Tech's New Tempo

How the industry has changed over the past 5 years:

*Flashback to five years ago* Your AVLA system setup, (maybe just an AV setup) was the height of innovation. Solid sound, decent lighting, maybe even some live-streaming capabilities. Fast forward to today, and that once cutting-edge system is starting to feel like a flip phone in a smartphone world.

Time moves fast. Even faster in the realm of technology integration. By keeping a pulse on these changes, we can better predict the technological needs of the future.

Over the past five years, the audio, visual, lighting, and acoustics industry has undergone a transformation that even the most seasoned tech directors didn’t see coming. If you’ve been around long enough to remember the first projectors and soundboards, then you know that AV technology doesn’t just change—it evolves in leaps and bounds. But it’s more than just new gadgets on the shelf.

Today, the trends shaping our industry are about adaptability, immersion, and creating richer, more seamless experiences.

Let’s dive into a few ways these changes have redefined how we create spaces that captivate audiences, whether they’re sitting in the front row or tuning in from miles away.

What’s changed?

First, virtual and hybrid events have skyrocketed in demand. Thanks to the pandemic, venues and houses of worship alike have embraced live streaming as a core part of their operations. High-quality video, interactive features, and real-time feedback are now standard, with venues investing in broadcast-grade cameras and robust AV infrastructure to ensure remote audiences feel just as connected as those in the room. This shift means tech teams have to think about more than just in-room sound—they’re managing a whole digital experience.

Then there’s smart and automated lighting control. Gone are the days when lighting meant simply “on” or “off.” Modern venues now use programmable, remote-controlled lighting that adjusts to different events and atmospheres, creating dynamic settings with ease. It’s perfect for multipurpose spaces that need to switch from a serene lecture to an upbeat concert. This technology saves time, requires minimal manual tweaking, and lets you get creative with colors, dimming, and transitions without breaking a sweat.

And, of course, there are the immersive audio experiences and modular AVLA designs that have taken center stage. This technology is redefining what’s possible for multi-use spaces. Today’s object-based audio systems, like Dolby Atmos, offer a 360-degree sound experience that fully envelopes audiences, making worship services, concerts, and community events unforgettable. Meanwhile, modular AV setups allow venues to seamlessly scale up for large events or adapt to smaller gatherings—all with the same high quality. It’s about creating versatile, immersive environments that serve multiple purposes without missing a beat.

Finally, and arguably most importantly, the role of AV integrators has expanded.

Today, clients expect their AV partners to do more than just install gear; they’re looking for comprehensive consultants who offer everything from design and planning to ongoing support. As systems become more complex, integrators are stepping in to bridge the gap between AV and IT, ensuring all components—from audio to lighting to network—work seamlessly together.

The analog days are long gone; in this digital age, a reliable AV partner is key to keeping everything running smoothly. And that’s where CSD comes in.

We’re here not just to install equipment, but to provide the expertise, support, and forward-thinking solutions you need to keep up with this rapidly changing industry. From design and planning to seamless integration and ongoing maintenance, CSD is the partner you can count on to bring your vision to life with technology that doesn’t just work—but RESONATES.