The Customer:
Avocent works with many industries that are learning how digital signage networks can
be used to increase sales. These applications, popular in retail settings, are beginning to
take root in the services sector. And, iPort Media, Inc. is one of the companies leading
the way.
iPort has a unique, private narrowcasting network designed to help eye care professionals
increase their per-patient sales. The company transmits advertising directly to eye
care professionals via networked computers, flat-screen plasma televisions (in waiting
rooms) and LCD screens (in exam rooms). iPort delivers its message at the point of
sale, increasing the purchase of premium products such as lenses, coatings, and
designer frames.
The Situation:
Each optometry office is equipped with high-speed Internet to connect to iPort’s server,
where they have access to various information including news, sports and weather
updates. iPort can also provide specialized content to offices, although most comes directly
from leading vendors. For example, the Johnson & Johnson
Transitions
commercial
(where lenses that change from light to dark are demonstrated) is a popular clip in
the iPort database.
iPort has installed their systems in the offices of eye care professionals nationwide for
several years. iPort serves 50 locations and plans to add approximately 30 to 40 locations
per month over the next few years. There are 37,000 eye care provider locations in the U.S.
alone that tap into vision-related retail sales. It was a $16 billion business in 2003.
The Problem:
With the rapid increase in location installs, iPort began looking for methods to reduce
installation time and costs. iPort’s initial installations consisted of running a complex array
of CAT 5 copper wires to receivers, computers and video systems. In several cases, iPort had
wiring issues with building materials or configurations that made it impractical to run CAT
5 wire throughout the facility.
Case Study
Avocent helps iPort see the value
of wireless video extension
The Power of Being There
®
“Avocent wireless technology
has afforded us an enormous
convenience that enables us to
reduce installation time,
save on wiring costs and
increase the number of
facilities we can support.”
Brian Greenwood
Director of Information Technology
iPort Media, Inc.
