, sending information with the modifications applied to such different contents as texts or videos, etc.

By incorporating interactive screens, corporations can opt for teleworking by ensuring permanent collaboration between those in the office and those who connect remotely. The information will flow naturally allowing everyone involved to be on the same page, continue or undertake team tasks and achieve the expected results.

Newline has a wide range of interactive screens, not only for the professional environment, but also for educational centers. If you want to know what they are and what features and advantages each model offers, do not hesitate to take a look at the website.

There is no doubt that COVID-19 has caused new technologies to be your perfect ally during this stage of confinement. While we have experienced a forced shutdown from the outside, the digital world has become even more important to us. Companies, education establishments, and society continue routinely thanks to the adoption of technological resources: Internet, computers, software, cloud services & videoconferencing tools.

During these months, professionals, teachers and students have been forced to change their daily routine. Videoconference’s are one of the most popular resources these days & thanks to them we can continue working, learning and communicating, without causing risk due to our social activities.

There are many tools to connect through a touch screen, and they all offer benefits that should be considered:

• Cost reduction – The travel expenses are reduced for the employees & the corporation.
• Anytime, anywhere – You only need a screen with Internet access to connect. Videoconference’s make the workday more flexible and can complement family life.
• Avoid contact – Replacing physical meetings with virtual ones allows you to preserve the health of those involved by dispensing with mass meetings.
• Saves time – During confinement many have noticed that meetings by videoconference are more efficient. Waiting time for attendees is reduced and topics are dealt with more directly. They serve for much more than just holding meetings, as they encourage the creation of collaborative digital spaces where people can interact, share ideas, documents, make notes in real time & hold simultaneous conversations.
• For professionals and students – Videoconferencing goes beyond the business environment, whether public or private. In addition to the advantages of incorporating it into the work dynamic of any organization, this resource also stands out in education establishments.

The “new normal” will encompass smaller face-to-face meetings to avoid unnecessary travels and allow connection remotely with participants that are in different offices or meeting rooms.

We are going through very uncertain times lately and we do not know what is going to happen in the short, mid, or long term. What we can be sure about is that our lives, and subsequently, education, have changed forever.

Every day we see information in the news that makes us reconsider the situation and look for new solutions to cope with the present situation in the best way possible, widely speaking. Regarding education, the majority of the most evolved societies, have been forced to adapt the way they deliver lessons, either because of the introduction of new ways of working that we did not need to consider up to this date, but also because of the need to create suitable content whilst delivering student communication in new ways.

The situation in each country differs, but also within each country different realities coexist, which is why we cannot generalize about what is going to be the “new norm” in education. At the moment, there are countries/educational institutions that are trying to come back to classrooms almost the same way they did before the pandemic, others that aspire to be able to combine distance with face-to-face learning, and others that will opt for just distance learning in the short to midterm.

So, the three scenarios that most frequently will be found appear to be:

• Face-to-face education: either the number of students per classroom is the same or it is reduced by an increase of the number of classrooms, teacher shifts, and/or teachers, it is necessary to ensure the necessary distance between them, and with the teacher. The capability to interact from each desk with the rest of the attendees is key, to guarantee a secure distance and minimize the risk of contamination. An interactive display can help to ease interactivity between teacher and students, with the content sharing from the main device (interactive display) to the students and vice versa. Frequent cleaning of the displays and stylus is a must. Newline interactive displays work with a regular passive stylus, so… why not provide each of the students with one of them?

• Blended learning: or face-to-face education for some of the students, and distance learning for the others, alternating groups to attend school, so the number of students simultaneously in the same space decreases but they still attend the lessons “together”. It will be necessary to share the content with the students’ devices regardless of whether they are physically present (as we mentioned in the previous scenario) or remotely present and to connect the home working students by videoconference, with the tools of each school´s choice. An external camera to record the teacher interacting with the interactive display during the lesson is key to catch the student’s attention. The engagement of sharing content remotely with the students increases when the teacher is being seen interacting, writing, drawing, etc. as they do in face-to-face lessons. In the case of an additional webcam embedded in the display, it can face the classroom-based students if necessary.

