How to Get the Most Out of Assisted Listening Systems

Implementation Tips for Churches, Schools, and Performing Arts Centers

We’ve helped venues throughout Oakland, CA, with their audiovisual needs since 1981. Through hundreds of projects, we’ve done a lot to help the clients in our community. Out of all our installations, some of the ones we’re proudest of are assisted listening systems. These amplify sound and, in turn, create greater inclusivity and clarity of communication. They're vital in many venues, from churches where congregations gather for reflection and community, to classrooms for effective and equitable learning. 

Over the years, we’ve found that the needs of each venue will dictate the ideal system. This blog aims to delve into the specifics of implementing and utilizing these systems in three key venues: churches, classrooms, and performance arts centers.

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Assisted Listening Systems in Churches

Assistive listening technology is common in churches where congregations of varying ages and hearing abilities come together. This added audio clarity ensures every sermon, hymn, and announcement is accessible to all, including those with hearing impairments. Assistive listening enhances the overall worship experience, encourages greater participation in service, and guarantees you meet all accessibility standards in your area. 

We guide our clients on the ideal system for their house of worship based on their acoustical properties, budget constraints and the types of events they offer. We’ll then advise you on how to train volunteers and staff on how it works and how to make the necessary apps or devices accessible to congregants that need to use it. We recommend digital signage and informative sessions to promote the availability of this feature. 

Assisted Listening in Educational Environments 

Assisted listening is vital to creating an effective and equitable learning environment. A study found that 37% of those with mild hearing loss failed at least one grade. The right technology solutions ensure students receive the same quality of education, irrespective of their hearing abilities.

When installing assistive technology in a school, it's important to consider classroom size, the layout, and even the age of the students. Even your teaching schedules and approaches could play a part. For example, should you go with fixed systems for consistency in static classroom settings or portable ones that allow for flexible teaching scenarios? 

We’ll guide you on how to create campus-wide integration of these systems, including advice on training students and educators on the benefits of assisted listening and how to access it. Additionally, we’ll provide proactive maintenance and support to eliminate costly downtime. 

Assisted Listening in Performing Arts Centers

Whether for a concert, stand up, or play, performers and staff obsess over every detail. How can the venue showcase it as they intended? The first steps are high-performance AV equipment. For the best performing arts centers, it also means assisted listening systems that ensure every patron gets the same experience. 

The vastness of the space and intricate sound design of productions make assistive listening technology particularly hard to implement in these spaces. That's why sound engineers and stage managers need to be involved in the process. For optimal use, offer a clear process for distributing assisted listening devices or accessing related apps. After implementation, we recommend getting audience feedback to see if any changes to the system or procedures may result in a greater overall experience. 

Hands-on Support for Your System 

We offer a PCD Continuing Support program to maximize system uptime and minimize the maintenance burden for these diverse venues. The PCD Continuing Support Program includes remote engagement for expert support professionals to promptly address system failures. When needed, a technician will be on-site within two business days to resolve issues. The program also includes meaningful reporting with insights into the system's performance and usage. These reports can guide future upgrades or adjustments, ensuring that the systems continue to meet your evolving needs.

Interested in enhancing your venue's auditory experience with assisted listening systems? Call us or fill out our contact form to discover how we can meet your needs.