1. The dawn of two-in-one solutions

In the coming year, we expect to see a greater interest and push towards two-in-one product solutions that offer customers more streamlined and flexible solutions. This evolution benefits consumers who want powerful products that are easy to control and can do more than one job. Customers who are especially sensitive to aesthetics will appreciate the simple two-in-one offerings.

Additionally, integrators will benefit from these new solutions by having a chance to break into different areas via crossover products. For example, technicians who primarily worked in audio or lighting, might now be able to broaden their offerings, helping them qualify for more bids and add upsell opportunities.

1. Greater remote management capabilities

Due to the complexity, time and cost involved in visiting a job site to diagnose a problem, we expect to see integrators increasingly rely on remote management tools. The most powerful solutions provide consolidated customer service information and intuitive interfaces that give full access to a system’s information as well as the ability to enter pertinent information and updates about the project and the clients.

As consumer expectations rise, with an emphasis on better and faster service, integrators must be able to keep up. Oftentimes, with sophisticated remote management solutions, technicians can be alerted to an issue and address it remotely before the client is even aware of the problem.

1. Lighting up the future

With consumers continuing to spend more time at home, be it for work, relaxing or entertaining, personalised lighting experiences are critical to help set any mood, regardless of activity or time of day. In the coming year, consumers will want and expect professional-looking installations that can help them enjoy their living spaces.

Just as homes have adapted for technology, lighting has evolved beyond traditional can lights and decorative fixtures to now showcase more complex lighting experiences for every need and budget. New lighting advancements also support circadian health, a growing wellness concern that mimics nature with bright, cool light during the day that slowly dims and warms in the evening.

1. Increased customisation and accessibility

Today’s lifestyles are increasingly defined by smart technologies, and we expect consumer interest in the industry to continue growing. With innovative products and solutions entering the market on a consistent basis, consumers have never had more choices and flexibility to help them realise their smart home goals.

To get robust, reliable and fully integrated ecosystems, clients must forgo DIY products. As a result, we anticipate the role of integrators and tech professionals will continue to become even more important to helping consumers get the smart solutions they want. Similarly, we anticipate that smart home technology will continue on the path to becoming more accessible and affordable to the average consumer.

1. Partner engagement 

We’re committed to helping partners sustain and grow, long-term relationships with their customers and we envision a future in which the partner is every bit as important to the homeowner as a doctor, mechanic, or accountant is today.

We expect the AV industry and integrators to continue collaborating to be able to offer customers the latest and greatest products and services while streamlining and reducing installation costs.