In The News

QA Graphics Is Recognized As A Top Video Production Company On Designrush

February 23, 2021

Great news! We have been recognized as a top Video Production Company on DesignRush.

In 2019, people watched an average of 6.80 hours of video content online per week. For businesses to capitalize on this popular and growing medium, DesignRush selected the top production companies that brands can work with to produce high-quality video content. This is another great recognition for us since it’s coming from one of the most important sources in the industry, that selects those agencies that stand out for their experience, service quality, and reputation.

To learn more about DesignRush and our recognition, please click here.

QA Graphics Amends Its Energy Dashboards Specification

July 23, 2019

QA Graphics, creator of the award-winning Energy Efficiency Education Dashboards®, has revised its dashboard specification to serve clients in a better way. These changes help provide the necessary information contractors need to meet LEED® requirements. In addition, it also allows the building owner to share building efficiency information and illustrate the building’s performance. This is done through a series of integrated touchscreen pages that are available to help educate occupants on green building features.

Key benefits of specifying our energy dashboard:

» Integrated to help you work toward earning LEED® requirements and other sustainability accreditation and education agendas

» Integrates seamlessly and securely with the existing building automation system

» Presents building performance information in an easy-to-understand format for occupants

» Customizable to meet all building display needs

» No recurring fees or monthly service contracts

» Resides on-site at your building

» Created using HTML5

» Customer owns their data

» No internet connection required

» Ability to export data for reporting, comparing, commissioning, or validating purposes

To learn more about the Energy Efficiency Education Dashboard® or to request a specification, please contact 515.965.3403 or visit http://qageeed.com.

Top 25 Web Design Agencies of 2019

June 26, 2019

DesignRush’s Agency Listing section features the top local and global web design agencies. Some of the top website design companies from around the world include:

1. Aliph Tech

Technological advancements are more dynamic by now, and businesses must be developed in a manner where the process is rapid as well as equipped with emerging techs. Intelligence works on the Scrum methodology, which makes real-time customization possible so that their customers have the maximum input on project development and design.

Visit Aliph Tech at: https://www.aliph.io/

2. Bixa

Bixa offers customer research and audience insights that bring clarity to each company’s most critical business decisions. Clients can find out exactly what they need to know, from the people who matter most—their audience.

Visit Bixa at: http://bixaresearch.com/

3. Incline Marketing Group

Incline Marketing Group is a full-service marketing and advertising agency that offers everything clients need such as web design, social ads, promotional products, and print. They build custom approaches that are tailored specifically for every client in order to drive results. They strive to make a personable relationship so the client feels like they are their only client. Clients that are looking for an affordable way to increase their sales and get exceptional results, should look to Incline Marketing Group as their no. 1 choice.

Visit Incline Marketing Group at: https://inclinemarketing.com/

4. BragDeal Inc.

Within Vancouver, BragDeal Inc. is one of the leaders in web design, branding, marketing, and SEO solutions as well as business consulting and improvement. With over 40 years of combined staff experience in the design, web development, and marketing fields, they are proud to have a workflow system in place that is both efficient and reliable.

Visit BragDeal Inc. at: https://www.bragdeal.com/

5. Bunnyfoot

Bunnyfoot helps their clients deliver positive, profitable and superior experiences – online and off – by applying user-centered design (UCD) methods alongside a framework for incorporating usability and persuasive and emotional design.

Visit Bunnyfoot at: https://bunnyfoot.com/

6. Coza Web Design

Coza Web Design can help businesses in the following areas: Web Design, including Hosting, Search Engine Submissions, and custom WordPress themes; Graphic Design, including branding, stationery, posters, brochures, and more; and Digital Design, such as Email newsletter, Office stationery, Digital Adverts, and more.

Visit Coza Web Design at: https://www.coza-web.co.za/

7. Digital Burst Media

Digital Burst Media helps design businesses a responsive and modern website. From landscapers, tree surgeons, and electricians to shops, they can help any kind of business with their online presence. They also help with SEO, Social Media and Graphic design.

Visit Digital Burst Media at: https://www.digitalburstmedia.com/

8. Digitree

Digitree is a performance-driven digital agency that helps brands to develop targeted visibility and revenue across the MENA region. They specialize in Video production, 360 Marketing Campaigns, Social Media Campaigns/Management, Web/Mobile Development, Branding, and Digital Advertising/PR.

Visit Digitree at: http://www.digitreeinc.com/

9. Domino

Domino has been proudly interactive since 1996. They get captivated when their customers are narrating their businesses. They are those who are looking for the results as early as designing solutions. Those, who when facing a challenge, do not chicken out. They are composed of simple ingredients that they take care of every day, with passion and lightness.

