In-house AV Teams and Production Companies: A Comparative Insight

In today's digital era, audiovisual (AV) services play a crucial role in creating immersive and engaging experiences, be it for events, corporate meetings, conferences, or live concerts. When planning such occasions, one critical decision you'll be faced with is whether to use an in-house AV team or hire an external production company. Both options have their benefits and drawbacks, and your choice may significantly impact the success of your event. Let's delve into the differences between these two options to help you make an informed decision.

Understanding the Role of AV Services in Today's Events:

What does an In-house AV Team Bring to the Table?

To start with, an in-house AV team is a group of technicians employed by the venue itself. They are familiar with the ins and outs of the location, and this familiarity can be a significant advantage. They know the best spots for sound and lighting, the layout of the venue, and they have an intimate understanding of the equipment at their disposal. This familiarity often translates into efficient setup and troubleshooting, which can save you valuable time. 

Why In-House AV Teams Might Be More Expensive

However, this convenience comes with a price. In-house AV teams can often be more expensive than external production companies. This is because venues usually include service fees and markups on top of the AV costs. Also, their equipment may lack diversity or be outdated, as they usually work with what they have on-site. 

Moreover, working with an in-house team may limit your creativity due to their familiarity with the venue. They might be less willing to take on innovative or unconventional ideas because of the perceived risk or the comfort of sticking to what they know works best within their environment.

The Comprehensive Services of External Production Companies

On the other hand, a production company is an external team that you hire for your event. Production companies offer a wide range of services, including but not limited to lighting, sound, staging, and video production. They bring their equipment, tailored to your specific event requirements. 

Hiring a production company often means access to the latest technology and high-quality equipment, which can significantly enhance the overall experience. They also bring a fresh pair of eyes to your event, offering creative and unique solutions to make your occasion stand out.

The Challenge Of Venue Familiarity

However, one potential drawback is their unfamiliarity with the venue. They might need extra time for setup and to troubleshoot any issues that arise. Also, communication can be more challenging, as they will need to liaise with venue staff, which could lead to misunderstandings or delays.

Judging Your Event's Needs

When it comes to choosing between an in-house AV team and a production company, it's essential to consider your specific needs, budget, and the complexity of your event. If you're planning a straightforward event and prefer to save time on setup, an in-house team might be the way to go. But if you're aiming for a standout event with the latest AV technology and unique production elements, then a production company could be your best bet.

Remember, the ultimate goal is to create an unforgettable experience for your audience. Therefore, the decision should be based on who can help you achieve that most effectively. Making the right choice between an in-house AV team and a production company could be the difference between a good event and a great one.