• Distance learning: many organizations are opting for these kinds of lectures like the prestigious Cambridge University just announced. But as some researchers reveal, the lack of face-to-face lessons may cause the students to lose interest. In order to make online lectures similar to face-to-face lectures, the recommendation is to share the content and to make the videoconference using an external camera pointing to and capturing the teacher interacting with the display during the lesson, as mentioned in the previous scenario. The engagement of the attendees will be significantly increased. Why not record the lessons performed in a natural way, to provide the additional advantage of reviewing them afterward?

The future is difficult to predict, but what seems to be clear is that the change to interactive lessons is a must, the digital content is needed now, more than ever. Having the necessary tools to interact with the students will make a difference. The technological leap is here, and at Newline we can help any organization make it safely and easily. The Newline interactive displays are compatible with any educational software tool and any videoconference application, and they interact in a very intuitive way with any other device. Our society has completely changed. We have to make the most of it now. Newline can help you deliver online lessons!

By now, it’s widely accepted that technology is needed in the classroom to enhance student learning. However, how much is it helping teachers be more productive, effective, and innovative?

Teachers need a technology companion in the classroom that is more portable, intuitive, and adaptable than previous classroom technology. The perfect complement to the interactive large format display, desktop collaboration devices translate well into the teacher meeting space and remote teaching environments.

In this article, we will discuss the ways in which an interactive desktop monitor frees the teacher from the classroom while maintaining effective and engaging lessons.

What is a Desktop Collaboration Device?

Desktop collaboration devices are all-in-one communication monitors (about 23” to 28” screens) that streamline all the components needed for video calls and whiteboard collaboration. Typically, an integrated microphone and speakers come with the device, but many newer models include a camera as well.

Videoconferencing software will either be integrated into the operating system, like with the DTEN Me and Zoom, or provide compatibility with all videoconferencing software, like Newline Flex.

Some of the best desktop collaboration devices have touch technology that allows the user to annotate directly on the screen with a finger or stylus/active pen. The touch technology ranges widely in key features like object recognition, touch sensitivity, and pressure sensitivity. The more advanced the features, the more intuitive the writing experience.

This new device type opens possibilities for remote teaching because it frees the teacher from the classroom board, desk, and even the room itself. Video sessions can start instantly and be controlled by the touchscreen device. It can also serve as the complete solution for teaching from home with as little as two connected devices.

Beyond the Digital Whiteboard

Studies and reports have shown that the addition of the “digital whiteboard” or large-format interactive display increases student learning in the classroom. The interactive/collaborative component engages the students at a deeper level and knowledge retention increases by over 30% compared to analog lesson delivery. Additionally, teachers have easier access to online learning tools and lesson content thanks to the large screen that connects to the internet and can be seen by the entire classroom.

Now that this has become an industry standard, “ease-of-use” and adaptability for the teacher takes the mainstage. Classroom technology is no longer a complement to everyday lessons, but now an integral part of lesson creation and delivery. The tools that teachers must interact with daily should fit their teaching style and give them the same, if not more, flexibility to do their work as analog teaching does.

This is where the limitations of the classroom learning ecosystem break down. Analog and digital tools alike are less effective and more cumbersome in a remote teaching environment. Since the transition to hybrid and remote learning began, the classroom setup introduced more required technology and a renewed learning curve just to keep lessons flowing.

Desktop collaboration devices bridge the gap for teachers who need a streamlined technology solution in a hybrid/remote environment.

Flexibility to Conquer Remote Teaching

The first aspect of in-person teaching to change was the need to stand at the board in front of the room. Whether the teacher preferred to sit at a desk, walk around, or stand stationary at the board; like a magnet, the board drew the teacher back to the front of the room to illustrate points or write down key items of the lesson.

With an all-in-one touch monitor, such as the Newline Flex, the teacher can bring “the board” with them. If the environment is hybrid, the teacher can sit/stand in front of the Flex camera for the remote students and still easily engage with the students in person. A fully remote class can also stay engaged while the teacher uses one device to start a video session and present the lesson on a touch screen. Note, with a portable desktop collaboration device, the teacher can be remote as well.

Simply put, desktop collaboration devices help maintain interactivity within each lesson regardless of the teacher’s location. This is a game-changer for teachers who must work from home or manage a group of students who are in multiple locations.

