Next to the direct benefits for the customers, the data gathered also has advantages for Barco. The (anonymous) data sets of all parameters, from fan speeds to error messages, provides many insights about the performance of video walls in the field. Using this information, Barco can detect potential points of failure. It allows Barco to tweak and further improve the quality of its products, but also to become proactive in its maintenance efforts. For example, it gives information about critical component temperatures that will lead to panel failure – allowing to plan a maintenance visit before this happens.
Due to the efficiencies inherent in cloud-enabled services, Barco can now offer partners and end customers a discount over standard support contracts if they are willing to step in. Obviously, these efficiencies are only possible if the systems stay connected through the term of the contract. The result is a clear win-win situation, where customers benefit from remote management and a discount, and Barco receives a vast amount of anonymous information for further analysis and product optimization.