A Smarter Way to Build Technology-Enabled Workspaces
When Delta Dental set out to open their new office in Scottsdale, AZ, they didn’t just want audiovisual systems installed—they wanted a strategic partner who could help them envision, design, and deliver a solution that truly worked for their teams. Instead of jumping into bids or rushed decisions, they took a different route: starting with a Design Retainer agreement.
This forward-thinking approach allowed Delta Dental to explore their needs, align with their business goals, and co-create a clear roadmap for their AV systems—before a single cable was pulled.
Why Delta Dental Chose a Design Retainer
When an AV project begins with an RFP but no defined design, it often leads to poor outcomes. The absence of strategic planning can create gaps in scope, misaligned expectations, and inefficient execution. Delta Dental chose a smarter path by engaging Level 3 Audiovisual through a Design Retainer—bringing structure, alignment, and purpose to the project from the very beginning:
- Low-Cost, High-Value Expertise – For a fixed upfront fee, Delta Dental gained direct access to Level 3 Audiovisual's solution architects and technology strategists to help define the scope, systems, and standards they truly needed.
- Early Trade Coordination – Because planning started before design and build, Level 3 Audiovisual was able to coordinate early with architects, electrical, and data teams to align infrastructure with AV plans.
- Outcome-Driven Planning – Room-by-room narratives were developed based on how each space would actually be used. This ensured every decision was made with the end user in mind.
From Strategy to Reality: The Design-Build Advantage
Once the technology roadmap was set, Level 3 Audiovisual transitioned from planning to implementation—seamlessly.
Key solutions for this project included:
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- Boardroom with dual 98" and 86" displays, ceiling microphones, and Microsoft Teams integration.
- Executive Offices equipped for professional video conferencing.
- Conference Rooms featuring Poly video bars, HDMI connectivity, and simple touch panel controls.
- Open Offices enhanced with Biamp sound masking for privacy and comfort.
- Reception & Café areas upgraded with digital signage and ambient audio.
The design-build model allowed Level 3 Audiovisual to manage all phases of the project (strategy, design, coordination, and installation) under one roof. This streamlined communication, reduced misalignment between teams, and kept the project moving on schedule.
Level 3 Audiovisual offered guidance and support from the very start of the process. This included sending an account specialist to survey our current AV equipment, listen to our needs, and make suggestions that were within scope of our project. A technical design team that planned the schematics and equipment layout that would optimize the performance of our selections. An installation team that worked around the schedule of the general contractor we hired for construction. As well as a post project team to ensure we were pleased with our investment and that everything was working as it should.
Thanks to the diligence and guidance from the team at Level 3 Audiovisual, we were not only able to meet, but exceed expectations! I highly recommend them for consideration for any future projects.
— Ron Kennedy, Project Manager, Delta Dental of Arizona
Maintaining Performance: Beyond the Installation
Delta Dental didn’t just build a high-performance AV environment—they committed to keeping it that way. With a Comprehensive Support Agreement in place, they receive:
- Unlimited break-fix support
- Remote system access and diagnostics
- Proactive monitoring of AV device health
- Preventative maintenance visits
This ensures their investment continues to perform, with Level 3 Audiovisual acting as an extension of their internal team, not just a vendor, but a true partner.
Redefining How AV Projects Are Done
Delta Dental’s Scottsdale office is more than a new workplace. It’s a case study in how AV projects should be done. By engaging early through a design retainer, aligning on outcomes, and embracing a design-build approach, they avoided the pitfalls of traditional procurement and built a future-ready environment that works.
In an industry where too many integrators give away design work and chase bids, we believe there’s a better way. Delta Dental embraced that—and the results speak for themselves.
— Jeff Bethke, Chief Business Officer, Level 3 Audiovisual
Want to Learn More?
We believe in this model because we live it every day. If you're tired of the traditional RFP grind and want to build smarter, start with a conversation—not a quote.
