A smooth workflow thanks to detailed project coordination
May to November 2015 – implementation phase
A total of 31 displays will be installed in the Champagne Bar, the Whiskey Lounge, the individual niches, the reception area and in the restrooms and these will round off the exclusive atmosphere with dynamic content. The hardware required for implementation is a combination of large format displays from NEC and individually configured players from axxiv. The software suite which controls the content comes from YCD Multimedia.
Screens
The various screens – in sizes from 32 to 55” – are recessed either horizontally or vertically into the niches especially constructed for the purpose in walls or furniture units, in order to create a harmonious overall impression. To ensure seamless service at all times during the lounge opening hours, only hardware designed for permanent 24/7 operation is used.
axxiv media player
An axxiv media player, based on the Intel NUC platform, is hidden behind each individual display and this delivers animated content. To control the video walls, each comprising three screens, powerful axxiv workstations are used.
YCD cnario Digitial Signage Suite
The high performance YCD cnario Digital Signage Suite, which is already used by the SWISS Internal Communication department and already delivers content to the majority of the screens at Zurich Airport, is the ideal platform for the desired solution. Decisive factors for the SWISS Lounge project include the centralised control of the overall content workflow, individual content modification using the web-based MediaManager, the highest level of reliability during playback, automatic monitoring of operations and remote management for the complete solution.
IT network
The first challenge arises following an exact analysis of the existing infrastructure. The displays are intended to be connected to the existing IT network at the SWISS Headquarters in Kloten. A server and the complete network are housed here and are managed by Reist Telecom GmbH. The Swiss Lounge, on the other hand, is connected to the airport’s network. So that the remote connection and operations monitoring can be handled by Littlebit IT Services it is also necessary to create a connection between Littlebit and the SWISS Lounge.
Connecting all of these different networks together requires a great deal of technical flair. Following successful configuration, SWISS is able to independently prepare and change the content to be displayed on the screens. The 24/7 monitoring service guarantees faultless operation and rapid reaction in the event of an emergency.
Performing the complete installation and integration within an extremely short period of time proved to be a challenging task, particularly in view of the many security aspects at the airport. But, thanks to well thought-out planning and effective resource management, it was still possible to master this and complete the project on time.
