Many businesses in the digital age require audio-visual equipment to effectively and efficiently communicate with their teams and clients. We use this equipment for things like video conferencing, presenting to groups, hosting live events, and a whole lot more. Ensuring audio and video integrity is essential to operating a modern business effectively. 

An AV control system will allow you to operate each piece of your audio-visual equipment on a single device. It’s a powerful business tool. Let’s look at what AV systems are used for and how tying the whole production together can deliver better results.

What is an AV system used for?

In the most simple terms, AV systems are used for presentation purposes. A patchwork of microphones, speakers, cameras, projectors, televisions, and lighting equipment work together to improve communication with employees and clients or to deliver high-end stage performances. 

AV system stands for audio-visual system, and that system may include any number of pieces of equipment listed above. This equipment can be haphazardly slapped together or it can be unified under a single hardware and software solution. 

AV control systems, or audiovisual control systems, function as hubs from which we can centrally control whatever AV system components we are using in the space. Each component is patched into the system, and a single piece of hardware with integrated software now controls the whole thing. Coordinating AV hardware and software this way makes the operator’s life much easier by eliminating the need for excessive multitasking, but the benefits don’t end there. 

AV control system benefits

If you’ve already got audio and video components controlled by a qualified operator, you may wonder whether or not you need to add an AV control system to your AV arsenal. While a traditional setup can serve simple purposes, there are good reasons to integrate a central control system into the equation.

AV control systems provide greater control

There are many adjustments in the AV world that traditionally needed to be made manually, and some were too laborious to even attempt. That’s no longer the case. AV control systems allow us to control every part of the system from a single location. Every task from controlling room lighting to powering devices on and off can now be made through an AV control system. This often allows the entire operation to be controlled by a single person.

Each component may be controlled individually or in tandem

With all things interconnected, operators are able to control equipment in any way necessary. Whether we need to adjust a single component or coordinate that adjustment with tweaks in another component, an AV control system makes it all possible with minimal effort. The result is increased production value. 

Increased production value

Coordinating all components under a single control umbrella allows an experienced AV system operator to deliver high-end production value that may otherwise be cumbersome to achieve. The advanced hardware and software features in AV control systems utilize the newest technologies to deliver fantastic sound and visuals with ease.

Easy adoption of advanced features

If you’re interested in adding more advanced features to your audio-video setup, an AV control system will allow for a smoother transition. Modern control systems are equipped to handle new technologies within the familiarity of your current workflow, reducing issues with adapting to those technologies.

Reduced learning curve

AV control systems allow those without professional IT experience to operate the system without the extensive onboarding required with traditional setups. This can make hiring and retaining AV system operators much simpler.

Since all cords and cables have been run and audio components situated to deliver the best results in your specific space, the operator needs only to learn to use the one device that controls it all. Once they have this fundamental knowledge, troubleshooting one component won’t come at the expense of your seamless presentation.

Where are AV control systems useful?

It may seem that not every business is in need of audio and video equipment. If you’re an independent online reseller or general contractor, you may see little value in this kind of equipment. However, any company with presentation, security, or telecom needs may see benefits through streamlined operations and improved audio and video quality.

Educational institutions

One industry that relies heavily on solid AV equipment is educational institutions. From student performances, to PTA meetings, to an increasing adoption of remote learning, there are a lot of reasons to utilize robust AV systems.

Creating an environment where all presentations and productions can be delivered seamlessly and with high production value gives administrators the flexibility to tackle this variety of needs effectively and efficiently.

Live performance venues

Anyone who owns a live performance venue, whether it’s an auditorium, bar, or taproom, has added incentive to invest in a solid AV system. They want their live performances to look and sound their best. Utilizing an AV control system is a wonderful way to get the audio and video quality you’re after. It also shows your production team you’re invested in the business, which goes a long way when it comes to employee retention.

Global industries

Industries that rely on input from people around the globe face unique communication challenges. The internet and personal electronic devices have proved themselves incredibly valuable in this arena, but they won’t solve every issue on their own. 

When presenting to a worldwide audience, it’s imperative that each participant can see and hear the moderator clearly. This isn’t as simple as propping a cell phone on a desk. With an AV control system, you can maximize the value your quarterly town hall provides.

Trade shows

If you’ve ever taken your product or service on the road, you know how important it is to reach the greatest possible audience in your travels. Utilizing an AV control system to tie components together in your trade show presentations will help you communicate your messaging more efficiently and get more people engaged. If it translates into increased sales, it’s well worth the investment.

Anyone with a boardroom

Whether we’re presenting to employees or clients, better production value delivers more engagement. Syncing your content with room controls with AV control software allows you to create an atmosphere that gets participants excited. This drives engagement and ensures everyone absorbs the messaging in your presentations.

How to integrate an AV control system into your setup

If you see the value in adding an AV control system in your business, you may have questions about how to integrate it into your current system. Luckily, AV system installation is easier than you may think.

Modern AV control systems are built with many different formats in mind, meaning you can likely tie the majority of your existing equipment together with ease. AV system integration isn’t rocket science, but it does take some technical knowledge to ensure you wire everything correctly and have a solid grasp of how to operate it. If you aren’t confident, you’ll want to work with professionals. 

We have decades of experience working with all things AV, and can both help you set up your AV control system correctly and provide audio visual systems examples to show you how to get the most out of it. We also carry the latest commercial AV systems, meaning we’ve got the solution to fit any scenario. If you’d like to learn more about setting up a solution to your business’ AV needs, reach out for a consultation.