Beyond the Rack: How AV Consultants Are Redefining Their Role in the Age of AI
- Aug 12, 2026

AI, networked AV, cybersecurity, and increasingly intelligent collaboration technologies are reshaping the role of the AV consultant. Today, the work extends well beyond equipment selection to include strategic planning, standardization, lifecycle considerations, and coordination across AV, IT, security, and facilities.
SM&W Senior Principal and Global AV Discipline Leader Mark L. Peterson joined other industry leaders to discuss how consultants are helping clients navigate this growing complexity while maintaining an independent, client-focused perspective.
Read the full article at Commercial Integrator.
Author

Mark Peterson
Senior Principal
Global Audiovisual Discipline Leader
Corporate Market Leader
New York
Guest Author

Alyssa Borelli
Senior Editor
Commercial Integrator