There’s no room for mistakes in mission critical. A 24/7 operations center deals with the most vital workings of an organization and needs to be reliable.
Because of the essential tasks handled by an operations center, the technology used in the space needs to be user friendly and dependable. Choosing an integrator who knows this niche industry is key in making sure you plan for the right technology.
When the time comes to select your integrator, keep these key factors in mind: the scope of your project, its complexity, the integrator’s experience in installations like yours, and the ability for a long-term partnership with the integrator.
Project scope
Most mission critical projects do not exist in a vacuum. Many organizations need their installations to cooperate on a national or even global scale. Whether it’s coordinating the efforts of multiple GSOCs or supporting a worldwide business network through the collaboration of NOCs in a follow-the-sun model, chances are you’ll need an integrator well-versed in the challenges that come with complex multi-site installations. From logistics and customs to time differences, there are multiple factors that can complicate projects of this scope. Finding an integrator who can handle every detail, all while ensuring your operations centers work flawlessly together, makes all the difference.
Constant Technologies has extensive experience in the design, integration, and installation of video wall systems and mission critical A/V all over the United States and across the globe. We are also knowledgeable about the various collaboration technologies your organization may use so that command centers can communicate with each other. Whatever the scope, a mission critical expert like Constant can handle it.
Complexity
An operations center isn’t your typical AV project. Which means your typical AV integrator won’t be the right fit. “Mission critical” and “complex” can go hand in hand. With a large video wall that must run 24/7, numerous sources, strenuous power supply demands, and any number of other requirements specific to your operations, your control room design and installation requires an integrator who understands complexity and can provide easy-to-use solutions that stand up to the rigors of your space.
To find an integrator who can handle every little detail of your mission critical space, look for one who qualifies their staff by the commercial industry standards of CTS or CTS-D.
The CTS and CTS-D certifications (Certified Technology Specialist and Certified Technology Specialist – Design) are offered through AVIXA, the Audiovisual and Integrated Experience Association. This certification sets high standards for AV systems designers at an industry-wide level. An integrator like Constant Technologies, which is staffed by CTS and CTS-D certified audiovisual designers, has the training and attention to detail to ensure the success of your complex project.
Experience
When choosing an integrator for your command and control center, past performance is an absolute must. For a project of this level of importance, it’s imperative to choose an integrator with a proven track record of success in mission critical installations.
At Constant, our client list speaks for itself. Our work with firms like Aetna, CVS, Akamai Technologies, Carnival Cruise, Facebook, Lockheed Martin, and more as well as with government agencies such as the Department of Defense, United States Coast Guard and Air Force proves that we can be trusted with the most sensitive environments.
There are a lot of video wall integrators out there, and many of them have tried their hand at mission critical projects. But no one else specializes exclusively in the field of mission critical. We have always focused on building our expertise and sticking with what we know — and knowing it better than anyone else. After 30 years of nothing but mission critical, it’s safe to say we’re experts in the field.
Long-term service
Whatever your current plans, there is always the potential that your operations may grow in the future. In the process of choosing an integrator, look for one with whom you can build and maintain a long-term relationship. That way, when it comes time to increase the size of your space or update your technology, you can work with an integrator who is already familiar with your operations, capabilities, and preferences instead of beginning the process all over again.
In addition to possible future upgrades, future service needs are another reason to work with an integrator that values long-term relationships. With the complex systems involved in a mission critical video wall installation, there are multiple arenas where things can go wrong. When your command center is responsible for vital operations within your organization, it’s important to have as little downtime as possible. Choose a video wall integrator who offers a long-term service agreement such as an SLA (Service Level Agreement).
At Constant Technologies, service and support is core to who we are as a company. We offer customized service level agreements to meet the needs and budget of each individual client. Each agreement defines the elements of service covered such as turnaround time and which devices are covered. We also have a Support Operations Center where our service team can track and respond to service requests.
Choosing the best video wall integrator for your mission critical space is no easy task. Keeping these key points in consideration will help you narrow your focus. Constant Technologies specializes in Operations Center Video Wall integration and meets the most stringent requirements for an experienced AV integrator. From expertise on complex environments with global scope to the opportunity to develop a long-term relationship, we offer everything you are looking for in an operations center integrator.
For a free design and budget consultation for your mission critical video wall project, contact us today.
About Constant:
Constant Technologies, Inc. provides AV integration for 24/7 video walls and custom operation center furniture. With 30+ years of experience, we can work with sensitive environments in the public and private sectors. Constant designs and installs projects of all scopes and sizes around the world. We also offer long-term service and support. We create solutions with the highest levels of security, aesthetics and functionality in mind.
