In the AV world, system integrators (SIs) and distributors both play crucial roles – but should they be played by the same company?

What better way to celebrate March than by shining a light on the incredible women in A&T and AV technology? Writing this blog has been one of the most satisfying experiences because, at A&T, we take immense pride in supporting, and empowering the women who are shaping the future of AV.

What do you see when you visualize a conference room? Typically, a large polished oval table, surrounded by ergonomic chairs, adorned with microphones, notepads, and pens. And as for equipment, ceiling-mounted projector, a laptop on the desk, and a large LED display on one of the walls. Technology, like video conferencing equipment, are present for remote collaboration.

A&T Video Networks, a pioneer in the video conferencing sector, rides high on Make in India initiative with its modern ProAV factory in a tier III town in Tamil Nadu 

When A&T Video Networks set up a factory in Arasanoor, a tier III town in Sivaganga District, South Tamil Nadu, to manufacture Pro AV equipment, a few in the industry thought the venture would see the light of the day. In the highly-competitive and technology-intensive sector, where foreign brands command over 90% of the market share, local production was never considered feasible, mainly because critical components such as chipsets, sensors, lenses and electronic controls have to be sourced abroad. Even in the case of accessories the cost of locally made items is several times higher than the imported ones.