Desktop collaboration devices bridge the gap for teachers who need a streamlined technology solution in a hybrid/remote environment.

Reduce Technology Clutter

Most classroom technology ecosystems require three devices at a minimum: interactive display, teacher’s personal device (i.e. laptop), and camera. This does not include a potential external microphone, keyboard, additional teaching devices such as an iPad, and all the connecting cables. This can become a problem for teachers who are not comfortable with managing so many devices and the inevitable troubleshooting when things don’t quite connect.

Having a desktop collaboration device streamlines all these devices into one for the teacher. Additionally, it is portable and flexible to the teacher’s needs. Different from a desktop computer, this device can easily be transported from school to remote locations just like a laptop. Plus, the extra cables and peripheral devices are totally taken out of the equation.

Instantly, teachers feel less pressure to operate as their own IT support staff when it comes to connecting devices, starting class, and sharing content online with students. Everything is integrated into one device effectively eliminating much of the troubleshooting needed for multiple devices in the remote learning environment.

This device does not replace the teacher’s laptop and there is no need for it to be replaced. This is a manageable upgrade to the laptop experience by providing quality video, audio, and touch capability to a device with already built-in computing power, preferred apps, and security software.

Easily Start Lessons without the Hassle

With more and more classes taking place online, connecting peripheral devices for video sessions are more important. However, time and time again, cameras disconnect, microphone settings change, and the list goes on. The advantage of having a desktop collaboration device is that all these hardware pieces are integrated. This frees up time and hassle at the beginning of class to get straight to the lesson. Not to mention, this makes transport from space to space more feasible with as little as two devices.

Emulate Classroom Teaching Methods

As technology evolves, so does the capacity to naturally interact. Devices are less of a barrier and more of an open door to easy communication. The desktop collaboration device mimics traditional teaching styles in the most crucial ways. Teachers can use the integrated whiteboard to handwrite lesson content. With devices like the Newline Flex, an active pen makes the writing experience more natural and the tilt feature lowers the screen for more comfortable handwriting. Making annotations is another feature that allows teachers to better illustrate points on pre-existing lesson documents and handle paperwork digitally while away from the school.

About the Newline Flex

Newline Flex is a revolutionary 27″ all-in-one interactive desktop collaboration device. It comes equipped with a 4K screen, attached 4K camera, built-in microphone array, integrated speakers, and an active pen. All these features and components are what teachers need to get started with an interactive lesson!

The Newline Flex can be connected to your own device such as a laptop to work with the programs, apps, and browsers that teachers normally use and are familiar with. The learning curve is drastically decreased since the device is non-proprietary. That means it works with any software or hardware already in use if it can be connected. The Flex comes with a powered USB-C connection that enables touch capability and “touchback”—which means the original device (laptop) mirrors anything the user does on the touchscreen. There is also USB and HDMI connectivity on the Flex.

Other key features of the Flex include the compatibility with all videoconferencing apps such as Zoom, Google Classroom, Webex, and more. Teachers can also enjoy the intuitive writing experience with digital whiteboards and annotation software.

Newline Flex is meant to adapt to the needs of the users, especially teachers who need a more flexible teaching environment. Learn more on the Newline website. Flex is the latest hardware addition to Newline’s products, complementing the large format displays perfect for classroom teaching with interactivity, collaboration tools, and more built-in. Check those out here.

It’s the month of love but we’re talking about more than relationships. Isn’t it time that you fall in love with your workplace productivity devices? Whether you work from home or the office, Newline products are worthy of your affection. In return, you will feel empowered to connect to the world, create your best work, and collaborate with your team. 

Here’s a look at five reasons why you should love Newline products and what they can do for your daily productivity. 

Love That It’s Non-Committal (Non-Proprietary)

Firstly, all Newline displays are non-proprietary. In other words, you can use any software of your choosing without being locked into Newline software options only. Why is this such a big deal?

Think back to the last time you purchased a new smartphone, and more specifically, when that phone wasn’t the same brand of the device you were replacing. Are you cringing as much as we are? That transfer process was so difficult because you had to manually transfer all of your data and potentially delete or abandon apps and files that weren’t supported on the new device. 