Visit Domino at: https://www.domino.it/

10. Enhancers srl

Design thinkers that get their hands dirty: Enhancers is a full-cycle digital product agency at work since 2011 to generate innovation and foster digital transformation through design thinking, Lean UX and Agile production models applied with a hands-on attitude across all industries, from transportation to retail, finance and food & beverage, and with companies like IKEA, illy, UniCredit, Ducati, Azimut Yachts, TIM, Crédit Agricole, Museo Egizio.

Visit Enhancers srl at: https://enhancers.it/

11. Estudio Joplin

Estudio Joplin is a graphic design studio based in Buenos Aires, Argentina. They love branding and packaging. They’ve worked for brands like Royal Canin, Quilmes, Budweiser, Brahma, BGH and others. Their hope is to provide quality designs, with a sharp look at details.

Visit Estudio Joplin at: https://estudiojoplin.com.ar/

12. Flex5

Want to work with entrepreneurs who have acquired thousands of customers, crushed revenue goals, and taken brands to the next level? The Flex5 Team has helped companies scale beyond their expectations by generating millions of dollars in revenue, helping them raise capital via their unrivaled network.

Visit Flex5 at: https://www.flex5.co/

13. GCMD

GCMD believes in providing their clients with the best experience and final product so they reach their business goals. Yes, they have to make a profit at the end of the day, but to them, it’s important to know they did the right thing by their clients. GCMD looks forward to learning about each business and developing a long-term relationship with them.

Visit GCMD at: https://www.gcmd.agency/

14. Get The Clicks

Get The Clicks offers web solutions to fit the needs of any business. Whether they are starting a new endeavor or an established company that needs a boost, Get The Clicks has proven strategies that will help take clients to the next level. Their team of experts is passionate about client success.

Visit Get The Clicks at: https://www.gettheclicks.com/

15. Kuno Creative

Kuno Creative is an award-winning inbound marketing agency. For nearly 20 years, they’ve been a trusted partner to mid- and large-sized companies to capture and convert qualified leads through innovative digital marketing strategies. Their in-house team works to create customized digital experiences that resonate with each audience and keep them coming back for more.

Visit Kuno Creative at: https://www.kunocreative.com/

16. PBB-design studio

PBB-design studio is not only engaged in the development of websites since 2005. They also offer customers a variety of services that ensure the creation of a first-class resource for your company. One of the main goals of the site is making a profit. Their sites are a tool that will work stably and actively contribute to the growth of each business. They are aware of all the trends and innovations.

Visit PBB-design studio at: https://pbb.lviv.ua/

17. Perfect Leap Technology Inc.

Perfect Leap™ was founded in early 2017 by a 12-year technology veteran and a group of young developers who met while volunteering their shared passion for computing at a local non-profit. As a hybrid cloud solutions provider, Perfect Leap™ offers a unique combination of hosting, managed IT services, website design, SEO and top-notch computer support, all under one roof.

Visit Perfect Leap Technology at: https://www.perfectleap.com/

18. PROGMATIQ – web design and web development company

PROGMATIQ is a small agency located in Poland, Rzeszów. They mainly focus on developing websites for purpose-driven coaches and consultants to help them build their brand online. Another service that they offer is SEO and digital marketing – especially chatbot marketing.

Visit PROGMATIQ at: https://progmatiq.com/

19. QA Graphics

QA Graphics was founded in 2006 by Dan McCarty. Located in Ankeny, Iowa, their company provides custom marketing solutions such as touchscreen applications, web development, interactive sales tool, animated videos, floor plan graphics, and 3D design. Over the last decade, the business has become an industry leader, expanding into a full-service design firm. All of their work is completed in-house, and their team of experts is comprised of graphic designers, 3D designers, developers, programmers, architects, and mechanical engineers – all to ensure we meet the diverse needs of their clients.

Visit QA Graphics at: https://www.qag3d.com/ or learn more at: https://www.qagraphics.com/web/

20. Roud Studio

Roud Studio plans, creates and grows digital products. In collaboration with their partners, they plan the strategy of the future product leader. Their team creates content, design and the main idea of the brand. They build and grow modern brands by expressing them clearly, authentically and in unexpected ways.

Visit Roud Studio at: https://www.roudstudio.com/

21. Simplico

Simplico is a digital agency in Croatia specialized in branding, web design, UX/UI design, and advertising. They deliver tailor-made digital strategies and consultancy services for brands, startups, and companies. As a fully client-oriented team, they will provide our best ‘know-how’ while guiding each project to success!

