Technology Integration in Early-Stage Construction

Last year, 85.25 billion U.S. dollars worth of commercial construction was built in the United States, according to Statista. One of the largest sectors of commercial real estate is, by no surprise, offices. 

In office spaces, tenants are typically looking for an environment that fuels productivity — and technology is a key factor in promoting productivity in the workplace. Corporate offices should be equipped with the latest audio, video and networking technology to promote collaboration. Even the smallest details, like lighting and structured wiring, can make or break workers’ satisfaction and productivity output in a corporate office space. 

The design and layout of office technology is not always in the hands of the tenant, though. Often, the decisions lie with the developer who’s overseeing the build. Still, it’s in developers’ and real estate investors’ best interest to design a seamless technology solution in the early stages of project construction.

It’s common for commercial real estate properties to integrate collaboration and meeting technology at the end of the building process — often, when time, resources and funding is limited. The result is often predictable. The client, or the tenant, rarely receives the highest quality solution because the integration project is completed in a rush with a budget-friendly solution. Now, this isn’t to say that technology integration can’t be completed within a budget. 

Integrators should be introduced to the architectural and construction team as early as possible to enable a seamless, cost-effective solution. By introducing integrators during the early stages of a new build, the project will run more efficiently, and the integrator can offer valuable feedback on the design as it relates to technology integration. The integrator can also offer value adds — such as insights on CAD drawings, explanations behind the proper location of audio components and acoustical treatments, and details on cabling structure necessary for commonly used video technology. When the architect and integrator collaborate on the design, all parties are helping ensure the space can accommodate the latest technology. 

Contact AV Planners via email at info@avplanners.com, or call us at 213-493-6473 for more information.

An integrator can design, install and manage an integrated system design while coordinating with traditional construction aspects and stakeholders, like architects, general contractors and electricians. Behind-the-scenes technology (e.g., network cabling, conduit and hardwired solutions) can be integrated before the walls are built out to save on time and resources. Most importantly, the completed solution will feature seamless integration of audio, video and networking to create a space that fuels productivity for office tenants and improves developers’ and real estate investors' ROI. 

"It is absolutely essential for audio visual consultants to be an early member and contributor to the design team,” explained Matt Whitham, licensed architect at Whitham Architects Design and Urban Planning, PC (WADUP Architects). “Expensive change orders can be easily prevented if thoughtful input from your audio visual and low voltage consultants is taken into consideration during the schematic design phase of a project. This contribution is not only beneficial for the owner's pocketbook, but will also make the overall architecture of the space more successful. Audio visual consultants, such as AV Planners, will be able to add valuable insight and are well suited to identify construction conflicts early in the planning process. At the end of the day, just a few coordination meetings with your consultants throughout each design phase will pay significant dividends for all parties involved in the project."

Integrators need a seat at the design table. If you’re a developer, architect or construction engineer, consider working with a technology integrator in the early stages of your next project. Contact AV Planners via email at info@avplanners.com, or call us at 213-493-6473 for more information. Keep up with the latest news from AV Planners on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.