Whether you’re organising a corporate conference or brainstorming sessions in a boardroom, AV (audio visual) is a big consideration. AV encompasses everything from microphones and speakers to projectors, screens, and lighting – all of which have the potential to impact the outcome of an event. But what exactly is audio visual, and how can you ensure that your AV solutions align with your event goals?
The audio visual industry is known as Infocomm, though the organisation that runs the trade show of the same name has changed its name to AVIXA. While the former stood for the Association of Information and Communications Technology, the latter is a better reflection of the fact that the industry now incorporates a wide range of technologies that include not just audio and video but also data, lighting and control systems.
A high school diploma is typically required for audio visual specialists, but a bachelor’s degree is highly recommended and a career in AV requires technical knowledge, project management skills and a strong understanding of architectural and cabling requirements. It is also important for audio visual professionals to be comfortable with the latest in AV equipment and software.
One of the most significant aspects of audio visual is the design phase. The AV design process involves drawing up user interface layouts, architectural plans, and system documentation in order to deliver systems that function optimally and reliably. This is an area where working with a firm that both designs and integrates your solution will prove to be beneficial. It allows you to have input early on in the project, and will mean that the resulting system is tailor-made for your needs.
Once the system is designed, it is then fabricated and tested in order to meet all of your AV requirements. This includes ensuring that each piece of hardware is working properly and efficiently, including testing the speaker’s output and adjusting the volume. This is an area where working with AV integration firm that has a proven track record of providing quality work will be invaluable.
As AV technology continues to evolve, it is becoming more important than ever for organisers of events and meetings to have a clear understanding of what their requirements are in terms of equipment, tactics and AV integration solutions. Taking the time to discuss these with a professional will help to ensure that the end result is both effective and memorable.
When done well, AV can transform an event from being an uninspired collection of slides into a truly impactful and engaging experience. Choosing the right AV integration firm to partner with will make all the difference in the world. But with so many AV-related acronyms and abbreviations floating around, it’s easy to get lost in the noise. We’ve put together a list of the most common terms to help you on your way.