4 Lessons from an AV integrator you should know before your next audiovisual or security system project.

It can be one of the most frustrating parts of new construction or remodeling projects. The new school or office is finally finished and beautiful, but the technology doesn’t work exactly as expected.

For most schools, businesses, and government organizations that rely heavily on their technology, having systems that work exactly as they intend is often one of the most important parts of the project.

Working directly with an AV integrator can help ensure that the right technology is selected for the right project, each and every time. ICS, a subsidiary of CTL Engineering, works with architects and directly with owners to find out clients’ exact needs and ensure the final audiovisual and security systems reflect those needs.

What is an AV integrator?

An AV (audiovisual) integrator specializes in designing, installing, and maintaining audiovisual systems for various settings, such as corporate boardrooms, conference rooms, classrooms, auditoriums, theaters, houses of worship, and other public spaces.

AV integrators are experts in integrating audio, video, lighting, IP networks and control systems to create immersive and engaging experiences for their clients. They work with various types of audiovisual equipment, including projectors, displays, microphones, speakers, cameras, video conferencing systems, and more.

AV integrators typically work closely with architects, engineers, contractors, and end-users to understand their needs, recommend the right equipment and solutions, and provide ongoing support and maintenance services. They are also responsible for ensuring that the audiovisual systems they install are reliable, easy to use, and can be seamlessly integrated into the client’s existing infrastructure.

So why work directly with AV integrator?

1. Ensure your project is not over-designed or under-designed.

Of course, a major consideration for every new system is cost. If your system is over-designed, you’ll pay for features and technology that you’ll never use. Alternatively, if the person designing your system doesn’t really understand what you need – it can be under-designed and leave out essential equipment.

Often, if the client is relating their needs to an architect that doesn’t really understand the technology, a poor choice can be made. By the time they’ve realized a part of the system – the video switcher, for example – doesn’t meet their needs it can be too late to exchange it for the right system.

2. Access to a variety of technology vendors

Since 2020, massive disruptions in the supply chain have caused delays in equipment that still continue well into 2023. ICS works individually with each client to set appropriate expectations, redesign around equipment that is unavailable and avoid vendors with particularly long wait times.

Often, ICS is able to help clients switch a new supplier without any price increase and help source products and materials that are either in stock or will be replenished quickly.

3. Don’t pay separately for design

Because many construction projects begin with design and are bid to an entirely separate set of companies, many new construction projects follow the same model with AV and security systems. Unfortunately, instead of helping clients get the lowest price, this model can often lead to unnecessary frustration.

Once the architect or designers create the specifications, companies must bid on those exact specifications. Too often, because there wasn’t enough communication with the original designer, the system doesn’t end up being what the client thought they were getting. By working directly with an AV integrator, clients usually have much more back-and-forth discussions about how they plan to use the system, what they want out of the system, and options from different vendors. The end result is technology that works better for their exact needs.

4. Form a long-term relationship

Installing a new AV or security system is only one piece of the puzzle. Most systems need maintenance and turnover within your organization may also mean staff occasionally need to be retrained.

ICS regularly revisits clients such as airports, fire stations, or justice centers to remind and re-teach them how to use their important technology equipment, but even businesses and schools can benefit. Often, users will get frustrated with their audiovisual or security systems without realizing they aren’t getting the software support they need, there is a general lack of user knowledge, or connections are starting to fail.

By working directly with an AV integrator, companies form a relationship when the system is installed that gives them a person to turn to if there are problems down the line.

How to choose an integrator for your next project.

ICS designs, installs, and maintains AV systems, AV control systems, video conferencing, virtual meetings, digital signage, audio-visual control rooms, and security solutions throughout Columbus, Cincinnati, and the Midwest.

For architects or owners looking for an AV integrator to join their next project, start by talking to your general contractor or electrical engineer. AV integrators often work closely with both, and they can give you references to firms they like.

Additionally, be cautious of firms that make their prices look artificially low by downgrading the actual equipment. For instance, storing footage from video security is very expensive. Even if you specify that security footage must be stored for 30 days, there is a big difference in the cost of video that is one frame per second versus four frames per second. The information not captured, could be the difference in your investigation.

Benefits of Working with an AV Integrator for Reliable Audiovisual and Security Systems

Working with an AV integrator can ensure that the right technology is selected for a project, avoid supply chain delays, and provide ongoing support. It’s important to choose a reputable firm and avoid those that use low-quality equipment. Overall, an AV integrator can provide reliable, easy-to-use, and seamless audiovisual and security systems that meet a client’s exact needs.