Every business wants its communications systems to be seamless, which is a far more attainable goal when Audio-Visual (AV) and Information Technology (IT) systems are integrated.
For years, AV and IT infrastructure seemed to operate in separate worlds within many organizations. On the AV side, teams would focus on making sure that the microphones, projectors and displays worked well – and, of course, that room acoustics were acceptable. Conversely, the focus for IT has centered on cybersecurity, networks, servers, and user access.
Increasingly, though, business owners understand that these two distinct areas of technology should be integrated. After all, the business communication system relies on the same network “backbone” that supports email, CRM, cloud storage, and cybersecurity tools, as well as the components of AV programs. Video conferencing platforms, digital signage, collaboration boards, room scheduling panels and wireless presentation tools can provide seamless and professional communication if – but only if --all are working together.
When they do not, problems can arise. There is little more frustrating than when you have an AV presentation ready to go to impress a prospective client and a glitch occurs.
As a business owner or operations leader, it is important to integrate IT and AV in a way that works optimally and avoids those unexpected glitches.
AV and IT systems cannot be separate
Most modern AV systems are Internet based. That means that conference room cameras connect over the network; video walls pull content from cloud platforms, wireless presentation systems rely on secure Wi-FI, room controls communicate through network switches, and firmware updates require Internet connectivity.
Without a stable and secure network, AV systems will suffer. That in turn can result in dropped video calls, audio echo or sync issues, devices that do not connect, lagging presentations, and security vulnerabilities. The success of AV performance is tied directly to IT infrastructure quality.
Tips on integrating AV and IT
Integration is more than just plugging devices into Ethernet ports. It is also about designing systems holistically. How do you start?
Every new display, camera, or control panel should be planned with bandwidth, VLAN segmentation, and Quality of Service (QoS) in mind. High-definition video conferencing, for example, uses significant bandwidth. Without traffic prioritization, critical communication can compete with routine data usage.
It is important to treat AV as part of network architecture, not as an afterthought.
Connected AV devices are endpoints, which, unfortunately, makes them potential points of entry for cyber threats. Unsecured conference room cameras or networked printers can create vulnerabilities just like laptops and servers.
Businesses owners should have protections in place, including firmware management policies, access control protocols, encrypted communications, and network segmentation. The same security standards that apply to workstations should also apply to AV equipment. If you have an internal IT department, these steps should top the “to do” list. If not, consider seeking the support of an outside Managed Services Provider.
Particularly in this post-Covid business environment, businesses increasingly rely on platforms such as Microsoft Teams, Zoom or Cisco Webex. Integrating AV hardware fully with these systems allows users to experience one-touch meeting launches, auto-framing cameras, consistent audio performance and simplified scheduling integration.
Proper integration yields big dividends
When AV and IT systems operate seamlessly, there are key benefits, including:
Remember to avoid common integration mistakes
Even the most focused, well-intentioned businesses are capable of mistakes. In checking if your company’s IT and AV systems are integrated, avoid the common errors that can cause challenges.
Best practices for business owners
If you are evaluating or upgrading communication systems, consider these steps to make the communications in your company as good as itcan be.
For many organizations, communication systems are no longer simply meeting tools. Your communications system supports business functions, including client presentations, remote sales calls, training sessions, corporate announcements, and operational coordination. There is much more to an integrated AV and IT system than clearer video calls (although those are important!). An integrated AV and IT system is a resilient infrastructure which is a necessity in today’s connected environment.
If you have questions or concerns about how to fully integrate AV and IT in your organization, give us a call at 888-357-4277 or visit https://pulsetechnology.com.With seven decades of industry experience, we are the AV and IT “go to” people who can help with whatever your technology needs are. Let’s talk!