The Global Supply Chain is Back—But Should You Still Plan for AV Delays?
The headlines say the global supply chain is recovering. Cargo ships are moving again, warehouse shelves are no longer bare, and lead times on just about everything—from semiconductors to server racks—are shrinking back to pre-pandemic norms.
But here’s the truth: in the AV world, “normal” still isn’t simple—and assuming all is well can cost you valuable time, budget, and momentum.
So yes, the global supply chain is stabilizing. But should you still plan for AV delays? Absolutely. And here’s why.
What We Learned From the Last Few Years
AV, like many tech-heavy industries, took a major hit during the global supply chain crisis. What started as chip shortages quickly expanded into a cascade of delays across displays, processors, mounts, cabling, and even rack screws.
Here’s what stood out the most:
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Lead times became unpredictable. What used to take weeks turned into months (and in some cases, more than a year).
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Costs fluctuated with limited visibility or notice.
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Project schedules stalled, affecting everything from buildouts to grand openings.
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Supply substitutions often led to inconsistent systems and post-installation headaches.
But perhaps the most important lesson was this: organizations that planned ahead—and worked with experienced integrators—navigated the chaos far more effectively than those who didn’t.
Why Planning Still Matters in 2024 (and Beyond)
Even as inventory levels normalize, the AV industry isn’t immune to the complexities of global manufacturing, geopolitical shifts, and rising demand. Just because products are more available now doesn’t mean supply is guaranteed.
Here's what still affects timelines:
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Popular products go fast. High-demand items like DVLED panels, PTZ cameras, and conferencing kits often sell out quickly—even when back in stock.
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Custom-built hardware still has long lead times. Specialty gear and large-scale systems often require more manufacturing time, especially for enterprise or education projects.
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Vendor inconsistencies persist. Not all manufacturers recovered equally, and some have shifted product roadmaps or end-of-lifed key models.
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Transportation and logistics are volatile. From shipping slowdowns to customs backlogs, the supply chain still has weak links.
Bottom line? If your project is 6–12 months out, now’s the time to lock in your technology strategy and get in the queue.
The Integrator Advantage: Building in Lead Time, Not Surprises
When you work with an experienced AV integrator you don’t just get a shopping list of parts—you get a strategic partner who understands how to navigate supply chain uncertainties.
Here’s how we help mitigate AV delays before they happen:
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Early design and consultation. We collaborate early to spec solutions that align with your timeline and budget—without sacrificing performance.
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Multiple sourcing options. We maintain relationships with a wide range of manufacturers and distributors, giving us flexibility when one vendor is short on stock.
- Transparent communication. Delays happen. The difference is, we tell you when and why—then pivot with a plan, not a shrug.
- Proactive procurement and staging. We order early, store gear securely, and stage systems in-house (hello, AV9000 standards), so we’re ready to deploy when the site is ready—not waiting on parts.
- Pre-engineered systems and standardization. Whenever possible, we recommend proven designs that minimize surprises and are easier to source across locations.
Plan Today, Stay Ahead Tomorrow
If the last few years taught us anything, it’s that early planning isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. Whether you're building a new space, refreshing old systems, or scaling across locations, AV delays can cost you more than just time—they can stall training, miss launches, and disrupt hybrid work continuity.
Working with the right integrator early in the process gives you a clear roadmap, purchasing power, and peace of mind that you won’t be left scrambling when timelines tighten.
Let’s Get Ahead of It—Together
At Level 3 Audiovisual, we help organizations across industries design and deploy AV solutions that are built for performance—and planned for reality. From product lead time forecasting to in-house staging and global deployment through the PSNI Global Alliance, we bring clarity and control to every step of the process.
Planning a project for Q3 or Q4? Let’s talk now. Your future self (and your schedule) will thank you.
Reach out today for a free design review or consultation.
