Updated post. Original published February 15, 2024.

Oftentimes, AV integrators do not readily understand the connection with Drone Solutions, or why they should be interested. Once they connect the dots, the value proposition is clear, and then it just becomes a discussion at the executive level on how best to move forward.

The bottom line is that commercial drone use is expanding at an accelerated growth rate, and it is a safe bet that at least 10-20% of an AV integrator’s current customers are already using commercial drones to accomplish a variety of different commercial tasks – purchased through other channels. That would equal anywhere from $50K to $300K or more in annual sales that could be incorporated into an AV integrator’s business, simply by having the conversation with their customer to understand if they are using commercial drones and letting those customers know they could purchase the product from them.

Based on the current state of the market, those customers are in 1 of 2 stages – either exploring the adoption of a drone program or expanding/updating equipment for a current program.  If they are exploring adoption, then an experienced AV integration company that they already do business with and trust can become their go-to source for this new and confusing technology with our help, if needed.  If they are in a product refresh cycle or expanding, then an AV integrator that they already know and trust can provide the necessary product on a consolidated purchase order.

Getting involved in the Drone Solutions category is a low-cost way to enter this new market with significant demonstrated growth and opportunity.  We are here to help AV integrators get their feet on the ground in this area by providing subject matter expertise and content training to help quickly bring an integrator up to speed.

The Drone Solutions category is meant to provide a one-stop shop for experienced and novice integrators to find relevant manufacturers that have products associated with solutions that their end-users are looking for.  The Drone Solutions category brings together the various relevant drone hardware manufacturers, along with the needed addons like software for data analysis, potential Command and Control options (think traditional AV tech), and associated services, like training, into an environment where they can all be put on one purchase order.

Contact your Almo Pro AV account manager today to let them know you are interested in learning more about this exciting opportunity.

About the Author

Eric Jameson

Business Development Manager

Supported Drones Manufacturers: ACSL, GeoCue, KSI Data Science, Pierce Aerospace, RtRobotics, Sony Imaging, Vantage Robotics, SensorOps

Two separate markets, Drone Solutions and Professional AV Technology, are converging in ways that promise groundbreaking possibilities. At Exertis Almo, we are at the forefront of connecting these two industries, fostering a connection that will bring innovation to new heights.

Drone solutions, a recent player in comparison to the well-established Professional AV industry, are rapidly growing in popularity and presence. Although the drone market is less mature, its potential is undeniable, especially as these solutions are becoming increasingly common in a variety of applications.

Drone technology is not merely capturing visuals; it’s harnessing data for groundbreaking applications. From creating intricate 3D models to providing temperature readings, drone solutions enable a comprehensive understanding of environments, and the ability to review this collected data allows for proactive issue resolution.

A Command and Control Center – a large space equipped with many different screens – allows for the monitoring and control of a drone from an external location. Specifically in public safety applications, this extensive control space is integral for managing drone functions remotely, ensuring efficiency and precision in critical operations.

One growing challenge that we aim to address is the understanding of data – and where it’s going. From command-and-control centers and workbenches to office spaces and beyond, we can help provide a solution that integrates this data flow.

On the flip side, the Professional AV industry, although daunting to some, has a vast customer base. By acknowledging the extensive reach of the AV industry, we hope to unlock new avenues of collaboration with drone technology. Enter Exertis Almo – our mission is to encourage AV integrators to inquire about their customers’ data collection and command and control needs. With applications spanning government, education, public safety, and more, drones can play an important role in the Pro AV ecosystem.

Furthermore, Exertis Almo has recently partnered with SDI, offering training services available to Pro AV customers venturing into the realm of drones. This includes training programs and service support, empowering Pro AV integrators to seamlessly incorporate drones into their offerings.

Learn more about the extensive drone offerings now available at Exertis Almo.

Matt Callari

Director of Sales – Photo, UAV, Retail