With Newline, all of the apps, files, and software that you were familiar with on your desktop, laptop, and former displays are compatible with the Newline display. There’s no more worrying about how much the product will uproot your current workflow. 

Love That It’s Not Picky (Multiple Connections)

Having options is never a bad thing, and with so many large format display companies to choose from, you want the most compatible match. Go with the one that isn’t picky about connectivity! Newline displays offer a plethora of connectivity options based on the device you have. 

Some of our product series, such as the RS+ Series, even have inputs on the front for easy access. Bring your laptop to a meeting and quickly connect in seconds. Having a product that is not picky when it comes to connectivity expands your options for peripheral accessory integration and prolonged future use.

This is important for team meetings and conference spaces where people from different departments and companies will bring their own devices to connect.

Love That It Recognizes You (Object Recognition)

Teamwork and collaboration are key in your daily work, and having an interactive display that truly supports that is crucial. Share the screen (at your discretion) with teammates to make annotations and markups without worry. Newline displays have object recognition that allows you to easily write with various writing utensils at once and use gestures (like your fist) to erase. It’s like Newline finishing your sentences…soulmates!

Object recognition makes a bigger impact than you may think. The flawless writing experience saves time and frustration from learning how to best interact with the display. This natural and easy-to-use device simply complements the great work you’re already doing at your company.

Love That It Comes with Benefits (Free Software, Support & Training)

We know that you may not fall in love with Newline this year, but at least keep the products in the running for “friends with benefits”. Newline products come with free software, support, and training to help you succeed. Who wouldn’t want those benefits?

Newline Cast and Newline Broadcast give you and your team additional options to share your screen. Cast wirelessly projects someone’s smaller screen like a laptop, phone, or tablet, while Broadcast shares the display screen to everyone else’s devices. These are great tools to leverage for remote teams and big rooms where people can’t easily see or access one shared device.

Newline Launch Control is perfect for the office environment that regularly hosts meetings in a space with a Newline display. Easily login, change settings and launch a meeting with 1-click. Save the awkward meeting startup by avoiding the cumbersome steps using Launch Control.

Newline Display Management Plus is a secure and remote portal for IT administrators to manage all the displays on their network. Admins can easily push updates, alerts, track, and change settings from one web portal for multiple displays.

Lastly, on top of all these benefits, Newline displays owners have the option to schedule free training sessions and request support from REAL technical support staff at no additional charge. It’s basically the cherry on top of this friendship sundae.

Join the 2 Million Users That Love Newline

Newline is loved by  2 million US users across businesses and schools because the products help them better create and collaborate with one another. Discover for yourself why Newline has the easiest-to-use products in the interactive flat panel market.

Ready to learn more? Schedule a demo with one of our team members.

Product updates and improvements are important to us at Newline Interactive. We listen to and understand the needs of our customers. With our unique business model, we can gather feedback and act on product updates faster than our competition. Recently, we rolled out some new updates to the NT Series. Users can now enjoy easier navigation and a more customized home screen experience. Read on for an overview of the highlights and most exciting advancements.

Home Screen & Menu Updates

The homepage menu has been updated to meet the requests from our customers! Users can now turn off the auto menu pop-up on the home screen (found in Home settings). This comes as an addition to the source autodetection setting which allows a complete bypass of the home screen to the OPS computer or connected device. And another highly requested feature, home screen wallpapers can finally be customized!

Sleep mode settings received a nice upgrade as well. There is now an Auto-Schedule On and Off option in the display settings. Sleep mode can be customized to simply put the display in hibernation mode or a complete power down. This is a great feature for organizations wanting to regulate power consumption, but still take advantage of the 24/7 rated commercial display.

Remote Updates

We understand that the previous NT Series remote was a bit hard to navigate some of the essential functions on your NT Series, so we’ve created an upgrade! The new, sleek remote has two pieces and is double-sided with a keyboard. The second piece is the RF tech-supported Wifi dongle that connects the remote keyboard to your NT display.

When unpacking the NT accessories for the first time, the Wifi dongle will be nestled under the battery slot on the right side of the remote keyboard side.