Visit Simplico at: https://simplico.hr/

22. The Provato Group

Whether a company is looking simply to raise brand awareness, ready to take the next step in moving sales and marketing activity on and around their website or need to engage customers in a more meaningful way, The Provato Group has the experience and expertise to get them there.

Visit The Provato Group at: https://www.theprovatogroup.com/

23. the tree

The tree is a fresh agency built on the experience of its team. They’re a heady mix of young marketers and experienced business people, with more than 30 years in marketing, advertising and content services. Their many services are bound by unique creativity and modern campaign strategies that yield the greatest results.

Visit the tree at: https://thisisthetree.com/

24. The Webery Studio

The Webery Studio is a group of creatives, problem-solvers, and entrepreneurs based in Melbourne, Australia. They started their journey in 2016 with a goal to re-define what the web should be, with a mission to change the current view of digital platforms from just another business necessity to digital platforms that become business critical tools, driving change and driving business growth.

Visit The Webery Studio at: https://thewebery.com.au/

25. WittyCookie

WittyCookie is an award-winning web design studio based in Vancouver. While most believe that great websites are available only to the largest of corporations, they believe that even the smallest business deserves a beautiful website.

Visit WittyCookie at: https://www.wittycookie.ca/

Brands can view the best web design firms by price, portfolios, reviews, leadership, expertise, rankings and
more on DesignRush.

About DesignRush: DesignRush.com is a B2B marketplace connecting brands with agencies.

DesignRush features the top agencies around the world, including the best Digital Agencies, Logo Design, Branding, Digital Marketing, Website Design, eCommerce Web Design Companies, and more.

See original Article posted on PRWeb: HERE

A Custom Approach to System Visualization & Control

November 7, 2018

Download the PDF article HERE.
View it online from Mechanical Business Digital Issue HERE (pg 112-113) or below.

As we continue to delve further into these technology-driven times, it’s becoming apparent that building owners, managers and real estate developers recognize the value of having detailed floor plan graphics.

Whether it’s an office, a house, or an entire complex, being able to visualize a space is the first step in bringing it to life, and modern graphic technology is making it easier to help clients visualize the systems being designed or used in their buildings.

Once built, these graphics also allow for building users and servicing contractors to see the spaces and systems in ways that simply were not possible just a short time ago.

A Single-Screen Dashboard

One of the highlights regarding the advancements in the BAS graphic industry is that any employee with basic knowledge of mechanical systems will be able to easily access all of the graphics on the site. This way, end users as well as service technicians can monitor the entire site from a single location, saving them time and minimizing trips to the jobsite.

From blueprints to virtual spaces

When it comes to graphic design, most BAS systems are still a little behind the times with visual systems maps. Some advancements have been made within control system software, but it’s nowhere near the level of available technology in the design community.

Along with everything else, the design industry has experienced a technological shift. Gone are the days when paper blueprints and rough sketches served as the starting point for the next big thing.

These high-resolution images provide more intricate details than ever before. Thanks to 3D renderings, people now have the power to walk through their floor plan in a virtual space, bringing their ideas to reality.

“Our clients view this shift as a more user-friendly approach because they don’t have to walk through a jobsite and create an abstract visual. Instead, they can easily access the images right from their phone or computer,” says Jordan Cashatt, QA Graphics’ account manager.

Creating a floor plan

The starting point to bringing a virtual view of a building to life is a floor plan (or plans) created using mechanical drawings and CAD drawings. These should pinpoint the location of ductwork and lighting, and any other systems that are to be included in the user interface (UI).

This will allow room temperatures, alarms, CO2 or humidity measurements, for example, to be mapped, allowing the end user to have easier control. Making it possible to monitor complicated systems with ease and quickly locating problem areas is a key performance metric.

The process of creating a floor plan is simple: the company sends in a PDF, scanned image or a CAD file, then they determine the level of detail that will be needed for the end users, and these end users can range from the building service contractors who might need to have the ability to change system parameters through the user interface, to public visitors who may just want to see the inner workings of the building and its environmental profile.

As such, the map may include such things as windows, built-ins, railings or furnishings, as well as core building systems.

Once the graphics company receives the necessary files, tailored floor plans are created to meet the client’s exact specifications. If deviations are made to the controls or alarms after the graphics are completed, changes will need to take place to get the most up-to-date plan.

Mechanical contractors and engineering firms may be involved if there is a need to map out ductwork on the floor plans, or if the building owner feels a collaboration is necessary.

Many businesses also request a standard template to use on future projects. This gives them a navigation starting point that remains consistent throughout the user interface, and gives the operator of the building a familiar UI experience to steer and operate systems via the graphics. This can be especially helpful for clients who own or operate multiple buildings, or who wish to have separate dashboards to keep certain systems isolated from each other.

