Case Study: Using ConnectCAD in a University AV Project

Universities today rely on advanced audiovisual (AV) systems to support lectures, hybrid classrooms, online learning, and interactive events. Designing these systems requires accuracy, clarity, and collaboration between designers, consultants, and installation teams. One of the most powerful tools available for this work is Vectorworks ConnectCAD. It provides a structured and efficient way to design, document, and deliver AV projects at scale.

In this case study, we will explore how ConnectCAD was used in a real-world university AV project. From the early design stages to the final installation, we will highlight how the software streamlined workflows, solved common challenges, and ultimately improved communication between stakeholders.

Project Background

The university in focus was upgrading several lecture halls, seminar rooms, and a large auditorium to support hybrid teaching. This meant that AV systems had to integrate microphones, cameras, displays, control systems, and streaming equipment. The project team included an AV design consultant, the university’s IT department, and an installation contractor.

A key challenge was ensuring that every stakeholder had access to clear system drawings, accurate device lists, and reliable documentation. Without these, delays and misunderstandings could lead to increased costs and missed deadlines. This is where Vectorworks ConnectCAD became the foundation of the project.

The Role of ConnectCAD in Early Design

The project started with system schematics. ConnectCAD allowed the AV consultant to create device diagrams that showed how each piece of equipment would connect within the network. This included:

Microphones and DSPs for sound processing
PTZ cameras for lecture capture
Projectors and large displays for content sharing
Control systems for managing devices
Network equipment for AV-over-IP distribution

With ConnectCAD, the design team produced clear and accurate drawings that could be shared with the IT department and university staff. These diagrams became the foundation of discussions, making it easy to visualize system layouts and identify potential gaps.

Device Symbols and Documentation

One of the strongest benefits of ConnectCAD is the use of standardized device symbols. In this project, the design consultant used a library of symbols to represent each device. This made the drawings more consistent and easier for installers to interpret.

The software also generated device reports and equipment lists automatically. For a university project with dozens of rooms, this was essential. Rather than manually tracking every camera, cable, or processor, ConnectCAD ensured that every item was accounted for in the documentation.

Scaling Across Multiple Rooms

Universities often require AV systems that repeat across classrooms. ConnectCAD’s efficiency came into play here as the consultant reused templates and layouts for multiple rooms. Adjustments could be made easily to accommodate room size, seating arrangements, or specific faculty requirements.

This scalability ensured that the design process was not only efficient but also consistent. Every room followed a standard while still allowing for flexibility.

Collaboration Between Teams

The real strength of using Vectorworks ConnectCAD in this project was how it improved collaboration. Installers had access to schematic drawings that were easy to follow. IT staff could review the designs and ensure that networking requirements were met. Faculty representatives could visualize how AV systems would work in their classrooms.

Because the software outputs both 2D schematics and associated documentation, it eliminated many of the misunderstandings that typically occur in AV projects.

Installation and Verification

During installation, the contractors relied heavily on the ConnectCAD diagrams. Every connection was documented, reducing guesswork and minimizing errors. The equipment lists generated by the software helped the procurement team order the right quantities, preventing last-minute shortages.

When testing began, the documentation provided by ConnectCAD made troubleshooting straightforward. If a camera was not functioning or a display did not receive a signal, installers could refer to the drawings and quickly trace connections.

Project Outcomes

The university AV project was completed on time and within budget. Faculty were able to use the new systems confidently, and the IT department had full documentation of every device and connection.

The benefits of using Vectorworks ConnectCAD included:

Faster design and approval process
Consistent and scalable designs across multiple rooms
Accurate documentation for procurement and installation
Better collaboration among all project stakeholders
Reduced errors during installation and commissioning

Lessons Learned

This case study demonstrates how ConnectCAD is more than just a drawing tool. It is a workflow solution that supports every stage of an AV project. For universities and other large institutions, the ability to manage complex designs across multiple spaces is critical.

The project team highlighted that without ConnectCAD, the documentation burden would have been overwhelming. By automating reports and standardizing designs, the software allowed the team to focus on problem-solving rather than paperwork.

Conclusion

In modern AV projects, accuracy and efficiency are not optional—they are essential. As shown in this university project, Vectorworks ConnectCAD provides the tools needed to achieve both. From design and documentation to installation and testing, the software streamlines workflows and ensures that every stakeholder stays aligned.

For universities looking to modernize their classrooms or organizations planning complex AV installations, ConnectCAD stands out as a proven solution that drives success.