1. Start with Vision, Not Gear
Before diving into brands, budgets, or gear lists, there is one question you and your leadership need to ask, “What are we trying to accomplish?”
Is the goal to reach more people online? Improve in-person worship experiences? Streamline your setup for volunteers? Or create an atmosphere that better engages your congregation?
Your integrator should be just as interested in your mission and ministry as they are in technology. A great AVL partner will ask about your vision, your team, your worship style, and your future plans and goals.
2. Look for Experience in Church Environments
There are plenty of talented AV companies, but churches are unique spaces spiritually, culturally, and practically. Your integrator should understand that and seek to understand your culture. They should know what it’s like to mix a worship band while a pastor preaches. They should understand the importance of iMag, livestream framing, and creating a distraction-free environment.
3. Evaluate Their Process (Not Just Their Price)
It’s tempting to focus on the bottom line, but the cheapest quote doesn’t always mean the best value. Ask potential integrators to walk you through their process:
– Do they offer site visits and consultations?
– Will they create detailed system drawings or 3D renderings?
– Do they test gear and offer training for your team?
– Will they support you after the installation is complete?
4. Pay Attention to Communication
Great technology means nothing if the team installing it can’t communicate clearly. Your integrator should be easy to reach, responsive to your questions, and willing to explain complex systems in simple terms.
5. Ask About Volunteer Training and Ongoing Support
Most churches don’t have a full-time tech staff. You need systems that are volunteer-friendly—and an integrator who will train your team to feel confident using them. Ask your integrator how they handle ongoing support of the gear that they install.
6. Review Their Work
Don’t just take their word for it; look at real projects that they have accomplished. A reputable integrator should be proud to show off past work. Visit their website, watch videos, and ask to be connected with past clients.
Also, check their Google reviews. Solid reviews with detailed feedback can give you insight into how the company communicates, handles problems, and supports clients after the install. Look for consistent mentions of things like professionalism, responsiveness, and follow-through.
If they’ve worked with churches like yours—and you love the results—it’s a strong sign they’re a good fit.
7. Think Long-Term, Not One-Time
Your AVL system isn’t a one-and-done purchase, it’s a living, evolving tool that will grow with your ministry. Choose an integrator who thinks long-term and puts the vision of your church first.
Final Thoughts
In the end, choosing an AVL integrator is about trust. You’re inviting someone into your sacred space to shape how people hear the gospel, experience worship, and encounter community. That’s not just a technical role—it’s a deeply spiritual one.
So choose someone who gets it. Someone who listens. Someone who serves.
If you’re ready to explore what’s possible for your church, our team at Front Porch Media is here to help. Let’s talk about your space, your goals, and how we can partner to bring your vision to life—one pixel, one cable, one moment at a time.
Ready to Start the Conversation?
Reach out today at https://frontporch.media/contact-us to schedule a discovery call.
