The Simply Smarter Blog

The introduction of 4K projectors that deliver incredibly high resolution and superior color accuracy has given people the power to bring their imaginations to life like never before. Artists, museums, schools and businesses are leveraging the high detail, true color rendition and cinema-quality video of projectors to reimagine spaces all over the world in order to educate, attract and engage new customers or to uplift and inspire people in new and innovative ways. Simply put, projection technology is paving the way to new possibilities.

Video walls have found homes in many different types of settings, including corporate offices, retail stores, transportation hubs and sports venues, as well as command and control facilities. When deciding which type of video wall installation is appropriate for your customers’ needs, a basic decision is determining which of the two basic types of technologies — LCD or dvLED —  is best for the specific application. LCD and dvLED displays have very different features and benefits. Here's a quick primer on both.

As healthcare organizations move towards value-based reimbursement models, the patient experience is now taking a higher priority. Hospitals have made significant investments in improving scheduling, bill pay and other administrative tasks. But to maximize value — and differentiate themselves from their competitors — many healthcare providers are looking toward new ways to engage patients and visitors and, in doing so, improve patient outcomes. Here are four unique ways that hospitals are currently using high-impact visuals to engage patients, wow visitors and assist clinical staff in providing the best possible patient care. 

The demand for efficient and cost-effective printing solutions is critical in today's world. Multifunction printers (MFPs) have become necessary for offices, schools and institutions worldwide. But how do you determine which MFP is superior? Are all copiers the same and is the notion of a breakdown or inevitable paper jam an unavoidable reality? In this article, we aim to debunk some common misconceptions regarding MFPs, shedding light on the facts to help users make informed decisions and optimize their usage.

Although COVID is far in the rear view, many companies are navigating the ongoing challenge of creating a cohesive and collaborative environment for both in-person and remote workers. AV and IT managers are the unsung heroes in this scenario, responsible for implementing technology that enhances collaboration, engagement, and team cohesion. And they've got to make sure everyone's experience, whether they're at home or in the office, feels seamless.

In the heart of Norcross, GA, Sluss + Padgett LLC (S+P), a prominent commercial HVAC general contractor, is a great example of a company that has flourished amid this challenge. With a nationwide workforce exceeding 100 employees, the company wanted to unite its dispersed teams while modernizing its training facilities. This is the story of how Sluss + Padgett LLC embraced technology to propel its operations forward.

Cybercrime in 2024 is off to a historic start, as we just saw one of the largest data breaches ever, compromising billions of records and exposing confidential data. This most recent attack shows that bad actors are targeting not only large enterprises or government organizations but also smaller businesses and individuals. It’s a sobering reminder to be conscious about what security measures you currently have in place for your organization, where you can improve, and what to do if your data is leaked in a future “Mother of All Breaches” type of attack.

Educators and school support staff already have a tough enough job as it is. Add outdated and malfunctioning technology to the mix, and you have an academic perfect storm. This is what faced the Macon County School District, located in southwestern North Carolina near the Appalachian Trail. They were dealing with outdated printers and copiers and needed to modernize quickly in order to spend less time worrying about tech and more time focusing on their 4,400 students. As such, they turned to Sharp for updated and innovative solutions to their printing environment needs.

Integrating technology into the classroom is a great way to ensure that students receive a well-rounded education that prepares them not just for the digital challenges of tomorrow, but also for the diverse world they will navigate. If you need help in figuring out how exactly to incorporate the right technology to provide a truly enriching educational experience for our students, you’re in luck. Outlined below are four examples of how technology can be seamlessly folded into the classroom – and some research to back it up!

A collaboration display is an interactive touch display that allows the user to interact with the content displayed on it. Collaboration displays offer a platform for staff to present relevant information and updates, facilitating more efficient communication. By visually showcasing patient medication schedules, discharge details and care plans, collaboration displays contribute to lowering the potential for medical errors. Patients can easily access staff names, enabling them to address inquiries or issues promptly. Ultimately, the utilization of collaboration displays can help patient communication and engagement. Here are four benefits to using collaboration displays in a hospital.

One of the best precautions organizations can take to establish security best practices is to promote proper data management among its employees. Data is generated with every individual’s click, search and interaction online, leaving a trail of data behind while navigating various websites and services. This trail of data, known as "digital exhaust," can leave the individual, and consequently their employer, vulnerable to data breaches and privacy violations if not properly managed and secured. 

