In a time when technology is evolving faster than ever, the landscape of technologies under the purview of IT services is bursting with possibilities. From immersive virtual environments to sound masking and remote desktop software, there’s a variety of innovations waiting to be explored. For companies looking to differentiate themselves, tapping into these technologies isn’t just a competitive edge—it’s an opportunity to redefine what is possible.
As organizations embrace these cutting-edge technologies, it’s crucial to recognize that not all tech support is created equal.
In this blog, we will discuss specifically how Audiovisual Support is different from IT support.
What does IT Support look like?
IT (Information Technology) is the backbone of an organization’s digital infrastructure. It ensures that the systems users rely on, such as networks, servers, computers, and software, are secure, functional, and optimized for performance.
Effective IT support includes but is not limited to:
- Network Management
- Managed IT Service Desk
- IT Asset Management
- Endpoint and Server Management
- Hardware and Software Support
- Cybersecurity
- Data Backup and Recovery
- Patch Management and Updates
- User Account and Access Management
- Strategic Planning and Integration
It’s no secret that IT has become a key driver of business growth for most organizations. To maintain this momentum, it’s essential that IT systems receive optimized support—minimizing downtime, making data-driven decisions, enhancing user experience, and enabling teams to stay focused on innovation and strategic goals.
What does AV Support look like?
AV (Audiovisual) support focuses on the performance, reliability, and usability of technologies that enable communication and collaboration.
These technologies include video conferencing systems, digital displays, sound systems, and control interfaces. Unlike traditional IT support, which centers on networks, servers, and software, AV support ensures that the tools people use to see, hear, and interact in shared spaces work flawlessly.
Effective AV support typically includes:
- Incident management
- Proactive maintenance
- AV hardware and software support
- Change and Configuration Management
- Knowledge Management
- Asset Management
- Data Analytics
- User training and support
- Request Management
- On-site or remote troubleshooting
When people think of AV support, they often picture someone rushing in to fix a broken projector or troubleshoot a video call. But in today’s tech-driven workplaces, AV support is so much more than that because virtually everything is connected to a network.
It’s about creating consistent, intuitive experiences that allow teams to communicate and collaborate without downtime. Whether an organization has just a few meeting rooms or a complex network of AV-enabled spaces across multiple locations, the need is the same: reliable, data-driven, proactive support that ensures technology works when it’s needed most. And they deserve the same level of attention and expertise as any other critical infrastructure.
So, where do IT and AV Support Overlap?
Ticketing System: A unified service desk may handle both IT and AV tickets, streamlining support and improving response times.
Network Infrastructure: AV systems sometimes rely on the same network infrastructure managed by IT (e.g., for video conferencing, streaming, or remote management).
Security & Access Control: IT teams may manage user permissions, firewall settings, as well as device authentication for AV systems.
Device Management: Some AV endpoints (such as digital signage players or conferencing hardware) can be managed using IT tools.
Help Desk Integration: A unified service desk may handle both IT and AV tickets, especially within smaller organizations.
Where do IT and AV support differ?
Specialized Knowledge: AV support requires expertise in acoustics, signal flow, room control systems, and user experience design—areas that traditional IT staff may not be trained in.
Hardware Complexity: AV systems include unique hardware like DSPs, matrix switchers, microphones, and control panels that require hands-on configuration and calibration.
User Interaction: AV support is often more hands-on and user-facing, especially in live environments like conference rooms or auditoriums.
Overall, no matter what kind of support you’re seeking for your IT infrastructure, whether it’s AV, IT, or a combination of both, it’s essential to understand the scope of services you’ll receive. Downtime in any IT or AV system affects productivity and user experience. Clear expectations, specialized expertise, and proactive support are key to ensuring your technology investments deliver real value. By aligning your support strategy with your organization’s goals, you’re not just maintaining systems—you’re enabling people to connect, collaborate, and thrive.