Why User Experience (UX) Should Be the Heart of AV Design
When people think about audiovisual (AV) systems, they often picture impressive displays, high-quality audio, or cutting-edge control systems. But the real measure of a successful AV solution isn’t the technology itself — it’s how effortlessly people can use it.
At TenFour, we believe User Experience (UX) should sit at the heart of every AV design decision.
Technology Shouldn’t Be the Barrier
You’ve likely experienced it: a meeting delayed because no one knows how to start the video conference. A presentation interrupted by audio issues. A room full of capable professionals held back by complicated controls.
These moments don’t happen because the technology isn’t powerful enough — they happen because it wasn’t designed with the end user in mind.
Great AV design removes friction. It makes the complex feel simple. It ensures that whether someone is tech-savvy or not, they can walk into a space and confidently use the system without needing a manual or IT support on standby.
UX Impacts Productivity and ROI
AV systems are an investment. But the return on that investment is directly tied to how often and how effectively the technology is used.
If a system feels confusing or unreliable, people avoid it. They default to workarounds. They underutilise features that were designed to improve collaboration and efficiency.
When UX is prioritised:
- Meetings start on time
- Hybrid collaboration runs smoothly
- Teams engage more confidently
- Support tickets decrease
- Technology adoption increases
The result? Greater productivity and stronger ROI.
Designing Around Real Users
User-centred AV design starts with understanding how a space will actually be used — not just how it could be used.
Who are the primary users?
How often will the space host hybrid meetings?
Will external guests need access?
Is the room used for presentations, training, or collaboration?
At TenFour, we design systems around real-world workflows. That means intuitive touch panels, consistent user interfaces across rooms, simplified control logic, and clear audio and visual performance that just works.
Consistency is key. When users have the same experience across multiple rooms or sites, confidence builds naturally.
Simplicity is Not Basic — It’s Intentional
There’s a misconception that “simple” AV systems are less sophisticated. In reality, simplicity is the result of thoughtful design.
Behind a clean interface is careful programming. Behind one-touch meeting start is strategic system integration. Behind seamless collaboration is rigorous testing and commissioning.
The goal isn’t to showcase the technology — it’s to make it invisible.
UX Doesn’t Stop at Installation
User experience extends beyond the physical system. Training, documentation, remote support, and proactive maintenance all contribute to how people feel about their AV environment.
When users feel supported, they engage with the technology more confidently and effectively.
Putting People First
AV should empower people — not intimidate them.
By placing UX at the centre of design, organisations create spaces that encourage collaboration, reduce friction, and enhance performance.
Because ultimately, the best AV system isn’t the one with the most features.
It’s the one people actually enjoy using.