The Metro Toronto Convention Centre (MTCC) continues to be a leader in the industry's technology arena with the implementation of large format (46”) commercial-grade LCD panel display units across its vast site.

Using its extensive wired and wireless networks, the MTCC has created an advanced digital signage and information system for its clients and event attendees.

The state-of-the-art system features the latest in NEC Display Solutions' high-resolution LCD displays, along with graphical and content management software from Omnivex Corporation.

The initial installation includes 19 NEC large-screen LCD's at the facility, and the MTCC plans to add more over time, including mobile signs to accommodate specific events.

“We really wanted a flexible, cutting edge system that would grow with our needs,” said Bill McDonald, the MTCC's Director of Technology. “Our objective is to continually reinvest in our facility and our technology, and to grow our position in the marketplace. With this exciting next generation technology, we have taken our ability to communicate with our customers to a whole new level. Providing superior customer service is of paramount importance to us – it's what keeps people coming back to our facility.”

With more than 2 million square feet of space requiring coverage, the MTCC chose this innovative solution because it is dynamic and interactive, he added. It will enable the Centre's staff to provide not only more complete but also constantly changing information to visitors.

The panels have the ability to display details about the facility, events, services and local attractions, using a dramatic combination of text, graphics and high-definition quality video.

The delivery system is also fully automated, McDonald explained. Integrated with the Centre's existing event scheduling system database the system updates itself in “real time” throughout the day. Further, the system enables the MTCC to deliver unique, audience-specific or location-specific information to different floors and buildings.

The screens' large size and sophisticated LCD technology also provide excellent image quality and resolution for any type of content the MTCC or its clients may choose to display, including live TV feeds, advertising and other video.

These features ensure that the screens will be easily visible by large groups of people, even across the biggest of the Centre's many meeting spaces, according to Bruno Pupo, NEC's Regional Manager for Canada.

The Omnivex software aspects of the system provide the MTCC with an easy management solution that reduces the total cost of ownership, according to Omnivex President Jeff Collard.

“Our unique software application allows the MTCC to operate its own network and gives the Centre greater flexibility, lower operating costs and much faster response and turnaround times.”

Dennis Lyte, National Corporate Sales Manager for Trans-Lux Corp., the master integrator that installed the whole system for the MTCC, said that the technology will be highly appealing to both visitors and clients alike.

“The LCD panels can show razor sharp, full living colour video in a very large format -- they almost look like real life,” Lyte said. “Most convention centres are not so advanced and Trans-Lux is very proud of the sophisticated work we've done with the MTCC here.”

LED displays are the standard form of communication for wayfinding and event details in most large public facilities, but are quite static compared to the new LCD panels. LED is monochrome, limited to basic text in one language, and typically requires text to be abbreviated, often creating an unusual glossary of terms.

The digital upgrade definitely puts the MTCC on the leading edge among convention centres, added McDonald. “It really puts customers and their needs first, and that's what the MTCC is all about.”