You’ll love the new integrated air mouse on the remote that works via the Wifi dongle on the Android and Windows settings and apps. That includes pre-installed apps such as Newline Cast and Broadcast and all your favorite PC apps on the OPS computer or connected laptop. New remotes have mouse mode, right-click, and left-click buttons. Just like a Bluetooth-connected keyboard and mouse, your included NT Series remote will help you seamlessly navigate the display.

Pro Tip: Plug the remote Wifi dongle into the USB port on the bottom right of your NT display for uninterrupted use and connectivity. This will leave all your left-side ports available for other connections.

Wifi Module

Each NT Series display comes with a fully modular Wifi adapter. For flexible installation options, it does not come pre-installed. The included Wifi module has three antennas, providing a strong connection for all your NT displays.

Getting the Update/Remote

If you’re already an NT Series owner, double-check that you are working on the latest firmware to take advantage of these great new features. We are now up to version 2.0.44 and you can double-check that in your device settings. If you need assistance in updating the firmware, simply contact Newline Tech Support.

For our customers with an old version of the NT remote and would like to upgrade, a simple request is all you need! Contact your Regional Sales Manager to assist you with getting this ordered. Don’t know who your manager is? Complete this form here.

Why Update NT Series Firmware to 2.0.44

This NT Series update allows easier navigation, seamless workflow, and overall usability. And with the included (FREE) remote control, we’re basically giving you a free mouse and keyboard for every display.

• Customizable home screen and logo option
• Power consumption management with auto schedule
• Complete navigation control: upgraded remote with mini keyboard and air mouse compatible with Android OS and Windows
• Modular Wifi adapter for strong connectivity
• Easy to install (OTA) firmware
• Swappable remote for established customers

Other NT Series Favorites

Newline’s NT Series gives you the power to host impeccable presentations, launch productive meetings, and display captivating standby graphics on a commercial-grade display. Leverage the 6-mic array for video conference meetings with your own camera or connected device. With its 24/7 power rating, this non-touch display works as hard as you do. Learn more about the NT Series here.

USB connectivity has seen rapid advancements over the years. It can be confusing when determining what your devices can actually do with this connectivity. This post is meant to share some of the basics around USB Type-C, what’s supported on Newline Flex (spoiler: everything), and how to check your device for compatibility. If you are looking for a slightly more technical explanation, read this article from our friends at B&H.

Not All USB Type-C Is Made Equally

You will find various types of USB Type-C but the actual functionality of the ports and cables vary. All the connectors include data transfer (at different speeds) and/or power (at varying wattages), and selectively audio, video, and touch. You can most easily determine the compatibility type on your device with one of these icons near the port:

With Thunderbolt, devices have full compatibility with speedy data transfer, audio, video, touch, and power delivery. This connectivity is found on all Apple laptops and Dell has standardized their later models with thunderbolt connectivity. More and more manufacturers are starting to adopt Thunderbolt connectivity. You will see a single thunderbolt icon on devices that have this connection.

Not all devices will have an easy-to-read icon near their port to indicate the level of USB Type-C connectivity. Be sure to check your device settings for a clear understanding of its capabilities and Newline Flex compatibility.

Across all levels of USB Type-C, you’ll see differences, so know what you’re getting when you purchase your cables and devices. For example, chargers have different amounts of power outputs, and the same is true for data transfer speeds.

Flex Supports All USB Type-C Capabilities

Newline Flex is a 27” desktop touch monitor with full touchback, an integrated camera and mic array, and 2.1 channel speakers. It lends itself to easy video conferencing, digital whiteboarding, document signing, annotating, and more. Its easy plug-and-play design via USB Type-C makes it compatible with numerous devices.

Flex supports all USB-C connection types, but the functionality you receive is dependent upon your non-Flex device. Flex supports data transfer, audio, video, touch, and power delivery with the appropriate connections.

The great thing about integrating Flex into your workflow is the backward compatibility. Despite the potential limitations of your connected device, Newline will be able to work with those capabilities. So, it’s important to double-check your device settings to get a clear understanding of what those are and if it aligns with your intentions for the Flex.

