When Simple Isn’t So Simple With Your AV Solutions

When you’re working to create a top-notch audio visual (AV) system design, the end result should make life easier – and better – for those using it. But all too often, what is positioned as “simple” can quickly become overly complicated and confusing. If you have been frustrated by AV system design challenges, you are definitely not alone. Here are some of the audio visual best practices used by great audio visual consultants to keep your project simple, smooth, and rewarding. 

1. Early expertise. 

One of the biggest mistakes we see is really a timing issue. Building owners, architects, and project managers get together with other key stakeholders and plan out a design before setting it in motion. But, they do not bring in audio video design consultants until much later in the process. If AV consultants are not consulted until it is time for the actual equipment to be selected and installed, you are setting your project up for unnecessary complexity and challenges. 

Instead, bring in AV professionals early (we are talking the pre-planning stages). AV systems often require certain architectural and design considerations that are best accounted for in the early phase of planning. When you collaborate before execution begins, you ensure all components of your AV systems will be installed properly and set up for optimal functionality and performance. 

2. Future planning. 

Another one of the top audio visual best practices is to think ahead. First, take time to discuss where the facility will be in a year’s time, five years’ time, and ten years’ time. Is the owner planning to keep business operations as they are, or do they have big ideas for transforming their services or space? Will they be in their current building for the foreseeable future, or are they working toward a move to a new campus? Even businesses that do not intend to move, innovate, or navigate changes will eventually do some or all. One or all of those outcomes is inevitable, so the more you can anticipate possible future changes, the better you can design your AV system for success now – and down the road. 

This is also the time to consider obsolescence. There is always new technology emerging, and new ways to achieve your AV goals, so you need to make sure you have a strong foundation. When you work with an experienced AV partner, you will learn which systems are most likely to last, as well as are flexible enough to accommodate new tech as it becomes available and/or necessary. This saves a lot of money and even more headaches over time.

3. Focus on the end-user. 

Finally, but most importantly of all, are you planning your AV systems with your end-user in mind? As you design your solutions and your space, make sure you’re constantly envisioning how the employees at the facility will use the equipment and how their patients or residents will benefit from it. 

In order to be a true success, your AV systems must be selected and configured to improve the experience of all those who will interact with them. Again, planning for this as early as possible will help you make sure you reach that goal.