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With subscription services like Netflix, Hulu, Spotify, and Blue Apron, buying DVDs, cable television, CDs, and even groceries is a thing of the past. The monthly fee allows you to access all the movies, music, and gourmet foods you want without buying anything else.
There's no doubt it's a successful model in the consumer market, but how does it translate to commercial AV integration? AV-as-a-Service is the Netflix equivalent of enterprise-wide AV integration, software, and support. This article explains how AVaaS works and why it might be the right solution for you.
How Does AVaaS Work?
AV and IT managers are familiar with Software-as-a-Service, or SaaS, which allows companies to avoid purchasing multiple, expensive licenses for software by subscribing to a subscription service. The same principles apply to AVaaS.
Users can lease the AV hardware they need from AV integrators for a predictable monthly fee instead of making a significant upfront investment. Many options are available for that equipment, including single solutions such as video conferencing systems, or complete meeting room solutions that include everything needed. The AV integrator also provides reliable, expert support for those AV solutions, eliminating the need for end users to dedicate their staff to maintaining, monitoring, and troubleshooting them.
By outsourcing AV equipment and services with AV as a Service, many costs and risks associated with managing AV equipment and services can be mitigated.
Here are three reasons why you should consider AVaaS
1. Better Budget Management
With AVaaS, you don't have to worry about capital expenditures for AV hardware or room systems; instead, you pay a predictable monthly fee for what you AV hardware & services. Your AVaaS contract should also include monitoring, maintenance, and repairs, so you won't be left with any unexpected repair bills. Through AVaaS, you can receive a higher quality solution than you could otherwise afford. You might have to compromise when you purchase a solution upfront because of your budget. The AVaaS subscription model removes that constraint.
2. Streamlined scalability and standardization
The more AVaaS solutions your AV integrator deploys for your organization, the easier it is for them to duplicate that solution across multiple spaces across your building or corporate campus. You can also be confident that your integrator will monitor and maintain all your AV equipment since they will monitor and maintain all your AV solutions.
3. More Streamlined Operations
The AV and IT staff at your organization can focus on projects and priorities that will help your organization develop and innovate. This is because you move away from owning and maintaining AV hardware. You don't have to spend valuable time and money on the endless cycle of buying, replacing, and replacing technology because your AV integrator takes care of the entire lifecycle. When it's time to upgrade your AV equipment, the integrator will take the lead in recommending the next solution. This will ensure it meets your needs and is compatible with your existing technologies.
Partnering with the Right AVaaS Provider
A significant benefit of AVaaS is that integrators and technology managers work together more frequently and closely, strengthening the integrator-customer relationship. As a result, selecting a qualified integrator to understand and meet your needs is even more crucial.
