Summer is a time of relaxation and vacations, and it usually means an abbreviated regular church service schedule. Although VBS, summer camps, mission trips, and other events step up our efforts, the normal ebb and flow of regular services sometimes takes a brief slowdown.
With that in mind, it might be a good time to think about your technology needs for the upcoming Fall season. We’re working with quite a few churches who are gearing up for satellite campuses, new service models, and general upgrades in their A/V/L systems.
During this time while things might not be as hectic in your normal schedule, here are a few suggestions to prepare for future needs and wishes.
Back to basics. Take a step back and get a big picture view of your current setup and your future needs. Make sure you aren’t neglecting any particular aspect of your audio/video/lighting/acoustics system, and if so, develop a plan for addressing it. Our diagram “Church A/V/L Essentials” can help you make sure you’re hitting all the bases.
To give is better than to receive. What equipment do you have that isn’t being used, but could be re-purposed? Perhaps you have a sister church in town or know another ministry who could benefit from some of your unused gear. Or maybe you intend to replace some gear that could also be shared with another deserving ministry. “Paying it forward” just might cause a heavenly release of resources for you to upgrade your own needs.
Are you maximizing your current setup? Sometimes our current equipment isn’t being utilized to its best capacity. You just might have capabilities that you’re not aware of. Although it’s absolute torture for some folks, you might consider reading your owner’s manuals again (or for the first time) to make sure that you’re getting the most out of your gear. Maybe you could hook up your equipment in a different way to get more functionality out of it, too.
Purchase with a purpose. Many of us are familiar with Dr. Rick Warren’s branded concept to have a clear reason and purpose for what we do in the church.
This is especially true if you’re considering purchasing new gear. It’s very important to clearly define exactly WHAT you need to do rather than what particularly cool or attractive piece you’re interested in.
Getting the right tool for the job is paramount. There are lots of kinds of hammers: claw, roofing, ball pein, sledge, jack—you get the point. Identifying where you’re lacking or what you need to improve will help you make good purchasing decisions.
Jeff McLeod is managing director and a certified church consultant for Church Audio Video.
Church Audio Video specializes in the design, installation and support of high-quality and affordable custom audio, video, lighting, broadcast and control systems for worship facilities. For more information, visit their website.
