Keeping Control Systems Simple: The Three-Click Rule
The most powerful control systems aren't always the most complex. After a decade of designing these systems, I've learned one crucial lesson: choose what fits, not what's flashiest. Whether it's for operators running shows or technical teams maintaining equipment, simplicity wins.
One rule I've always lived by: users should never be more than three clicks away from what they need. It’s inspired by Apple's design philosophy, but it applies perfectly to control systems.
Today's market offers plenty of options - from Medialon and Q-SYS to Crestron and ISAAC. Each is powerful, but which one is right for your project? It comes down to three key questions:
How many devices are involved?
How many areas or rooms need control?
Is this for a boardroom with Microsoft Teams integration, or are we building a park-wide system to monitor and control an entire theme park?
Supporting the People Behind the Scenes
Here's something that might surprise you - we don't start with the guest experience. While creatives focus on the magic, we focus on the people running the show.
A control system succeeds when operators can use it easily, technicians can fix issues quickly, and everything keeps running smoothly.
Keeping Things Running
Every minute of downtime costs money. By focusing on the needs of our operators and technical teams, we keep systems running efficiently and minimise disruptions. When the people behind the scenes have the right tools, everyone wins.
Want to learn more about efficient control system design? Let's talk.
