An Interview with Abhik Roy

In today’s fast-paced corporate landscape, the significance of audiovisual (AV) systems cannot be overstated. As companies embrace modern technology to enhance workplace environments, the need for seamless AV integration has become paramount. To shed light on this essential aspect of corporate real estate, we spoke with Abhik Roy, a seasoned professional with over 19 years of experience in Corporate Real Estate and Workplace Interior Design and Build. His insights offer a comprehensive understanding of the complexities and challenges surrounding AV
integration in contemporary projects.

A Career Built on Collaboration

Abhik Roy’s journey in the realm of corporate real estate began during his tenure at ADRIANSE and flourished at SPACE MATRIX, where he quickly recognized that AV systems are a critical component of any project. “AV can’t be separated from the overall project; it’s an integral element,” he asserts. Treating AV as a standalone aspect can lead to numerous complications, affecting not only the technical execution but also the overall user experience.

As a project manager, Abhik’s approach was always collaborative. He made it a point to involve all stakeholders in the design and execution phases, ensuring that everyone was on the same page. This approach has not only allowed him to gain hands-on experience with AV installations but has also equipped him with a solid understanding of various AV products. Currently, his team works directly with Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) like Crestron, Soltech, Sennheiser and Q-SYS to deliver tailored AV solutions for their projects.

The Consequences of Late Involvement

Despite his proactive stance, Abhik acknowledges that one of the most significant challenges in AV integration is the common practice of engaging AV consultants and integrators at the last minute. He recalls a particularly challenging project in recent time, where an IT client from the U.S. faced substantial issues due to late AV involvement. “They came in at the last moment and started ripping open the partitions and ceilings because the cabling hadn’t been done according to their requirements,” he explains.

Such last-minute interventions can compromise the quality of the interior finishes and lead to unnecessary disruption. The challenge is often compounded by the fact that clients are aware of these potential issues but may be constrained by global partnerships and procurement processes that delay AV integration. This scenario illustrates the importance of early engagement to avoid costly adjustments and maintain project integrity.

The Role of IT in AV Integration

Abhik highlights another crucial aspect of AV integration: the relationship between AV systems and the IT department. In many organizations, especially in corporate settings, AV systems often fall under the purview of the IT department. “Typically, the real estate team, which manages construction and infrastructure, doesn’t have direct control over AV procurement,” he notes. This disconnect can lead to delays as projects transition through the IT department’s processes, prolonging timelines and creating frustration for all parties involved.

To address these challenges, Abhik advocates for the integration of AV planning from the very beginning. He provides a practical example: “If you’re purchasing furniture like a sleek boardroom table but haven’t made the appropriate provisions for the accompanying technology, it can lead to issues later on.” This highlights the necessity of considering AV elements in the overall design and planning process to ensure a cohesive and functional workspace.

The Importance of Early Engagement with AV Consultants

One common question that arises is whether organizations engage AV consultants during the design stage. Abhik confirms that they do when clients request AV system designs. However, he notes a growing trend where clients’ IT teams act as consultants, occasionally going directly to vendors for assistance. While this approach may seem efficient, it often leads to mixed results.

“The clients manage the process themselves and bring in an integrator just to install the system,” he explains. This can result in a disconnect between the design vision and the final implementation, as not every integrator operates with the integrity necessary to ensure quality. Some may push for unnecessary or overpriced products, leading to a suboptimal outcome.

Abhik emphasizes the value of having a consultant involved from the start. While not entirely unbiased, consultants provide a broader perspective and can mitigate some of the challenges that arise from in-house decision-making. “Having that independent viewpoint can help guide clients toward better solutions,” he adds.

Bridging the Gap: Client Engagement and Understanding

When discussing how to bridge the gap between various stakeholders, Abhik highlights the client’s role in recognizing the importance of AV integration. “It starts with the client understanding that AV is a key part of the overall design,” he explains. Whether it’s an interactive display or a boardroom setup, every element contributes to the user experience. If AV isn’t integrated smoothly, the experience suffers, which can diminish the effectiveness of the workspace.

For example, Abhik points to the impact of camera placement in meeting rooms. “A poorly positioned camera can result in awkward angles or poor visibility, impacting video calls.” He also underscores the importance of lighting, especially in boardrooms, where even light distribution can enhance video quality and create a more professional atmosphere.

To foster a culture of collaboration, Abhik emphasizes the importance of engaging the IT team from the outset. “We encourage clients to involve their IT teams in the discussions from day one,” he states. By doing so, all elements of the project can be thoroughly considered, minimizing the risk of oversights that can compromise the final outcome.

Understanding Client Needs and Procurement Processes

The procurement process often raises questions about whose recommendations clients follow when selecting AV systems. Abhik notes that clients generally rely on his team’s suggestions but emphasizes the importance of remaining within the client’s comfort zone. “If a client is comfortable with a specific brand, we work around that,” he explains. However, he also acknowledges that Crestron and other brands may not offer comprehensive solutions, necessitating the inclusion of other elements in the overall design.

Ultimately, the decision-making process varies from project to project. While Abhik’s team provides expert recommendations, the final call often rests with the client, especially when they choose to finalize procurement directly.

Navigating Communication Challenges with AV Teams

Effective communication between design and AV teams is crucial for successful project outcomes. Abhik notes that while many AV professionals are open and receptive, there are occasions when some may become unreasonable or non-cooperative. “Sometimes, they only think from a technical perspective and do not consider the broader design implications,” he points out.

Navigating these challenges requires patience and a commitment to understanding each team’s perspective. Abhik emphasizes the importance of building relationships and fostering open lines of communication, as this can significantly enhance collaboration and lead to better results.

The Future of AV Integration in Corporate Projects

Looking ahead, Abhik is optimistic about the evolving landscape of AV integration. He observes that clients are becoming increasingly aware of the importance of comprehensive planning and collaboration from the outset. “Clients have started to recognize what might go wrong, especially as many companies are managing multiple projects simultaneously,” he explains. Lessons learned from past experiences encourage clients to engage all relevant stakeholders early in the process, which paves the way for smoother project deliveries in the future.

As the corporate landscape continues to evolve, the integration of AV systems will remain a critical component of successful project management. Abhik Roy’s insights serve as a valuable reminder of the importance of early engagement, collaboration and understanding in achieving optimal outcomes in corporate real estate and workplace design. By prioritizing these principles, organizations can create work environments that not only enhance productivity but also foster innovation and collaboration among teams.