In 2026, AV/IT integrators must evolve into multifaceted entities, combining software development, research, and consulting practices, as per Doug Schaefer, CTO of American Sound. The company’s innovative space, dubbed “Pete’s Pizzeria,” fosters prototyping and trialing new ideas to stay ahead in a fast-paced industry. American Sound recently launched an open-source MCP server for the Utelogy platform, which enhances AI integration by providing real-time data on rooms, devices, and alerts, crucial for AV operations. Schaefer emphasizes that AI is accelerating the necessity for open tooling, making it a vital resource for IT professionals. The server allows users to query their live environments, improving operational efficiency. American Sound encourages industry peers to utilize and refine this tool, thereby elevating industry standards. Their commitment to leveraging AI reflects a dedication to revolutionizing ITIL-based AV service delivery. Discover the MCP server here.
