The Challenge
In mid-2014, the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium embarked on a project with Peerless-AV® to revamp the facility’s signage. A well-known, non-profit organization welcoming approximately 2.2 million guests annually, the zoo was relying on static wayfinding signage and a handful of flatscreen TVs showcasing videos via the zoo’s internal digital content network.
In hopes of enhancing visitor experience, the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium sought out a rugged, reliable, and weatherproof solution to keep guests informed on zoo and aquarium updates, events, and severe weather warnings. With 10,000 animals representing 600 species spread across the facility’s six regions – Australia and the Islands, Congo Expedition, Shores, Asia Quest, North America, and Heart of Africa – preservation of the natural habitat that each region emulates was key.
This conservation-minded organization also hoped to reduce the use of printed materials to assist in keeping the environment green. Located in Powell, Ohio, the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium faces a multitude of weather challenges, including snow, ice, moisture, bright sun and humidity. Open 363 days of the year, the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium remains a visitor attraction even during winter months with its annual holiday lights display. As such, the zoo and aquarium needed a solution offering clarity and outdoor capabilities.
The Solution - Peerless-AV® Xtreme™ Displays
With Peerless-AV®’s track record in the industry, the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium turned to the company for its Xtreme™ Displays. The Display’s patented design completely seals all components, including cable entry, against outdoor conditions such as rain, snow, sleet, dust, insects, and even pressure washing. With outstanding picture clarity and accessibility, the Xtreme™ Displays provide ease of serviceability. With no fans or filters, the cost of maintenance is greatly reduced as well.
Strategically located where they will be most visible to visitors, the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium decided to install displays at the front gate entrance of the zoo, in the special events area, in guest services, as well as at the entrance of each region. Peerless-AV®’s Xtreme™ Displays allow the facility to reach its visitors more clearly and efficiently.
The Results
Installation of the 39 Xtreme™ Displays began in May 2014 and will be ongoing throughout the end of the year. With over a quarter of the displays currently installed, the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium has been able to further enhance its dynamic property. The zoo and aquarium holds numerous after-hours events as well as interactive programs throughout its business hours. With the Xtreme™ Displays, visitors are consistently provided with updated and informative content. Utilizing its internal digital content network, the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium’s staff has found it easier to connect with visitors and share relevant and interesting information via the Xtreme™ Displays.
With its initial success, the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium plans to continue providing an enhanced experience for its visitors with weather warnings and ride information shared via additional Peerless-AV® digital signage solutions.
"As a dynamic property with shows, talks, and events occurring year round, we needed a solution that would help us further promote these activities, while maintaining the true essence and habitat of the zoo and aquarium," said Gregg Oosterbaan, VP, Technology, Columbus Zoo and Aquarium. "With Peerless-AV®, we were able to install a non-intrusive solution that required very little maintenance on our end, and afforded us the ability to share information in an exciting way. We can’t wait to continue the installation and add even more signage."
A graduate of DeVry Institute of Technology, Doug has been in the Technology industry since 1976 and actively oversees Fearing’s daily operations. Along with his wife, Lois, and three others, Doug started Fearing’s in a 600 square-foot facility in Portage, Wisconsin. In the 25 years since, the company has grown to over 30 employees with offices in Madison and Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Doug likes to say he’s a “TV Technician with a dream� going back to his history with the family’s original business-Fearing’s TV and Appliance.
Doug values time with family, watersports, hiking, snowshoeing and skiing. In addition to being a devoted member of his church, Doug serves as Board President for Kinship Mentoring of Columbia County, Board member of Schools for Haiti and Scripture Chair of the Gideons-Portage camp.
A graduate of MATC, Lois oversees Fearing’s daily book keeping along with various HR responsibilities.
Along with Doug, Lois is deeply connected to community outreach, serving as a Board member and Fundraising Committee Chairperson for Kinship Mentoring of Columbia County. She also serves on the Schools for Haiti Fundraising committee. In addition, Lois’ ongoing passion and commitment to provide care for the elderly comes from her 10-year history of working in a Reedsburg, Wisconsin Nursing home.
Lois enjoys singing, hiking, sunny days on the pontoon, and spending time with her 4 grandchildren.
Ehren drives Fearing’s technology by continually seeking out trends to enhance capabilities while supporting Sales, Engineering and Installation teams. Throughout his years with Fearing’s, Ehren’s talent and vision have joined forces to create a wide variety of projects and strategic solutions that exceed expectation.
Ehren loves music, family time, movies, nature, sustainability efforts and electric vehicles.
With 10 years with Fearing’s and over twice that long in the industry, Ben continues to lead, coordinate, and develop the Commercial AV team.
By consistently delivering an outstanding experience and outcome, Ben contributes to the Fearing’s legacy of long-lasting partnerships that truly make a difference. Whatever the Commercial AV need may be, Ben and team deliver at the highest level.
Ben is an avid fisherman and photographer. He enjoys coaching his sons and other youth.
Chris has been with Fearing’s for 20 years and in the industry for over 2 decades. As a Certified leader in Sales Acceleration and trained in EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating Systems), Chris successfully utilizes his skills to lead the Fearing’s Salesforce. Chris and team are motivated and driven to develop new client partnerships while continuing to reinforce loyal long-term relationships with ongoing Service excellence.
Married for 19 years with 3 children, Chris enjoys skiing, hiking, fishing, boating, hunting, camping and golf. He’s also been actively involved as a Youth Football and Softball coach for his family and others.
