When it comes to technology, failures are often frustrating, disruptive, and costly.

At Above AVL, we believe that these failures are not only avoidable but can be minimized or eliminated entirely with proper planning, system design, and a deep understanding of how various pieces of equipment interact with one another. With extensive experience, our team designs complete systems by starting with the expected results and working backwards to arrive at the equipment needed, ensuring that your AV solutions are reliable, cohesive, and future-proof. Our recommendations are based on knowledge of equipment performance, not profit margins or dealer spiffs, allowing us to provide solutions that work best for your specific needs.

Why Piecemeal System Design Fails

A common pitfall in AV systems is the temptation to build or modify a setup piece by piece, integrating older equipment with new technology in an attempt to save money. While this approach might seem like good stewardship at first, it often leads to more problems and expense in the long run.

The issue arises because AV technology is not static—new equipment is continually being developed, while older equipment is phased out, making compatibility a significant challenge. Over time, you may notice that one piece of equipment after another starts failing. This results in a patchwork system that feels like it’s always breaking down, even though you’re investing time and money into repairs or replacements.

Eventually, the entire system becomes unreliable. A poorly integrated, piecemeal system can create a cascading failure effect, where even if one part of the system is upgraded or fixed, another part will inevitably fail. This ongoing cycle of failures can be incredibly frustrating for owners, users, or attendees and detract from the purpose of the system—whether it’s used for presentations, worship services, or live events. At Above AVL, we aim to prevent these issues by designing systems holistically, ensuring that all components are compatible and work in harmony to achieve the desired outcome.

DIY vs. Professional Expertise

In some cases, a do-it-yourself (DIY) solution may be adequate, especially if the system is simple, such as setting up a basic audio or video system for personal use. However, as soon as multiple systems—like audio, video, and lighting—need to be integrated, the complexity increases exponentially.

At this point, relying on professional expertise becomes crucial. While DIY enthusiasts may have general knowledge of AV systems, they may not fully understand how different components work together or, more importantly, where they may fall short.

For example, integrating an audio system with a video setup and a lighting control system requires an intricate understanding of each component's capabilities and limitations. These systems often need to communicate with one another to function seamlessly, and small mistakes in the design process can lead to malfunctions, delays, or complete system failures. This is where Above AVL’s expertise shines. Our team has hands-on experience with a wide range of equipment and knows how different brands and models interact—or don’t. Our designs ensure that all elements of the system function cohesively and efficiently.

Why Starting with Design Matters

A successful AV system begins with a clear understanding of the end goal. At Above AVL, we start with the desired outcome—what do you need the system to do? From there, we work backwards to determine the equipment required to achieve that goal. This approach is vastly different from simply selecting equipment based on price, availability, or brand reputation. We don’t push specific products because of higher profit margins or dealer incentives; we focus on what will work best for your space and your needs.

Designing with the end result in mind helps avoid the pitfalls of piecemeal upgrades, incompatible equipment, and system failures. A well-designed system ensures that all components are compatible, that they can be easily operated by the end-users, and that the system will remain reliable for years to come. It’s not just about having the latest technology; it’s about having the right technology for your application.

Conclusion

At Above AVL, we take pride in designing AV systems that meet our clients' needs from the ground up. By starting with the desired result and working backwards to select equipment, we avoid the common mistakes of piecemeal system design and DIY complexity. Our recommendations come from a deep understanding of the equipment and how it performs. By trusting the experts at Above AVL, you can avoid the frustration and cost of constant technology failures, ensuring that your AV system will deliver consistent performance, no matter the application, and we’ll be there to partner with you, every step along the way.