Using images to gain insights

Graphics come in handy for mechanical professionals, but they are especially helpful to building operators and managers who may be less skilled mechanically or knowledgeable about the inner workings of the mechanical equipment in their buildings.

Accurate visuals that present a clear image with a standardized process allows the operator to effectively manage the BAS systems and focus on core competencies. It can also help them identify areas that should be included in upcoming maintenance, or for troubleshooting more immediate service needs.

This can save your company time and money, thus creating a higher return on investment for you, or possibly allowing you to help your customers manage their operating and maintenance budgets, which are always under pressure, to be used as efficiently as possible.

Having an accurate, and intuitive, map of the building and its systems can also make it easier to adjust system parameters, controls and alarms when necessary.

Target Projects for Customized Graphics Interfaces

When it comes to identifying the type of customer who may need a custom solution for their building, the rule of thumb is the bigger the project, the more likely it will need customized graphics. When large campuses or corporations are forced to upgrade an entire building automation system, however, some issues can arise.

The most common includes security problems with old software that needs to be updated. Getting the software programmed properly to control the HVAC and lighting systems is a crucial first step.

Small projects such as individual office spaces typically don’t have these issues because they take far less time to complete. When we’re talking about hundreds of buildings — and the system integration company has limited resources—the graphics and UI may suffer as a result. Back-end programming can become a nightmare and countlesshours can be spent retracing steps to troubleshoot problems.

Working with experienced, creative professionals who have navigated the integration of visuals and system controls can help ensure that the UI and graphics will come together and work as intended. Done properly, the system integrators’ employees can spend their time doing control work and let graphic design experts do the floor plan and system graphics. And working with experienced designers also ensures that the design is up-to-date and follows navigation standards.

Help occupants understand & improve their energy use

November 5, 2018

Help occupants understand, compare and improve their energy use with QA Graphics’ enhanced efficiency dashboard

by Brianna Crandall — November 2, 2018 — QA Graphics, creator of the award-winning Energy Efficiency Education Dashboard (EEED) used to educate building occupants and visitors about green building features and efficiency practices, recently announced its new partnership with Infinite Automation Systemssoftware design and development group. Together, both companies will unveil the QA Gateway data logger, an embedded data acquisition system powered by Infinite Automation Systems’ Mango software platform.

Energy Efficiency Education Dashboard

The EEED web application is used by schools, universities, businesses, healthcare facilities, data centers and more to help occupants understand their energy consumption, creating a sense of personal responsibility to make more sustainable decisions. The EEED enhances occupant and visitor awareness by providing easy-to-understand displays of building performance data, demonstrations of sustainable building features, energy efficiency tips, and other interactive educational features.

QA Graphics’s award-winning Energy Efficiency Education Dashboard (EEED) is used to educate building occupants and visitors about green building features and efficiency practices. Image courtesy QA Graphics

Customizable features can include company and building information, an area attractions map, advertising space, sponsor/donor recognition, educational demos, weather conditions, building floor plans, an efficiency leaderboard, a campus view map, environmental tips and interactive quizzes.

The EEED also lets you compare building performance data among buildings and/or floors, whether for more effective facilities management (FM) or friendly competition. Energy dashboards communicate with the building automation system (BAS) or other devices to display the data in a way that’s easy to understand. It also helps acquire points toward LEED certification.

QA Gateway

The new QA Gateway is a standalone data logger that allows you to collect data in real time from multi-source protocols accurately and efficiently. The data logger is the backend component to the energy dashboard, powered by Infinite Automation Systems’ Mango ES; it serves as the middleware between your BAS and the EEED.

The new QA Gateway, powered by Infinite Automation Systems’ Mango ES, is a standalone data logger between your BAS and the EEED that allows you to collect data in real time from multi-source protocols. Image courtesy QA Graphics

To display real-time data, the QA Gateway data logger integrates with existing automation systems and does not require custom software or an internet connection, thereby eliminating security risks, says QA Graphics. The data acquisition system is designed to be easily deployed in any network configuration, conforming to information technology (IT) security policies, and it allows you to view collected data through its easy-to-use, web-based interface.

QA Gateway key features include:

Points are brought in the CMS to be configured for easier management
Ability to pull more points in
Data storage capable of housing millions of historical points
Ability to read multiple protocols
No internet connection required
Ownership of the EEED v6 allows the client to control and maintain the building within their IT protocols
Client owns their data

To learn more about the Energy Efficiency Education Dashboard (EEED) and the QA Gateway data logger, visit the QA Graphics website.

This posts’ original contents came from FMLink article written on QA Graphics’ Energy Dashboard.