In the world of business events, conferences, and presentations, the importance of seamless audio-visual (AV) services cannot be overstated. As organizations strive to create memorable and impactful experiences for their audiences, the debate between hiring an external AV vendor and working with an in-house AV team continues to evolve.
What are the pros and cons of an outsourced AV Vendor vs. an In-house company? We’ll tell you!
1. Expertise and Specialization
One of the primary advantages of hiring an external AV vendor is the access to specialized expertise. AV vendors are dedicated professionals who specialize in providing top-notch audio-visual solutions. Their teams are often equipped with a diverse set of skills, experiences, and industry knowledge, ensuring that your event benefits from the latest technologies and best practices in AV production. When hiring the in-house AV company, take a look at their experience and skill levels of their technicians – longevity is typically a good indicator of their dedication!
2. Cutting-Edge Technology
Technology in the AV industry is evolving rapidly. Outsourcing to an external vendor allows businesses to tap into the latest and most advanced AV equipment without the burden of continuous investment. Vendors often have access to cutting-edge technology, ensuring that your events are equipped with state-of-the-art audio and visual elements, enhancing the overall experience for attendees. A good in-house AV company should constantly be updating their inventory to keep up with the latest technology, and keep their equipment in good repair.
3. Cost Efficiency
Maintaining an in-house AV team requires significant upfront and ongoing investments in equipment, training, and personnel, with the intention of building a great team. However, outsourcing AV services can allow businesses to adopt a more cost-effective approach. External vendors typically have economies of scale, spreading the costs of equipment and expertise across multiple clients. This can result in substantial cost savings for your organization.
4. Scalability and Flexibility
Events come in all shapes and sizes, and their AV requirements can vary widely. External AV vendors offer scalability and flexibility with a large network of labor and inventory sources. Whether you’re organizing a small meeting or a large-scale conference, outsourcing allows you to tailor your AV services to the specific needs of each event without the limitations of internal resources. In contrast, a well connected in-house AV company will have the ability to tap into wholesale vendors as well, but will be locked into market prices.
7. Reduced Risk and Liability
Professional and talented AV technicians can mitigate risks associated with equipment failure, technical glitches, or last-minute changes. Successful AV vendors are well-prepared to handle unforeseen challenges, reducing the potential impact on your event and reputation.
Both in-house AV companies, and external vendors have their advantages. Outsourcing AV services to external vendors brings a myriad of benefits, including specialized expertise, access to cutting-edge technology, cost efficiency, scalability, and the ability to focus on core competencies. When looking at hiring an in-house AV company, do your research and determine if they have the track record to make your event a success! Reach out to us today to ensure you’re getting the most cutting edge production this year!
