Effectively designing and integrating commercial audio visual systems into conference rooms and auditoriums can present a headache for even the most technologically savvy IT teams. Conflicts combining new and existing technology, relying on outdated equipment, and inefficient management over AV systems are just a few causes of performance problems.

Poor installation and management of AV systems can negatively affect both your organization’s reputation and bottom line. Disconnected conference rooms and malfunctioning technology can mean missed meetings and delayed decision making, resulting in significant loss of revenue for businesses.

What should your organization monitor in order to avoid a poorly performing AV system? Here are six questions to ask to gauge the performance of your commercial audio visual system.

1. What are you trying to accomplish?

First, be clear on what you’re using your AV system to achieve:

• Do you want to communicate company information easily and effectively?
• Do you want to conduct vendor presentations?
• Do you want to use your system to enable video conferencing with board members or remote employees from around the world?
• Do you want to display your design teams’ high quality renderings?

Trying to fit a square peg in a round hole can cause performance issues. Certain AV systems can manage multiple tasks well, but if it is only designed to facilitate meetings, it could lack the capability to effectively display high resolution files. Look for an AV solution that will meet the specific needs of your organization.

2. Is your system user friendly?

If your commercial AV system is difficult to use or doesn’t adapt well to different devices, there’s a chance your organization is not getting the best value for your investment.

In today’s hyperconnected world, your colleagues and clients want the ability to connect their personal technology like laptops, tablets and smartphones to AV systems. In a user friendly system, BYOD (bring your own device), connections should be simple and intuitive.

Imagine moving seamlessly from a team meeting to a presentation, quickly linking devices to the auditorium’s AV system without fumbling for multiple cords and connections. This capability saves your organization valuable time without sacrificing quality.

3. Does your system operate on a wireless connection?

To many, “user friendly” means “wireless.” We have become so used to connecting our personal tablets and smartphones everywhere from the office to the supermarket, it’s easy to forget how complicated it can be to facilitate a wireless environment. The same concept is true for commercial AV systems.

A lot of work is required behind the scenes to make wireless connectivity a reality. Custom programming and integration are just two steps in the process.

If you desire wireless connectivity for your commercial AV system, consider working with an AV integration partner with the engineering and installation talent necessary to enhance the system’s performance.

4. When was the last time you upgraded your system’s technology?

You may have seen a presentation system in a modern organization that appeared better suited for use with a Kodak Carousel slide projector than a MacBook. Don’t let your organization fall in the same trap by failing to upgrade its technology.

If you’re not getting maximum performance from your system, it might be time to think about investing in new technology or servicing what you currently use. Consider the existing issues with the system and revisit your goals. Speaking with an experienced AV integrator about your concerns can help narrow down what’s needed to maximize your budget and improve performance.

5. Do you know who to go to for support?

When your presentation or meeting technology isn’t operating effectively, it’s important to know who to contact. An organization located in a small building with just one or two conference rooms might be able to operate with just a single point person. However, if your organization operates tens or even hundreds of conference rooms within a corporate building, there might not be the team needed to effectively manage your AV systems.

If your organization falls in this category, commercial AV services can be a solution. Working with a partner offers flexibility and access to highly trained and motivated professionals who understand your needs and use their expertise to manage repairs and keep your systems functioning efficiently.

6. Are you overwhelmed with recurring issues?

Confusion over software and hardware are common with internally managed commercial AV systems. Solutions such as remote management software can help alleviate this pressure, allowing organizations to become more efficient by managing more rooms with less people.

Incorporating remote management delivers quick return on investment by reducing overhead and keeping conference rooms online. Just consider the costs associated with a canceled meeting due to an unavailable conference room or technology glitch that could otherwise be avoided by effectively managing those systems. Little details like leaving equipment on after use can cause long-term issues, but remote monitoring can quickly recognize and alleviate those potential problems.

At IGI, we understand the complex nature of commercial AV systems. Our team provides individualized solutions and extended support, eliminating guess work from your AV systems. We boast more than 15 years’ experience in the advanced visualization industry managing all levels of AV integration projects.

Contact us to learn more about how your company can realize the operational value of a professionally optimized commercial AV system.