Whether you’re planning a home recording studio or an immense stadium audio, video, and lighting (AVL) system, it’s important to get started and keep your project on the right path. Here’s how.
1. Clearly define your goals for the project
This is the most important step! Before embarking on any significant project, it’s essential to define what you want to accomplish and how your new system will support those goals. Considerations such as timeline, budget, room, and how you’ll use your new system are all important factors to understand before getting started. This step will take some time as you contemplate the desired outcomes.
Capture these details in a format that will help you and others see the big picture. As you look over your goals, think of them as a test that all your project decisions have to pass before being implemented. Be sure to review your goals frequently during your project. They will help ensure your project stays on course. Now that you’ve defined your goals, Sweetwater can show you the best way to make them a reality.
2. Determine the functions and features you need
Now that you’ve defined what you want to accomplish, it’s time to explore specific ways to achieve these goals. This goes far beyond what equipment you’ll need. It’s about understanding how the sum of your gear works together to comprise a total system solution designed to achieve your desired outcome. Sound complicated? Don’t worry – that’s what we do best! We can help create efficient workflows and build an effective system designed around your needs.
One of the most important factors to consider is who will be using the system and how comfortable they are working with the gear. This will play a significant role in the end results. Proper training is essential to effectively using your new system to its full potential. No matter what experience level you’re working with, Sweetwater can help create a system that’s right for you and your team.
3. Consider future growth and maximize scalability
Think about the future. How you use your system today may be different than how you will use it later. For example, you may only need a certain number of channels today, but your projects and team may grow significantly over the next few years. Avoid making choices that will limit your ability to expand your capacity down the road or trigger unnecessary additional expense. We can help you think through all your options to choose the best solutions.
From the goals you’ve defined for your project, some may be a higher priority than others. Perhaps you’re planning to add system capabilities at some point, or you’d prefer to use a phased approach to your project. That can be a smart way to build an effective system while maintaining control over your budget. By planning for growth, you can ensure you get the most out of your system while conserving money along the way — both now and in the future.
4. Give your project time
Allow plenty of time for each stage of the process, from design to installation. Even with a solid plan in place, unforeseen obstacles and delays can occur with little or no notice. Set realistic expectations for yourself and others. It is helpful to pad your timeline to allow for setbacks and delays. This can help you hit your deadlines while alleviating unnecessary stress and frustration along the way.
Be sure to give anyone using the new system enough time to get comfortable with it long before scheduling a major production or special event. We get it — we’re excited for you to experience all the capabilities of the new system. Although your system will be ready to go as soon as it’s installed, you and your team may not be!
5. Prioritize value over dollars
Start by setting a reasonable budget for your project based on the goals you established above. Consider the amount of time, effort, and expertise required to properly design and install your system. As you’re receiving quotes, if something sounds unreasonably cheap, then there may be something missing that will cost you more in the long run. In most cases, the maxim “You get what you pay for” rings true. Avoid getting too engrossed with a particular “must-have” brand or product. There may be many other viable and more cost-effective solutions available for your project.
6. Select the right install partner
The AVL company you select to provide your solution should offer more overall value for your dollar than competitors. Investigate each company’s experience, references, communication, and commitment to support after the sale. A company’s longevity can also be a strong indicator of consistent, reliable service. Poor-performing companies with bad customer service tend to not survive long. Look for a provider that values long-term, healthy relationships — not just a transaction.
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If you need help with design or install for your AVL systems, give your Sweetwater Sales Engineer a call at (800) 222-4700.
