Audio Visual
AV and IT are two worlds that should be aligned but too often find themselves at odds with each other. These two disciplines need each other to work well; without one, the other cannot function. In this article, we will break down what types of issues can arise from lack of communication between AV and IT and how to create a collaborative and integrative process, so you can achieve a more efficient use of resources and a higher level of customer satisfaction.
What’s Not Working
The problem is that these two worlds often don’t communicate. There’s a big disconnect between the people who design, deploy and manage AV systems and the people who design, deploy and manage IT systems. AV is typically seen as a specialized area within IT, and it’s not uncommon for there to be little or no communication between the two groups. This can lead to problems when AV systems need to be integrated with IT systems or when changes are made to IT systems that impact AV systems.
For one, there may be compatibility issues with the technology used. Incompatible hardware and software can lead to slow performance or even complete failure during events. A lack of communication between IT and AV teams can result in confusion and miscommunication during setup and execution. This can lead to frustration for staff, as well as a negative experience for customers or attendees. Additionally, not properly integrating AV and IT can also result in security risks, as sensitive information may not be properly protected.
AV and IT professionals must work together closely and have a good understanding of each other’s world. Only then can they ensure that AV and IT systems work together seamlessly and that any changes made to one system don’t adversely impact the other.
The Benefits of Collaboration
When it comes to audio visual (AV) and information technology (IT), the two disciplines are often thought of as separate entities. However, there are many benefits to be gained by having AV and IT working together.
1. Increased efficiency
When AV and IT are integrated, tasks can be completed more quickly and efficiently. For example, if a meeting is being recorded, the audio and video can be stored on the same server, making it easy to access and share.
By integrating AV and IT, organizations can improve their internal and external communications. For example, video conferencing can be used to connect employees who are working remotely.
3. Enhanced security
When AV and IT are integrated, security systems can be more effectively monitored and managed. For example, CCTV cameras can be linked to a network so that they can be monitored remotely.
4. Greater flexibility
When AV and IT are integrated, businesses have greater flexibility in how they use their resources. For example, if a company has excess capacity in its data center, it can use that space to store video files instead of investing in additional storage equipment.
5. Cost savings
One of the main benefits of integrating AV and IT is cost savings. By using existing infrastructure for both AV and IT applications, organizations can avoid duplicate investments in hardware and software.
How to Succeed in Business
To get the most out of your business, you must ensure that your audio and visual (AV) systems work together. Here are a few tips on how you can make sure these two worlds work together:
- Keep your AV system up-to-date
Just like any other technology in your business, your AV system needs to be kept up-to-date to function properly. Be sure to install updates as soon as they become available.
- Use high-quality equipment
To ensure everything goes smoothly between the two systems, use quality speakers, microphones, and other AV equipment.
- Train with experts
To get the most from your system, train management and employees on how to use it properly so everyone can work together seamlessly. Offer training on how to set up and troubleshoot when things go wrong with the system.
- Invest in integration software
Integration software (that ties into current IT infrastructure) allows seamless integration between the two systems that work well together while reducing redundancies and technical issues.
- Work with professionals
To get the most out of your AV system, you should work with a professional vendor that understands and has deep expertise in both the AV and IT spaces who can help you design and implement the perfect solution for your business.
By working together, AV and IT can overcome some of the challenges they face and provide an exceptional customer experience. Are you looking for ways to improve your customer experience? Contact Astreya today. We specialize in helping companies like yours overcome these challenges and realize the full potential of their technology investments.