A smooth AV install starts with smart decisions
There’s a lot riding on a commercial AV system these days. Whether it’s crystal-clear audio in a conference room, seamless digital signage in a lobby, or a full-scale integration for an auditorium, your AV setup needs to just work—every time. But too often, we’ve seen projects fall short because of missteps that could’ve been easily avoided with a little foresight and the right partner.
At Montrose AV, we’ve handled installs of every shape and size, and we’ve also seen where things go sideways. If you’re getting ready to roll out a new AV system—or even just upgrade an old one—here are the most common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them.
Mistake 1: Not designing with the space in mind
Not every room needs the same AV setup, and yet, one-size-fits-all thinking still creeps into a lot of AV planning. What works in a 10-person conference room won’t cut it in a bustling auditorium or an open-plan office.
Avoid it by:
- Mapping out how each space is actually used
- Considering acoustics, lighting, layout, and audience size
- Tailoring the solution to match both function and environment
Working with AV pros who understand system design and integration helps ensure your setup performs as good as it looks.
Mistake 2: Underestimating cabling and infrastructure needs
You can have the latest speakers, displays, and touch panels—but if your cabling is messy, outdated, or not properly installed, your system’s performance is going to suffer.
Common issues include:
- Not running enough cable or conduit for future upgrades
- Placing equipment where power or connectivity is limited
- Overlooking signal interference or heat dissipation
It’s not the glamorous part of AV, but trust us—your cabling is the backbone of the system. If it’s done poorly, you’ll be chasing issues later.
Mistake 3: Forgetting about control and ease of use
You’d be amazed how many top-tier AV systems sit unused because no one knows how to operate them. A complicated system that requires a manual to use is going to frustrate your team—not impress them.
A smart AV setup should:
- Be intuitive for end users
- Include streamlined control systems
- Offer presets and automation when possible
The goal is simple: make it easy to use so it actually gets used.
Mistake 4: Skipping the testing and training phase
It might seem obvious, but rushing through final testing (or skipping it entirely) can lead to major headaches once the space is live. And not providing proper training? That’s just asking for tech support calls on day one.
Instead, build time into the schedule for:
- End-to-end system testing
- Staff training and walkthroughs
- Troubleshooting potential issues in real time
An install isn’t truly complete until it’s fully functional—and everyone’s confident using it.
Looking to avoid these headaches altogether? Partner with the experts at Montrose AV. We offer end-to-end AV System Design and Integration to ensure your project is built right from the ground up. Explore our Commercial AV Installs for scalable, reliable setups or check out our AV Installs for tailored solutions in any space. Need help getting started? Contact us and let’s talk about how to make your next install your smoothest one yet.