Where to Start with AV When You Are Building a New Office?

When should you start planning audio-visual technology for a new office build-out?

AV planning should begin during the initial architectural schematic design phase, long before drywall or electrical conduit is installed.

Involving a professional AV integrator alongside your general contractor and architect early prevents costly change orders, ensures adequate network infrastructure, and guarantees optimal room acoustics.

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The Step-by-Step Blueprint for New Office AV Infrastructure

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Step 1: Define Room Functionality and User Workflows

Identify how each space will be used. Boardrooms require higher camera tracking and display specs than casual huddle rooms, while lobby areas prioritize brand visual impacts.

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Step 2: Coordinate Power, Data, and Acoustic Pathways

Work with your integration team to map out floor pocket locations, wall backing for heavy displays, dynamic room acoustics, and targeted ceiling drop locations for speakers and microphones.

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Step 3: Establish IT & Network Security Standards

Ensure your network switches, VLAN configurations, and bandwidth allocations are designed to support low-latency AV-over-IP traffic safely behind your enterprise firewall.

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Step 4: Plan for Long-Term Managed Service

Build a long-term plan for software updates, regular preventative maintenance, and rapid-response technical support before your staff moves into the building.

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Partner with Immedia from Day One

Immedia takes the burden of AV project coordination off your internal IT and facilities teams. Our structured process guarantees your new office technology works right the first time.