The AV User Group brings together end users of AV technologies with activities currently in London and New York. Anna Mitchell gets the user's point of view from chairman, Owen Ellis.
The growing complexity of AV systems, a trend toward networked technologies and increasingly knowledgeable customers means integrators must understand and engage with their clients to greater depth than ever before.
But it’s not always as easy as it sounds.
Owen Ellis, vice president of the multimedia department of Morgan Stanley and chairman of the AV User Group, argues: “Users are becoming more familiar with the use and functionality of AV equipment and systems, both in the workplace and at home. They therefore better understand the benefits AV can provide.
“However, the problem that still exists in our industry is that AV is often a subset of large construction or IT projects. The requirements of the end user get filtered through layers of people that don’t actually understand AV but are passing on the requirement to the AV consultant or integrator. The more savvy the end user becomes and the more specific their needs, the greater the problem.â€
Ellis is in a good position to comment. After 16 years working in AV integration - with positions at Electrosonic and Metro Video - he moved to the multimedia department of investment bank, Morgan Stanley. He now holds global responsibilities for projects and maintenance.
Furthermore, he was central to the creation of the AV User Group and is its current chair.
Hear more from Ellis on the role of the AV User Group and how integrators can best serve their customers in
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