A digital transformation for the Chamber of representatives
The Chamber of Representatives
The Chamber of Representatives, the heart of Belgian democracy, underwent a thorough modernization. In collaboration with system integrator EMG, we implemented a new conference system in the Chamber of Representatives.
The existing infrastructure posed a growing risk to the continuity of parliamentary decision-making. Control was spread across two locations, which hampered efficient operation. In addition, the microphones, cameras, and control systems no longer met today's requirements. An update was crucial to avoid jeopardizing day-to-day operations.
An integrated digital conference system
Together with EMG as the main contractor and partners Bosch and MVI, we implemented a completely new conference system, consisting of customized hardware and software solutions.
New high-quality hardware
The Bosch Dicentis conference system was chosen. This system offers seamless integration with the parliamentary infrastructure and was built in a modular way, enabling the following functionalities, among others:
- Simultaneous translation via an integrated language selection module
- Digital voting procedures with a user-friendly voting module
- NFC-based identification for smooth registration
In addition, audiovisual control has been centralized, allowing technicians to work more efficiently. The technicians, who play an apolitical role, operate the microphones and cameras, but thanks to automation, much of the control now takes place in the background. An automated camera system ensures correct framing and the new microphones guarantee high-quality audio. In addition, integrated displays in the iconic alcoves now show voting results, agenda items, and speaking times.
“We used to work with a board with lights to display votes.» says Jens De Kocker, Project Management Officer at Play AV. “With the new displays, voting results, agenda items, and speaking times are now displayed clearly and uniformly, which also contributes to the aesthetics of the chamber.”
Customized software by MVI
To optimally support the functioning of parliament, important innovations were also implemented in terms of software:
- Automated voting procedures for faster and more accurate voting results
- Bilingual software thanks to a customised add-on from MVI
- Optimal redundancy and security with dual networks, servers and audio channels
A challenging but successful collaboration
Thanks to the joint efforts of Play AV, EMG, Bosch, and MVI, the House of Representatives now has a modern and reliable audiovisual infrastructure. Parliamentary meetings are more efficient, voting procedures have been optimized, and the technology is ready for the future.
“The collaboration with Play AV and their partners was essential to completing this complex project within the strict deadline of one month,” says Daniel Luyten, Broadcast Project Engineer at EMG. “Thanks to the new technology, parliamentary voting rounds now run smoothly, securely, and reliably.”
Do you have any questions or would you like a personalized audit of your project? Contact us without obligation at info@playav.be or use the contact form below.
