This episode of The AV Life dives into UCLA’s groundbreaking AV as a Platform initiative. The hosts welcome special guest Chi Hang Lo, who shares details about the next-generation AV automation system being piloted on campus. The discussion explores how AV can function as a scalable, modular platform that ties together technology, facilities, security, and student experiences across the university. From scheduling and signage to safety and student experience, UCLA’s pilot is laying the foundation for the next decade of AV in higher education.

Topics Discussed:

• The concept of AV as a Platform vs. traditional AV systems
• Scalability and modular design for thousands of rooms
• Cloud-first technology (AWS, Kubernetes, custom “Bruin Cloud”)
• Integrating facilities, security, scheduling, and digital signage
• Student and faculty experience improvements
• Training strategies for diverse users (ages 5 to 95)
• Building cross-department buy-in and collaboration
• Leadership support and vision at UCLA
• Broader applications beyond higher ed (corporate, multi-campus, global)
• Reflections on pilots: data collection, champions vs. cross-section faculty
• The future of AV in higher education and beyond

The AV Life is a Higher Ed AV Media production. More at higheredav.com.

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