The optimal connection for Flex is Thunderbolt as it supports the data transfer, video, audio, touch, and power delivery we’ve been talking about. With this on your device, you will enjoy all the features Flex has to offer:

• Display mirroring (or extending) to your Flex screen for ease of use and improved workflow.
• Full audio and video playback on your Flex display and 2.1 channel forward-facing, integrated speakers.
• Full touchback, an industry first, that allows you to control your laptop’s display via P-CAP touch on the Flex.
• Up to 60W of power back to your device with the provided cable. You can work on your Flex while simultaneously charging your laptop with just one cable.

Check Your Devices

Reference this handy chart, which is also included in the Flex Quick Start Guide, to verify what your device can perform with the Newline Flex.

Spring is here: guaranteeing blooming plants, abundant rain, and a refreshing newness. This change in season ushers in the annual spring-cleaning frenzy too!

Take your spring cleaning to the next level with the Newline Flex. Well-worn home offices and business offices alike deserve a refresh. Flex will help you cut the clutter and complicated workflows. Read on for simple steps in organizing your workspace with this new digital tool.

Newline Flex is an all-in-one touch desktop monitor. It includes a 4K display, integrated camera, 8-mic array, 2.1 channel speakers, an active pen, and touch. It fulfills all your desktop technology needs to get your work done. Navigate video calls and host collaboration sessions without missing a beat. These features streamline the way you work, remotely and at the office. But have you thought about the benefits for your workspace visually?

Connectivity and Control

First, put away all your device cables except two. You will only need the provided USB Type-C and power cables for your Flex. Connect your Flex with the power cable. Then, connect it to your laptop via USB-C. These are the only cables and devices you need for full touchback, charging and video calls.

If your device does not have USB-C connectivity, no worries! You can still use the USB 3.0 or HDMI 2.0 connectors to use the Flex as an extended screen. The only extra cable needed is your charger for the laptop. To learn more details about connectivity, read this post.

Flex pairs down the number of cables needed to transfer data from one device to the next. Plus, with full touchback, you will have complete control of the laptop’s content. This is great for live annotations and casting your screen. Think of all the time saved and mental energy conserved with this workflow. Tasks limited by the mouse and keyboard are liberated with easy touch technology. Use one device to write on like a tablet, start up a meeting without added setup, and utilize all your desktop apps.

Cut the Peripherals

Next, put away your webcam, external mic, external speakers, document camera, and headphones. Replace these with high-quality hardware already integrated into the Flex. You will love the high-fidelity speakers and subwoofer paired with an 8-element mic array. Colleagues will appreciate the clear audio in meetings. You will appreciate less effort need to make a great impression.

With all this extra space, you can focus on the work at hand instead of the logistics of it all!

Cable Management

Now that we’ve established all necessary devices, it’s time for cable management. This is crucial in establishing an organized desk space when spring cleaning. Weave all your cables through the open slit on the Flex kickstand. Gather the cords behind the desk and zip tie as needed. Just like that, your space is expertly organized, aesthetically pleasing, and trip hazard-free.

Streamline Your Work

Now that you have streamlined your devices, your desk should be a lot less cluttered. What else can you do to optimize your spring cleaning?

• Tossing old papers
• File important documents
• Place office supplies in organizers
• Dust/sanitize all surfaces

Thanks to Flex, you can use your two devices for all aspects of work. With a clear desk and fresh mind, everyday tasks are now a breeze.

• Start video calls
• Annotate spreadsheet data
• Sign documents
• Use the whiteboard
• …and more!

Are you ready to join the Flex Gen? Order your own Newline Flex today and streamline your work this spring clean season.

Newline manufactures and sells collaborative interactive products for higher education. These products lessen the burden on higher education faculty to learn new tools while implementing synchronous and asynchronous learning with the Hyflex Course Model.

What is the Hyflex Course Model?

Introduced by Brian Beatty at the San Francisco State University, Hyflex is a course model developed for higher education that brings flexibility to the student experience. Students may choose to join class remotely or in-person with the expectation of receiving equitable instruction in both formats.

Classes are streamed live and can be recorded for later playback. Students can then choose whether to show up for the class in person or to join it online for each and every class meeting. Faculty may also benefit from this alternative course model. If the instructor is the one who must join the class meeting remotely (or shift between face-to-face and remote teaching as public health and personal circumstances change) the course infrastructure is already in place. It’s important to note that the goal of HyFlex is two make both the online and in-person experiences equal.

