Nothing quite sours a meeting like the mention of a change order. Unplanned construction costs, timeline delays, and mismatched expectations plague clients, architects, and AV integrators alike.
But why is this? And, can thorns like change orders be avoided?
Yes — it takes close alignment, clear expectations, and continued communication throughout the entirety of a project.
The main challenge that too many face when it comes to installing audiovisual technology is timing. Usually, clients or architects bring AV integrators into a project after walls have gone up and the concrete poured.
This can create a number of challenges and cost money, which also causes unnecessary stress and tension.
All of this can be avoided by following a few best practices when engaging an audiovisual integrator for design-build projects.
Bring AV Integrators onto the Project Early — Like, Really Early
Constructing a high rise can take years to plan, secure funding, and actually build. The reason so many AV projects go awry is when AV integrators aren’t brought into the project until the tail end.
During the planning phase as architects understand what the building’s requirements must be, technology undoubtedly comes into the conversation. By some estimates, as many as 70% of organizations plan to integrate more smart building technology into their facilities in the years ahead.
With this in mind, it’s best to bring in AV experts as soon as technology is mentioned. In doing so, architects and building owners have the advantage to consult with engineers and designers, project managers, procurement, and all others well in advance.
This will afford more time to scrutinize details, understand use cases and goals, and achieve the optimal end result for those who will eventually occupy the space.
It’s also during this time AV integrators should align with other trades, collaborate with the IT department, and interface with end-users
During the early phases of a project an AV integrator can provide the following:
System recommendations
Estimates
Timelines
Technology roadmaps
Support offerings
Keep Communicating Throughout the Project Lifecycle
As projects progress, it’s important to keep everything organized so tasks, timelines and, most of all, budgets don’t fall out of sorts.
However, without clear and consistent communication, it’s all too easy for some trades, like AV, to get left out of the mix — especially when audiovisual technology only makes up a portion of the project.
If at some point during the project, there are changes to the design of the technical systems or even the layout of an area, all trades must stay in the loop so they can take the appropriate actions to accommodate them.
For AV technology, what may seem like subtle changes could have a ripple effect that’s unexpected. Moving a power outlet, repositioning of a room, or changing materials can require AV designers and engineers to rethink how people will engage with the hardware and software in the area.
“This is stuff that’s missed every day in construction projects,” said Peter O’Connor, associate principal of Hoefer Wysocki Architecture, in Commercial Integrator. “This is where [integrators] can help.”
As projects go into the design and engineering phases, AV integrators can provide the following:
Drawings
Renderings
A schedule of milestones
Bill of materials
Project costs
Trade coordination
Make Plans to Support AV Once the Project Wraps
Even after all the walls go up and the paint dries, the job isn’t over — not for everyone.
Audiovisual technology continues to evolve as demands for flexible, hybrid and remote collaboration shift the way employers and professionals interact with environments.
As installation comes to a close, it’s important for building owners or their respective occupants to have a plan in case they need ongoing support or managed services for the devices and software in use.
An audiovisual integration partner like CommLink can stay onboard to help support building and facilities managers, occupants and others to ensure they’re comfortable with the technology. Adoption is key to successful integration, a concept that architects and other trades know well.
Consider working with CommLink Integration for your next building project. See how we approach AV design, installation and support here.