Why AV as a Service (AVaaS) is Making CapEx Obsolete?

Are some of these obstacles sounding familiar: cashflow contraints, CapEx challenges, poor or unknown meeting room ROI, no transparency on space utilisation?
August 12, 2024

In today's rapidly evolving technological landscape, businesses are increasingly seeking flexible, scalable, and cost-effective solutions to manage their audio visual (AV) needs. Enter Merge Technologies’ AV as a Service (AVaaS), a transformative model that offers comprehensive AV solutions on a subscription-based model. This approach is not only reshaping how organisations deploy and manage AV technologies but also driving significant operational and financial benefits.

 

What is AV as a Service (AVaaS)?

AVaaS is a service model where businesses procure AV equipment and services for a monthly fee rather than purchasing them outright. This typically includes everything from hardware and software to installation, maintenance, and support. Much like Software as a Service (SaaS), AVaaS allows organisations to pay for what they need when they need it, providing greater flexibility and predictability in managing AV infrastructure.

 

Key Benefits of AVaaS

  1. Cost Efficiency
       
    • Reduced Upfront Costs: By eliminating the need for large capital expenditures, AVaaS lowers the financial barrier to acquiring the latest AV technologies.
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    • Predictable Expenses: Subscription-based payments make it easier for businesses to budget and manage expenses, avoiding unexpected costs associated with maintenance and upgrades.
  2.  
  3. Scalability
       
    • Flexible Solutions: AVaaS providers offer scalable solutions that can grow with your business. Whether you need to equip a single conference room or an entire office building, AVaaS can adapt to your requirements.
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    • Up-to-Date Technology: Stay ahead of the curve with access to the latest AV equipment and software, ensuring your business benefits from cutting-edge technologies without the need for frequent upgrades.
  4.  
  5. Enhanced Support and Maintenance
       
    • Comprehensive Support: AVaaS providers offer ongoing support and maintenance, ensuring your AV systems are always functioning optimally. This includes troubleshooting, repairs, and regular updates.
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    • Expertise on Demand: Gain access to a team of AV experts who can provide guidance and support, allowing your internal IT team to focus on your core business activities.
Cost efficiency, scalability and comprehensive support are standout features of a true AVaaS solution

Use Cases for AVaaS

  • Corporate Environments: Enhance meeting rooms, conference centres, and huddle spaces with state-of-the-art AV solutions that foster collaboration and communication.
  • Educational Institutions: Equip classrooms, lecture halls, and auditoriums with advanced AV technology to support dynamic and interactive learning experiences.
  • Healthcare Facilities: Implement AV solutions in patient rooms, operating theatres, and conference areas to improve communication, training, and patient care.

Microsoft Teams Rooms | VC Systems
AVaaS is particularly well suited to multi-room deployments in corporate environments and can include different room types, like this Microsoft Teams Signature Room

Choosing the Right AVaaS Provider

When selecting an AVaaS provider, consider the following factors:

  • Reputation and Experience: Look for providers with a proven track record in delivering high-quality AV solutions.
  • Service Level Agreements (SLAs): Ensure the provider offers comprehensive SLAs that cover support, maintenance, and uptime guarantees.
  • Customisation Options: Choose a provider that can tailor their services to meet your specific needs and preferences.
  • Customer Support: Opt for a provider that offers robust customer support and rapid response times.

AV as a Service is revolutionising the way businesses approach their audio visual needs, offering a flexible, scalable, and cost-effective alternative to traditional ownership models. By adopting AVaaS, organisations can stay ahead of technological advancements, reduce costs, and ensure their AV infrastructure is always optimised for performance. As the demand for seamless and sophisticated AV solutions continues to grow, AVaaS stands out as a forward-thinking approach that aligns with the dynamic needs of modern businesses.

 

Looking Ahead

As businesses continue to navigate the complexities of hybrid and remote work, the team at Merge stands ready to deliver innovative, reliable, and efficient meeting room solutions that meet the highest standards. As a result of our commitment to innovation, quality, and reliability, we have developed an entirely new AVaaS model called MergeSPACES.

MergeSPACES: We’re Changing the Conversation

Amidst the exciting launch of our Microsoft Teams Rooms experience centres in May (read more here), we unveiled MergeSPACES, a revolutionary consumption-based 'as a service' concept designed to transcend traditional boundaries associated with procuring, managing and upgrading meeting room technology. The launch of MergeSPACES promises to revolutionise the way organisations implement new technology by minimising risk and friction, and maximising value.

Sign up here to learn more and be notified when MergeSPACES becomes available.

If we can help with your workplace technology and collaboration journey please reach out to speak to one of our friendly team members. Or if you're interested in seeing all that's possible with Teams Rooms, head here to schedule a tour of our Sydney or Melbourne experience centres. Check out our Microsoft Teams Room experience centre launch below.

Stay tuned for more updates and innovations from us as we continue to drive the future of workplace communication and collaboration.

Last updated: 05/08/2024

Grace Tran - Marketing & Communications Manager