Basic Technology Requirements

High-Quality Camera & Mic

A good camera & mic are imperative in this course model. Students who are joining the class remotely should feel like they are a part of the conversation equally and this is achieved with the best visual and audio from the classroom. Newline offers quality camera & mic combo products to meet this need.

Videoconference UC Client

This is the primary platform that will integrate virtual instruction into the physical lecture space. Selecting a provider and plan that will support the appropriate number of participants, time allotment, session controls, and recording capabilities should be considered. Newline’s displays and desktop monitor integrate with all UC clients.

Virtual Engagement Platform

The crux of the Hyflex model plan lies within student engagement. Students are the key to the success of this course structure as it relates to consistent discussion and input throughout each class meeting. Providing an appropriate outlet, such as videoconference chat functions, allow for this engagement. Newline products support this feature.

The Newline Advantage

Newline takes the headache out of the deceivingly complex technology side of this process. Non-proprietary, easy-to-use panels integrate with any software faculty choose to use. The training and onboarding time is also shortened for all staff since our products (hardware and software) are intuitive and touch-enabled. Newline supports faculty and students alike with quality and easy-to-use technology that enhances the learning experience and ensures that students learning synchronously and asynchronously are both delivered the best content.

Leverage Newline Tech, Focus on Pedagogy & Structure

Institutions must organize various logistical aspects of this model in order to effectively deliver synchronous and asynchronous lessons:

• Overall course design
• Pedagogy centered around student-led engagement
• IT support team for technological execution
• Learning designers/classroom technology professionals to support faculty in virtual student engagement
• The technology

Newline’s Solutions: Meeting the Needs of the Hyflex Course Model

Interactivity & Engagement

With RS+ Series panels, faculty and students have a 4K display, clear speakers, Android-based OS, and touch technology to engage with the content on screen. With Newline Broadcast, the lecturer, or a moderator, may project the presenter screen to all of the student’s individual devices for equitable access to all. If faculty have the content on their personal devices, Newline Cast allows it to be projected on the large display for sharing and annotating. Students and classroom technology professionals can also share their screens, no matter their location. The X Series provides this same great experience, plus two integrated HD cameras and an on-board PC computer for more robust functionality.

For courses and campuses where network security is a top priority, our IP Series is a better fit. Still outfitted with touch technology, the IP is a great option for digital lesson delivery. Paired with an optional OPS on-board computer, the IP Series can deliver all the same Windows 10 PC functionality.

Lastly, if a great picture and audio are all you need but no touch technology—the NT Series is your go-to display. With exceptionally integrated speakers and mic, the Hyflex Model can still be delivered with the best quality to students.

Remote Teachers

Faculty do not have to lose interactivity or presentation quality when teaching remotely. Newline Flex is a touch desktop collaboration monitor that is simply ‘plug-and-play’ with a laptop. Faculty instantly have touch capability, Newline Cast options to the classroom display, and superb videoconferencing technology. An integrated 4K camera with tilt, quality 8-mic array, and 2.1 channel speakers eliminates any technical limitations for the instructor to deliver a great lesson. Remote and in-person students will see and hear clearly. They will also have the option to view live annotations on the screen with ease.

Multitasking & Management

Not only does the OPS on-board computer add PC functionality to any display, but it frees up personal devices for additional class management. Since student engagement and virtual chat functionality are important in the Hyflex Model, an OPS is a perfect integration for multitasking. The virtual chat can be displayed live during the class meeting on the display while the instructor broadcasts their laptop content. The reverse is also feasible, where the display is used to deliver the broader lesson and all participants view the virtual discussion from personal devices. Newline’s flexible product design accommodates the structure set by the faculty and staff.

World-Class Support

When relying on interactive technology for the hyflex course model, support and training are just as crucial in ensuring success. Thankfully, Newline provides world-class training and support at no additional cost to Newline customers. Training includes in-person, virtual, and on-demand options for end-users looking to get up to speed with their Newline displays.

Additionally, tech support is available by phone, email, and our website. Prompt response times and on-demand resources are also always available on our Online Knowledgebase.

“Company culture” is THE most important aspect to candidates I meet, but what does that mean? Culture is how the company functions, how employees behave, and the atmosphere. But what is a “good” culture?

