How to Get the Most out of Your AV Budget

It’s easy to think that something is better just because it’s more expensive. And if you are comparing, say, a Kia to a Lamborghini, that might be true. But in a lot of cases, it isn’t. In fact, the cheap seats at the ballpark usually have the best view. When it comes to audiovisual solutions, expensive doesn’t always mean better either. As you are designing new AV systems, understanding what you should spend your money on—and where you can cut corners—can ensure you get the functionality you need without exceeding your budget.

3 PLACES YOU CAN FIND AV SAVINGS

1. Don’t pay for unnecessary features and functionality. The latest, greatest, shiniest new AV trend isn’t always the right or best solution. You might be paying for features you don’t need and won’t use. You can save money by choosing a less flashy tool that does just what you need. And a qualified AV engineer can help you tell the difference. “Our engineering staff will select equipment based upon the needs of the application,” said Brent Stanphill, Senior Enterprise Account Manager at Level 3. “If there are options, we will give professional recommendations that could save costs while still accomplishing your goals.”
2. Take a phased approach. Instead of trying to get all the new AV technology and tools you need in one fell swoop, consider implementing them in phases. By making the most essential purchases first, you spread out costs and get the chance to see how your tools are working and what gaps remain.
3. Forget the fancy furniture. AV furniture has come a long way since the days of pressed wood and veneers. There is no need to spend extra money on designer furniture to hold your AV hardware. In most cases, regular AV furniture will do the trick and leave you with money left over for purchases that will directly improve the user experience.

3 PLACES TO SPEND BIG ON AV

1. A good plan and solid design. It’s impossible to choose the right tools and technologies if you don’t know what you need those tools and technologies to do. Spending the time and money to assess your technology needs is imperative to choosing tools that can successfully meet them. A qualified AV integrator can not only help you identify those needs, but also help ensure that your physical spaces are designed to optimize technology use. “Level 3 Engineering will design a room based upon the needs of the client and their budget,” said Stanphill. “The key to a successful deployment is capturing all the technology requirements based on the business’s work flow and making solutions easy to use, reliable, and affordable.”
2. Quality audio. “Never skimp on audio,” said Jeff Bethke, Level 3’s Director of Engineering. “It’s the main thing people complain about, and when it’s bad, meetings can be worthless.” Good audio, on the other hand, will facilitate efficient and effective communication even for remote participants. It helps keep meetings efficient, worthwhile, and productive.
3. Commercial-grade components. Consumer-grade AV equipment is certainly cheaper than the consumer-grade equivalent, but it simply can’t meet the needs of corporate AV implementations. Commercial-grade AV is great for your home theater, but chances are you wouldn’t offer to host a board meeting there. Your corporate conference rooms need a more robust, reliable, and durable AV solution.

HOW TO GET STARTED

To get inspiration for your small meeting room AV upgrade or implementation, contact one of our AV integrators or engineers to start making a plan that will put your money in the right place. Reach out to us here or click the chatbox below to connect instantly. We look forward to working with you.