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Controlling Gather Virtual HQ with Stream Deck

Published on July 7, 2024

# Controlling Gather Virtual HQ with Stream Deck

Virtual offices have become the new norm for remote teams, and Gather (opens new window) has emerged as a popular choice for creating immersive digital workspaces. But let's face it, navigating these virtual environments can be a bit clunky at times. Enter MuteDeck's integration with the Elgato Stream Deck – your secret weapon for smooth sailing in the Gather seas.

# Setting Up Your Stream Deck for Gather

First things first, you'll need to grab MuteDeck (opens new window) and install it on your machine. Once that's done, it's time to get your Stream Deck ready for action.

  1. Open up the Elgato Marketplace (opens new window) and look for the MuteDeck plugin
  2. Install it faster than you can say "virtual water cooler chat"

Now that you've got the basics set up, let's dive into the good stuff – customizing your Stream Deck to become the ultimate Gather control center.

# Custom Actions for Active Application

MuteDeck's Custom Actions (opens new window) feature is where the magic happens. Here's how to set up controls for your microphone, camera, status, and those all-important dance moves:

  1. In MuteDeck, open the settings by clicking the settings icon
  2. Click the "Add Action" button at the bottom
    1. Set the dropdown to "Active Application"
    2. In the middle input box, give the action a recognizable name (like "gather-mute")
    3. Click the last input box to set a shortcut for the action (see below for a shortcut list)
  3. In the Stream Deck software, drag a new "Custom Action" onto a button
  4. On the properties of the button, choose your desired action from the dropdown menu

custom actions setup

# Shortcuts at Your Fingertips

While you're decking out your Stream Deck (pun intended), here's a handy reference for Gather shortcuts:

Action Shortcut (Mac) Shortcut (Windows & Linux)
Raise Hand H H
Turn Microphone On/Off ⌘ + Shift + A Ctrl + Shift + A
Turn Camera On/Off ⌘ + Shift + V Ctrl + Shift + V
Change Status to Available ⌘ + O Ctrl + O
Change Status to Busy ⌘ + I Ctrl + I
Change Status to Do Not Disturb / Quiet Mode ⌘ + U Ctrl + U
Dance Z Z
Throw Confetti F F
Enter Ghost Mode G G
Walk To Your Desk ⌘ + D Ctrl + D
Show My Location ⌘ + L Ctrl + L
Interact with Objects X X
Close Interaction Esc Esc

Feel free to add any or all of these as custom actions, so you can control them with your fingertips. The confetti and dance shortcuts are mandatory, though. 🙃

# Maximizing Your Virtual Presence

With your Stream Deck now configured, you're ready to take your Gather game to the next level. Here are some ways to make the most of your newfound control:

  1. Quick Mutes: Use your mute button liberally during meetings to cut out background noise when you're not speaking.
  2. Camera Control: Easily switch your camera on and off between calls or when you need a quick break from being on screen.
  3. Status Signaling: Keep your team informed of your availability without breaking your concentration.
  4. Mood Boosters: Don't underestimate the power of a well-timed dance or confetti throw to lift team spirits.

# Conclusion

As remote work continues to evolve, tools like MuteDeck and Stream Deck are paving the way for more intuitive and enjoyable virtual experiences. By streamlining your Gather controls, you're not just saving time – you're enhancing your entire remote work experience.

Ready to level up your virtual office game? Explore MuteDeck today and transform your Stream Deck into the ultimate Gather control center. With just a few taps, you'll be dancing, confetti-throwing, and collaborating like a virtual office pro. Your colleagues won't know what hit them (except maybe some digital confetti).

Try MuteDeck →