Good culture means that the company is functioning like a well-oiled machine. It also means that all team members are being respectful, with a great attitude, and a positive work ethic. The atmosphere is one of urgency, timeliness, and organizational effectiveness. When these qualities are present, it makes for a fun and team-oriented environment!

It can be extremely difficult to find a company with a truly amazing culture. There are many companies that may put on a front but are entirely different once you join. If you’re looking to improve your company’s culture, technology is a quick and effective solution.

Improving communication is the #1 way to improve culture and a way to achieve that is with interactive technology. Newline displays can assist in reviewing documents, brainstorming, and virtual meetings. With tech assistance, synchronous and asynchronous collaboration can take place. Touch and accessories such as the stylus also allow hands-on collaboration that is “more flexible and versatile than a mouse and keyboard,” according to Tim Garber, Newline’s Technical Trainer.

By integrating interactive technology, you improve efficiency which can improve the company culture.

Communication

Communication improves with hands-on collaboration no matter location; in-person, phone call, video. Newline’s displays encourage team involvement and investment in projects or company goals. With the right tools, everyone is able to contribute which creates a positive work environment. People tend to contribute in various ways: auditory, visual, reading/writing, and kinesthetic.

Auditory

Auditory processing comes from listening to input, ideas, questions, and video audio. All Newline displays are virtual meeting-ready with built-in speakers. Easy software integration allows for people who work best by listening to revisit recorded meetings.

Visual

The visuals take in videos, images, and written content presented on the display. A clear 4K display, screencasting, and annotating contribute to this style. This helps visual people soak in the items in front of them.

Reading/Writing

Reading/writing processing types learn by doing just that. Viewing the display at any angle up to 178-degrees, employees have no problem with reading the 4k screen. Additionally, on-screen annotations and screencasting from personal devices give tons of writing options.

Kinesthetic

Kinesthetic processing happens through physical touch. The interactive display is perfect for this employee. They need access to the embedded whiteboard, annotation tools, and content sharing to engage in their work. 

Newline’s interactive displays can enhance all processing/learning types. Not only does this promote an active office, but a happy one.

Collaboration

Collaboration is important, as it fosters new ideas and builds internal relationships. Newline’s displays enhance collaboration with fast content sharing, real-time editing, and hands-on problem-solving. 

These features allow a group to collaborate efficiently compared to other methods like email or written reports. Fluid technology makes collaboration easy and frictionless for employees.

Efficiency

There is nothing worse than being in a meeting that could have been an email; we have all been there. Employees are happier and more productive when their time is best utilized. Technology, particularly interactivity, can help with meeting organization and timeliness.

Having the tools to exhibit and express ideas reduces meeting confusion. Teams save time with connecting devices, long discussions, and the list goes on. With efficient meetings, happy employees build overall team morale.

Morale

As we’ve discussed, technology integration builds morale in a few ways.  There are more efficient meetings, collaboration, better communication, and more. Combined, employees then start to feel appreciated, productive and valued. Positive work culture is achieved! 

Morale is the foundation of company culture. To build on it, you need to improve the above qualities in the organization. An investment in cutting-edge technology fast tracks an organization to high morale.

Core Newline Product Features for a Happy Work Culture

Non-Proprietary/Device Compatibility

No matter your office ecosystem, Newline’s displays work with any software. The non-proprietary design makes it easy to join video calls and work on any web application. Connected Android, Windows, Apple, and Chrome devices work as well. The options are limitless and scalable.

4K Display and Viewing Angles

Every Newline panel series has a 4K viewing display. That makes it easier to give vivid presentations and rely on a crisp visual experience.  A clear viewing angle is achievable from almost any position in a small or large meeting room. Gone are the days of squinting from the back of the room or obstructed views from the sides. 

Built-In Annotation Tools & Stylus

With a gesture, your Newline display can transform into the ultimate collaboration tool. Annotate over any screen and write with the built-in annotation tools. Newline displays come with advanced IR or P-CAP touch for seamless writing. With object recognition, writing is more intuitive and effortless.

Document Sharing

The collaboration doesn’t end at the panel, and neither does access to your notes. Document sharing is available through your Newline display. With quick access to the cloud service of your choice, send documents immediately.