How do you see the ISE market faring in the EMEA region in 2010?
Market conditions remain difficult in some areas but business is undoubtedly picking up again. We are certainly seeing marked improvement in certain key areas. Generally, I expect this trend to continue over the course of 2010, but we should expect that some sectors will recover faster than others.
What do you think will be the key external factors affecting the market this year?
The after-effects of recession will continue to have a dampening effect on major infrastructure projects. On the other hand, greater emphasis on efficiency and lower environmental impact is providing good opportunities for growth. As a company, we are responding strongly to this trend across all business sectors – indeed, the results of this development work can be seen in many of the products we are showing at ISE this year.
What do you think will be the ‘star’ technologies of 2010?
3D looks likely to become more important in both professional and domestic applications. We are already seeing a big push from the entertainment industry for 3D, but there are also some very interesting things happening on the professional side too.
I think we will see greater use of touchscreen technology; greater use of ‘natural’ interfaces and a greater variety in the way users interact with technology – for example, slate or tablet PCs, and smart phones. I think it is likely we will also start to see greater use of interactivity with out-of-home displays.
Digital signage will continue to grow and mature – but there will be a greater demand for solutions rather than just the individual components.
What do you think is the best thing about the ISE show?
ISE is really at the heart of the European AV installation business; as the crossroads where so many businesses intersect, it always provides a vital indication of the direction the business will take in the next 12 months.