As companies increasingly rely on digital platforms for operations, marketing and customer engagement, they inadvertently generate vast amounts of data. The misuse of this sensitive information not only risks compromising customer trust but also opens the door to potential legal and financial repercussions. For businesses, the challenge lies in harnessing the power of digital exhaust for strategic advantage and safeguarding against its pitfalls. Let's dive into the concept of digital exhaust, its implications, and how to manage it effectively.

Are you looking to lease office equipment? Have you questioned whether to buy or lease? In an ever evolving, unpredictable world of modern technology, buying and owning office equipment yields more risk, and less flexibility, convenience, and long-term cost savings than ever before. Leasing, however, offers convenient, flexible, and scalable buying plans, a popular choice among mindful consumers. In this smart guide to leasing, our industry experts share 3 important rules.

Drawing upon the wealth of technological expertise and insights garnered during a 50-year journey in the document solutions business, Sharp’s BP-70C/60C/50C series of digital full-color multifunction printers (MFPs) encapsulate the core concept of Sharp – to become an indispensable partner in supporting our customers' businesses.

This blog features interview responses from Sharp Corporation’s Mr. Furusawa of Product Planning, Mr. Hirano and Taguchi of Technology, and Mr. Tsutsui of Design, to gain deeper insights into the vision, technology, and design philosophy that have shaped the BP-70C/60C/50C series. 

Cybersecurity remains top of mind for businesses as our world becomes more digitized. A recent report from IBM discovered that on average globally, the cost of a data breach was $4.4 million. Cyber-attacks continue to rise, so we sat down with Tony Roessler, Managed Network Services National Manager at Sharp, to share insights on common attacks and best practices that you can take to best protect yourself and your business from a potential breach.

Have you ever been involved in a conversation with your IT department and thought, "What does that even mean?" Well, you are not alone. Understanding the myriad of security acronyms can be a daunting task, and with the security landscape's constant evolution, even experienced IT professionals occasionally encounter unfamiliar terminology. Whether you are seeking clarity on the latest trends, exploring critical concepts, or simply looking to expand your security vocabulary, you've arrived at the right destination. Below, you will find five frequently used security terms and acronyms and the definitions associated with each.

Multifunctional devices and printers are essential tools for professional use, allowing us to bring digital content into the physical realm. But when it comes to choosing the right printer, it is not always clear which one is right for your organization’s needs. Two common types of printers and multifunctional devices used in printing are A3 and A4. In this blog, we will explore the difference between A3 and A4 printers to help you make an informed decision when selecting the right printer for your business’ needs.

Digital signage solutions can enhance any organization by offering the ability to communicate in a modern, efficient way with your audience. These devices are gaining in popularity and traction, with nearly 60% of businesses planning to invest in digital signage within the next two years. This is because these devices allow for real-time updates and announcements that can be shared seamlessly and can improve overall engagement. Read on to learn a few tips for deploying digital signage in your business and how to make the most of this technology.

“Is your teenager cyber-smart?” That question can sound scary, but what does it even mean? As parents or guardians, guiding and empowering your teens to navigate the digital world is crucial. By fostering open communication, educating them about online threats and implementing cybersecurity best practices, you can help keep your teens cyber secure. Encourage teens to participate in offline activities, hobbies and social interactions to develop a well-rounded and healthy lifestyle.

Small and medium businesses (SMBs) are frequent targets of cyberattacks. While large firms maintain dedicated cybersecurity departments, budget constraints can hinder small businesses from doing the same. Thus, small businesses should empower themselves to handle cybersecurity whenever possible.

Though we always recommend partnering with a managed service provider (MSP) to help augment internal resources, here are a few tips that you can use to help bolster your defense against cyberattacks.

Digital displays have become essential communication tools in corporate offices, retail stores, school campuses, event spaces, and other settings because they enhance collaboration, boost commerce, and improve the transmission of marketing messages and other information. In appropriate applications, larger displays — typically measuring 70 inches or more diagonally — provide crucial additional benefits beyond those offered by smaller-sized displays. Let’s examine how larger displays can help you achieve your communication and brand goals.

