Heading into a Large A/V Project?
Mt. Zion has these tips for you.
Looking back at their building project, the Mt. Zion team has these words of wisdom to offer churches that are heading into their own large-scale building or renovation project.
"Find a company that will sweat with you," states Associate Pastor Richard J. Nowik. "Someone that you can really trust. If you have to pay upfront to get along, really think about what that relationship will look like at the end of the project."
And Bob Sullivan, President of Advanced Lighting & Sound and project manager/designer of the Mt. Zion audio, video and lighting systems, agrees. "More than likely this is your first attempt at doing anything of this scale. Find a consultant or design/build company you can work with. They undoubtedly have done numerous projects and know where the pitfalls are."
"You need to develop a good relationship where they will hear what you are saying," he continues, "and are able to help you understand what is right or wrong in your overall direction or plan. Then, you need to trust them. Everyone has the desire to be the go-to guy or the professional, but what is most important is to do the best job for the church while being good stewards of the project budget."
In addition to the relational aspects of a project, it's also important not to fall into the snare of going with the latest fad, or wanting to duplicate what worked for another ministry. "Many times people get caught up in name brands or having a 'me-too system' just to keep up with another church," Sullivan relates. "Each project is unique in many ways and it is important to step back and evaluate decisions based upon that. Pray about your decisions and make sure the choices made are for His glory and not your own."
Jim Kumorek is the owner of Spreading Flames Media, providing video/media production and writing services to the A/V/L, technology, architectural and hospitality industries. He has led audio, video and lighting teams in churches as both staff and a volunteer for over 10 years. He can be contacted at james@spreadingflamesmedia.com.
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