Builder Simplicity - The Right Tool for the Job

Technology-based products are such that no one manufacturer makes the best overall equipment. In the real world, you may find that one manufacturer’s video projector, for example, may be the best in a certain category, but another of their models may be far from the best in its category. In rapidly changing technologies, the manufacturer who was“on top” six months ago may have slipped to a distant third today. Think of all the available pieces of equipment as tools in a tool chest. It is the job of the A/V consultant to select the right tools for your project. Consider a pair of pliers. While this is certainly a versatile tool, it is not the best choice for hammering a nail (although it can be used for this purpose). A salesperson who sells only pliers may not tell you this.

A correct evaluation of the equipment that is best suited for your application requires an unbiased approach that spans all manufacturers’ product lines. This knowledge can only be provided by an independent consultant.

Protect Your Interests

We have all heard horror stories about contractors who perform flawlessly until they secure the order:  

The installation process becomes a nightmare, with the crew disappearing to other jobs for days or weeks at a time. When the job is finally complete, and portions of the system either don’t work or don’t operate the way you expected, you are amazed at how little recourse you seem to have. A year later you hire someone to sort out the problems. When they ask you for the system documentation, you quickly discover that it is incomplete or non-existent . . . resulting in increased costs the second time around.

An independent audio-visual design consultant will write a technical specification that forms part of the contractor’s agreement. This will clearly define the system, its minimum expected performance, its function and operator interface, and methods and standards of workmanship. Your consultant will monitor the contractor’s work during installation,
will test the final system to ensure that it meets the specifications, and will review the contractor’s documentation for completeness. The contractor will not be paid until your consultant certifies that the system performs as specified, that the workmanship is to an acceptable standard, and the documentation and training are complete.

Imagine the reverse situation in which a salesperson, employed by the contractor, is responsible for holding up payment to their own company if either the system or the installation doesn't meet spec, or the documentation is lacking. Reminiscent of the fox guarding the hen house!

Summary

An independent audio-visual design consultant does not sell products and does not perform installation services. You should be very wary of anyone who claims to be a “consultant,” and then offers to quote on the products and/or the installation of the system that they have designed.

Only by hiring an independent design consultant, can you be assured that you are getting both the best possible system design and a “watchdog” to keep the vendor and installer honest.