Audio Visual System Upgrade Project Management
The cause for the IFCBC audio visual system upgrade was twofold. Firstly, the outdated analogue system in place for several decades had become a source of operational hindrances, often manifesting as buzzes and noises during Sunday services. The multitude of cables spanning from the stage to the audio-visual control room at the sanctuary's opposite end made adjustments and maintenance a cumbersome task. Secondly, feedback from the audio-visual operators highlighted issues with the line of sight and audibility due to a wall that enclosed them.
Scope
The project entailed a complete replacement of all audio-visual equipment — encompassing everything from the stage setup and house monitors to nursery speakers and the entirety of the control room's devices. Beyond the audio visual system replacement, the upgrade extended to a comprehensive remodeling of the audio-visual control room, involving structural alterations such as creating an opening in the existing wall, elevating the floor, and ensuring ample space for the operators.
Timeline & Budget
Initiated in February 2019, the project reached completion in August 2019. With an initial budget of $20,000 earmarked for the audio-visual equipment, the final spend tallied up to $20,700. Thanks to the hands-on involvement of church members in the control room remodeling, the entire project's expenditure remained under $25,000.
Stakeholders & Collaboration
Key stakeholders steering this endeavor included our Lead Pastor, the Chinese Minister, the Board of Directors, a supportive audio-visual vendor, and a benevolent donor who bore the bulk of the equipment costs.
Challenges & Solutions
Several challenges arose during the project's lifespan:
A divergence of opinion between our Board's President and Treasurer regarding the project's necessity was resolved through mediating discussions and system design tweaks that addressed the Treasurer's reservations.
A vendor quote exceeding our allocated budget prompted a revision of the proposed equipment and successful negotiations, bringing down the quote to a more acceptable $20,700.
An unplanned, early initiation of control room remodeling by the Board's President necessitated the improvisation of a temporary audio-visual system to cater to Sunday services in the interim phase before the vendor's equipment installation.
Outcomes
The timely completion of this project fortuitously aligned with California's Covid-19 shelter-in-place mandate. With the new system's live-streaming capabilities, our church could seamlessly transition to online Sunday services, a feat virtually unachievable with the previous setup.
Reception
The upgraded system garnered widespread appreciation from all stakeholders, including the initially skeptical Treasurer, who recognized its value in the face of the pandemic-induced restrictions. Board members, church attendees, and especially the audio-visual operators have lauded both the state-of-the-art system and the revamped control room for its efficiency, clarity, and the enhanced visibility and audibility it affords.