Pay to Play: How to (and how NOT to) make your digital dreams come true

The certified experts at Sound Planning know that the decision to upgrade your existing sound system or AV system can be a daunting one– especially if, like so many of us, you spent the first months of the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent world-wide shut downs investing heavily in sound and AV systems that would help keep you connected to your staff, volunteers, and your customers or patrons. Further investments to upgrade, install, or completely fix the systems that you’ve been using for the past few years– or longer– might even seem excessive. 

However, there’s a difference between buying what you need to get by and investing in long-term solutions to make all your (digital) dreams come true. Here are some guidelines for what to do and not to do no matter your AV or sound system needs!

DO call experts like the design-build integrators at Sound Planning
It’s impossible to over-value the experience that integrators like the experts at Sound Planning can bring to your project. It’s always tempting to cut costs wherever you can; when project managers and organizations have to make critical decisions about what to and what not to include in their project budget, quality assistance after a design is approved is often the first victim. But you shouldn’t discount a quality AV company– like Sound Planning!-- that can provide you with more than just a design. Sound Planning’s focus on the design-build model commits experts to your organization or project from design to implementation to completion and beyond.    

DO insist on top quality… but make sure you keep your budget in mind
It’s tempting when you do make the decision to design and implement an upgrade or a new install, it will be tempting to think that the newest tools and equipment will be the best. But the newest fads in audio-visual design might not be what you need to help you reach your digital dreams; it’s important to design for the best possible equipment for the needs of your organization and within the limits of your budget. Remember, upgrading the first system that you design isn’t just a possibility; you should design your system with upgrading in mind!
          
DON’T fall into the “quick fix” trap
We’ve talked about the “quick fix” trap before in these blogs. Many organizations and companies, committed early to audio-visual systems that they could cobble together as short-term solutions to what turned out to be long-term problems. Despite the fact that those systems were designed and put together quickly, with little to no regard for longevity or maintenance, companies and organizations are still relying on quick fixes for problems and shortcomings. Avoid the temptation to keep replacing the $20 speakers that don’t last because they’re cheap and easy to find. Instead of pouring more money than you need into equipment and systems that don’t work for you or your staff, consider investing in a fully integrated sound system or AV system that suits your needs right now and in the future!

If you’re reading this blog, it means that you care about how you spend your money. Commit to higher quality goods and design. Remember that a design-build model and experienced experts are your road to a system that works for you now and in the future. Another benefit of calling on experts like the integrators at Sound Planning is the ability to plan for the future. Don’t be afraid to plan for upgrades! Think about how much better it would be for your long-term budget to anticipate regularly scheduled improvements, instead of emergency repairs. 
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Contact Sound Planning today and let them help you reach your digital dream!

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