Choosing an AV partner is a big decision—and the wrong choice can lead to costly headaches down the line. At DGI, we’ve spent decades stepping in to fix systems that were installed without a plan, without IT coordination, or without long-term support in mind.
If you’re evaluating AV partners, here are five questions you should ask before moving forward.
1. What Happens After Install?
The smartest AV decisions start before a single cable is run. When someone asks, “What does day 2 support look like?” it shows they understand a key truth: success isn’t just about getting the system up and running—it’s about keeping it running
Because if there’s one thing we all know about technology, it breaks. Displays glitch. Devices disconnect. Issues tend to pop up —often when you can least afford it. That’s why support can’t be an afterthought.
At DGI, we offer optional service plans designed to fit your environment and business needs. With proactive remote monitoring, responsive support, and a team that doesn’t disappear after the install, we help you stay ahead of issues—not scramble to react to them.
2. What Are Your Technical Credentials?
It’s surprising how few buyers ask about certifications. When you rely on someone to ensure your communication platform is functioning properly—because it’s a critical part of your business—you need to trust that they’re fully capable and dependable. Your AV partner should have industry-recognized credentials through AVIXA as well as manufacturer specific certifications from Crestron, Extron, Biamp, QSC and others. These validate the team’s ability to handle programming, network integration, and complex installations—not just hang gear on a wall.
3. Are You Thinking About the Network?
Today’s AV systems don’t live in a silo—they run on networks. If your AV partner isn’t asking questions about VLANs, IP schemas, cross-connects, or IT coordination from day one, that’s a red flag. We work closely with IT teams to ensure your AV system is secure, scalable, and won’t choke your infrastructure.
AV now shares space with your enterprise apps, voice systems, and cloud services. Poor planning can lead to dropped calls, bottlenecks, or even security risks.
The result? A seamless, secure, and scalable experience that performs under pressure.
4. How Do You Support the System Over Time?
A quality AV system isn’t just installed—it’s managed. At DGI, we design systems that are fully capable of being monitored and managed, so your team knows when a device goes down before the user ever walks into the room. Our clients don’t just get gear; they get uptime.
5. Do You Understand Integration vs. Installation?
Plenty of companies can hang displays and run cables -but that’s just the surface. True AV integration is a much deeper process that ensures your technology doesn’t just function—it works together seamlessly.
Integration starts with upfront planning, programming, software configuration, testing, and user interface development – ensuring every component works together. It’s about making sure the audio, video, control, and network elements don’t just coexist—but communicate effectively.
At DGI, our engineers don’t just connect equipment. They create unified systems built for the way your teams actually work—prioritizing usability, consistency, and long-term supportability. Integration isn’t about putting gear in a room—it’s about making the room work.
Bonus Tip: Experience it for yourself
One of the most overlooked steps in choosing an AV partner? Taking a tour.
At DGI, we encourage every prospective client to visit our Boston-area showroom. It’s your chance to get hands-on with the latest AV technology—test it, touch it, experience it in action. Think of it like taking the system for a test drive before you buy. You’ll see real setups, built for real clients, solving real problems. No guesswork. No assumptions. Just a clear view of what’s possible when AV is done right.
Choosing an AV partner isn’t just about price and timelines. It’s about trust, planning, and long-term results. Ask the right questions, and you’ll choose a partner—not just a vendor.
Schedule your showroom visit today and discover how a well-integrated AV system actually works—before you commit.
