InfoComm International, a trade association representing the professional audiovisual industry, has launched a website aimed at educating architects and building professionals about the role of audiovisual applications in building design. The site, http://www.ctsforav.com/, offers examples of innovative projects that bring together outstanding design with exceptional communications capabilities. An online directory allows building professionals to connect with qualified companies with Certified Technology Specialists on staff - the only audiovisual certification credential that is accredited by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI).
"Most audiovisual equipment is networked and installed into the built environment," says Randal A. Lemke, PhD, executive director, InfoComm International. "AV brings buildings to life, whether it is facilitating effective communication in boardrooms, directing visitors in lobbies with digital signage, or connecting campuses around the world through videoconferencing. As technology has become increasingly complex, it is critical for architects, general contractors, and facility managers to partner with qualified AV professionals early in the building or renovation process. This new website is an important step to bringing the building and AV communities closer together."
InfoComm operates the Certified Technology Specialist program, with close to 10,000 certified audiovisual professionals worldwide holding the credential. The CTS and the advanced CTS-Installation (CTS-I) designations are the only AV credentials that are ANSI accredited under the International Standard ISO/IEC 17024 General Requirements for Bodies Operating Certification Schemes of Persons program. InfoComm also maintains an advanced CTS-Design credential (CTS-D), which will be evaluated for ANSI accreditation in the fourth quarter of 2008.
InfoComm also produces quality publications documenting audiovisual best practices. Architectural firms can visit www.ctsforav.com to learn how to obtain a free copy of the 214-page book Audiovisual Best Practices: The Design and Integration Process for the AV and Construction Industries.