Keep Warren Buffett's wisdom in mind when you look for a commercial AV integration service

As with any major purchase related to your business, you want a blend of the best value and highest quality. When you’re making any buying decision, it makes sense to consider the philosophies of top investors. Warren Buffett has some helpful views.

How to Think Like a Top Investor - Even on a Budget

Warren Buffett has an expression many people know: “Price is what you pay, value is what you get.” But have you stopped to think about what it means?

He’s pointing out that the most expensive item is not always the best quality. You have to look at the value of the item to make an informed decision.

As one of the world’s top billionaires, Warren Buffett is not cheap. But he’s often frugal. He understands where and when to cut corners and when to invest in the best. And he knows how to compare and evaluate to make the right choice.

When you’re looking at AV technology, from meeting room communication and collaboration technology to speakers and screens in a sports bar or hotel lobby, consider these aspects:

• Will it last over the long term?
• Will it deliver what you need?
• Will it help you create a seamless technology experience for your clients or guests?
• Will it enhance communication across your facility?
• Will it work the way it's supposed to?
• Does it fit your budget?

A trusted AV consultant can help you determine what you need and choose components that deliver value.

What It Means to Buy Lower Quality AV Technology

You may have heard the phrase, “Buy once, cry once.”

It’s not always easy shelling out tens of thousands of dollars, or more, for high quality audio, video, lighting and control systems or any other aspect of building and renovation projects.

I understand better than anyone because I’ve been renovating an old home in Pennsylvania for the past year. Everything is costly. But it often makes sense to spend more to get higher quality.

That’s where the phrase “buy once, cry once,” comes in. If you choose the more expensive item, you might feel like bawling when you get the bill. But you’ll be happy for years on end since you made a solid, thoughtful investment in your property and your business.

I talked about quality and price with GOBankingRates this past fall. For instance, I won’t buy certain products for my new home from big box home improvement stores. Low-voltage lighting, door locks, and essentially anything with mechanical systems from Lowe’s are not the same quality you’ll find when you buy from supply houses that serve professional contractors.

Does More Expensive Always Mean Better Quality AV Components?

When it comes to door locks at Lowe’s or smart TV screens from Best Buy, you will absolutely find better quality at other places that cater to professionals and offer commercial grade products.

When you’re talking about a large-scale AV systems integration project, you need a professional who understands the difference between price and value.

At Dara AV, we understand that more expensive does not necessarily mean better. And we know how to evaluate the difference to give you the highest quality components you need that deliver tremendous value for your money.

There’s another famous Buffett quote business owners should take to heart: “Whether we’re talking about socks or stocks, I like buying quality merchandise when it is marked down.”

Dara AV can leverage our distributor relationships to secure fair prices for our clients on integrated solutions that are user friendly and will last.

Spend the Money on Relationships You Can Trust

When you’re evaluating AV integrators for your corporate, education, retail or hospitality project, you have to make sure you’re comparing price and value.

Some New York metro area integrators charge less, but they skimp on components or rush to get the job done quickly to keep labor costs down.

You’re getting what you pay for. Your system components might face compatibility issues or they might fail sooner than you think. You may not receive the after-sale training and support you expected.

On the other hand, some AV integrators near me cost more. They might promise cutting edge systems, but they quote right to the edge of your budget. Even then, the service may not be what you expect, and you don’t realize until it’s too late that you could have gotten the same systems for less or systems that perform just as well for less money with just a few minor changes.

How and Why Dara AV Is Different

Dara AV delivers high quality AV solutions across the New York area in restaurants, hotels, corporate and educational facilities and houses of worship.

A well-designed system ensures customer satisfaction whether we’re talking about a conference room or a rooftop dance floor. If you’re looking to “wow” guests or in a hotel lounge or create an instant vibe in a retail store, we are here to help.

We understand the difference between high prices and real value. We will be mindful of your budget and good stewards of your money, spending as if it were our own. 

FAQs

What is the difference between an installer and an integrator?

People often use the terms AV installer and AV integrator interchangeably to describe professional firms that outfit your commercial building with audio video systems. An AV integrator is the more accurate term to describe a company that focuses on how AV system components work together, designing and installing complex systems that meet your venue's needs and providing service after the sale.

What qualifications do AV techs need?

AV technicians and AV installers should have technical aptitude and understand the way various audio, video, and other low-voltage systems work together. When you're choosing an AV firm, look for insured professionals with industry-specific certifications that show in-depth knowledge of the systems they design, specify, and install.

What are the benefits of working with an AV integrator?

AV integrators bring industry specific knowledge to your project, designing and installing complex AV systems that enhance communications and create the atmosphere you want in your venue.