K-12 educators and school administrators are on a never-ending quest to equip students with the tools to thrive in higher education and the working world – and it’s no small feat! Lesson plans are carefully crafted, teaching techniques are meticulously studied, and extracurricular activities are thoroughly organized. Amidst these efforts, one lever often goes unnoticed—the choice of laptops that students utilize day in and day out.

While Chromebooks have gained popularity in schools across the country, it's crucial to pause and consider if they truly prepare students for the Windows based systems that they will inevitably use in college and beyond. Every choice an educator makes aims to develop skills that align with the evolving demands of their careers. That's why I propose we take a closer look at a more suitable alternative.

It can be intimidating to choose an interactive display that's right for your organization and knowing what to look for is key to making the right choice.

AQUOS BOARD® collaboration display systems are much more than your typical interactive whiteboards. These displays offer smooth and effortless communication along with high-tech features that keep audiences engaged and involved whether in the classroom or boardroom.

Legal professionals operate in a detail-oriented environment, where effective collaboration and document management are key to efficiency, security, and client service. To keep up with the evolving demands of the legal landscape, law firms are turning to modern technologies that streamline workflows, strengthen information security, and foster seamless communication. In this blog post, we’ll review the evidence proving that collaboration tools, interactive whiteboards, and copiers/printers are 3 superpowers that help alleviate common challenges, reduce billable leakage, and enhance productivity in the legal sector.

Effective communication is vital to the work of doctors, nurses and their staff - and it’s not exactly overlooked by patients, either. Any visit to a doctor’s office, clinic, urgent care center or hospital should be as stress-free as possible, and keeping patients informed goes a long way in accomplishing that. One effective tool for healthcare professionals to consider is implementing modern devices to enhance decision-making, collaboration and the overall patient experience.

One healthcare organization in New York resolved to innovate communication within their offices. They looked to their technology partners to bring interactive display systems into their facility to improve visibility, navigation and overall engagement.

When it comes to reliable and versatile laptops, Sharp’s laptop division, Dynabook, has established itself as a prominent brand, offering a diverse range of products to cater to the varying needs of professionals, schools and business users. In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at three laptop series from Sharp’s Dynabook brand: Tecra, Portégé, and Satellite Pro. Each series brings its own unique features and benefits, ensuring that users can find the perfect device to suit their specific requirements.

Take a closer look at how to create appealing, effective content for digital signage for your store.

Roughly six in ten U.S. organizations (approximately 61%) have experienced data loss due to unsecure printing. Modern multi-functional printers (MFPs) offer a wide array of advanced productivity features to keep employees engaged and connect them to various business applications. Given their strategic importance in today’s workplace, how can we ensure MFPs have proper security measures in place so that they avoid becoming weak points that open doors to bad actors? Following are some steps Sharp has taken to address this.

Classrooms have completely evolved over the past 25+ years.  We all remember the days of messy chalk on blackboards and overhead projectors.  Those big, bulky pieces of machinery wheeled in on a cart in the middle of the classroom.  Who doesn’t remember the thrill of being allowed to write on the transparency with a dry-erase marker and seeing the results projected on the wall? Fortunately, there has been an evolution in how educators can display their lessons.

You might only see the action on the playing field, but behind the scenes, it takes a lot of technology to support college athletics. Today, schools and their athletes need to stay ahead of the competition more than ever by incorporating collaborative digital tools for everything from personalized training apps to video capabilities for reviewing plays and archival footage. It’s no exception for Army Athletics of West Point, the oldest of the five American service academies educating cadets for commissioning into the United States Army.

Often overlooked as a gateway into your network, your copier is the most unsuspecting way cybercriminals gain access to your company information. Printer security is often lower on the security agenda than say email or cloud platforms. Which is why with the recent launch of our new BP line of copiers, we decided to layer on the ultimate cybersecurity tools to keep customers one step ahead.

We are migrating to a digital era, but that hasn’t stopped educators from relying on their school’s multifunction printer (MFP) to quickly produce 30 copies of their students’ homework as they scarf down food on their lunch break. Despite an increase in digital technologies being incorporated into the classroom and at home, educators are still printing many documents each school year, from homework and assignments to study guides, worksheets and tests.

We can look at the data to determine why print is important from usage alone. But there are underlying benefits to having an MFP in the library, faculty lounge or administrative office. Let’s take a closer look.