Mission
The Consultant Council would like to function as an advocacy group with a global focus that cultivates rising talent and promotes the role of consultants to the wider market.
2025 Goals:
- Build on the published Consultants definition with descriptions of standards of services and practices.
- Actively promote and engage with Consultants on the AVIXA Xchange to increase awareness
- Support consultant members creating local meetups to build community at the local level.
Consultants Council Chair
Lloyd Ranola, CTS-D, CDT
Sr. Technology Systems Designer
HGA
Who We Are as AV Consultants
We provide a range of advisory, design and management services across all markets. There are two types of consultant members:
- Independent Consultants: These consultants earn solely by providing consulting services and do not receive benefits from manufacturers, suppliers, vendors, or third parties. They offer consulting and contract administration services for a fee and use their own resources for intellectual property and skills.
- Affiliate Consultants: These consultants work for or are aligned with manufacturers, vendors, or suppliers, and may receive incentives to recommend certain products or services. They typically provide consulting, contract administration, and may act as in-house consultants.
Both types of consultants aim to deliver quality work by honestly advising clients and aligning with their objectives. They must disclose their category, manage conflicts of interest, ensure the fulfillment of client goals, and take responsibility for outcomes. They offer services that cover planning, design, management, and the operation of audiovisual systems, without being limited to specific products or vendors unless directed by the client.
What We Do as AV Consultants
We design and guide the implementation of technology systems that improve communication, collaboration, and user experience. From early planning to post-occupancy support, we act as trusted advisors and advocates for our clients.We also provide owners representation during technology planning, budgeting, and strategy development.
Our services include:
- Needs Assessment & Planning – We work with stakeholders to define technology goals, user needs, and space functionality.
- System Design – We create coordinated, detailed AV system designs tailored to the project and user experience.
- Budgeting – We provide cost estimates, budgeting guidance, and support value engineering to align with project goals.
- Documentation – We deliver drawings, specs, and manuals to guide installation and ensure long-term system success.
- Procurement Support – We assist with RFPs, review bids, and help clients select qualified vendors and integrators.
- Construction Oversight – We monitor implementation to protect design intent and serve as advocates for the owner.
- Acceptance Testing – We verify that systems function as designed and support the owner through final adjustments.