Switching from D-Tools? Here’s What You Need to Know

For years, D-Tools has been one of the most well-known software platforms in the AV industry. It helped integrators design systems, manage projects, and generate detailed proposals. But as the AV world becomes more fast-paced and digitally connected, many integrators are rethinking the tools they use. If you’re one of them and considering making a change, you’re not alone.

Whether you’re looking for a more intuitive user experience, faster project turnaround, or the flexibility of a cloud-based system, it’s important to know what to expect when switching from D-Tools. The good news is that modern solutions are making it easier than ever to improve your AV design workflow without the steep learning curve or legacy software limitations.

At the top of this list is XTEN-AV, the leading platform for AV system design, documentation, and proposal generation. XTEN-AV is one of the most complete D-Tools alternatives for AV integrators, offering advanced automation, collaboration, and cloud access in a user-friendly package.

Here’s everything you need to know before making the switch.


Why More Integrators Are Moving Away from D-Tools

D-Tools has long been known for its comprehensive feature set, but with that power comes complexity. Integrators often report several challenges, including:

  • A steep learning curve that slows down onboarding

  • Limited remote access due to desktop-based architecture

  • Time-consuming proposal formatting

  • Rigid workflows that don’t support real-time collaboration

  • High costs for small teams or freelance AV professionals

These issues can make even basic projects feel unnecessarily complicated. Today’s AV professionals need speed, flexibility, and cloud access—which legacy software often cannot deliver.


Meet XTEN-AV: The Future of AV System Design

XTEN-AV was created specifically to solve the problems that AV integrators face with older tools. It is a cloud-based platform that allows users to design systems, generate schematics, produce rack and cable layouts, and create branded proposals—all in one place.

What makes XTEN-AV different?

  • Cloud-Based Access: Work from anywhere—no software installations required

  • Drag-and-Drop System Design: Quickly create accurate designs with automated signal flows

  • Automated Documentation: Instantly generate rack layouts, cable schedules, and bill of materials

  • Real-Time Proposal Generation: Turn your design into a client-ready proposal with just a few clicks

  • AI-Driven Recommendations: Get smart suggestions for compatible devices and signal paths

  • Collaboration Tools: Invite team members or clients to collaborate in real time

If you are comparing D-Tools alternatives for AV integrators, XTEN-AV checks every box.


What to Prepare Before Switching

Switching from D-Tools to a new platform is easier when you are organized. Here are a few steps to take before starting the migration:

1. Review Your Current Projects

Export your open projects, including product lists, designs, and notes. This helps you recreate or migrate the essentials in your new platform.

2. Back Up Your Data

Make sure all your important files, such as BOMs, client proposals, and diagrams, are backed up. Even if you won’t transfer every detail, it’s helpful to keep historical records.

3. List Must-Have Features

Clarify what you need in your next tool. Most integrators prioritize design speed, accuracy, proposal generation, and cloud access.

4. Communicate With Your Team

Let your team know about the upcoming change. Provide training resources and explain how the new platform will improve their workflow.


Making the Switch to XTEN-AV: Step-by-Step

Once you’re ready to move on from D-Tools, here’s how to get started with XTEN-AV.

Step 1: Sign Up and Set Up

Create your XTEN-AV account and customize your workspace. You can add company branding, logos, proposal templates, and team members.

Step 2: Import or Rebuild Key Projects

Use XTEN-AV’s intuitive interface to rebuild important system designs. With drag-and-drop tools and AI suggestions, the process is much faster than traditional platforms.

Step 3: Explore the Automation

Try out auto-generated signal flows, rack layouts, and cable schedules. These features save hours of manual work and ensure consistent documentation.

Step 4: Generate a Proposal

Once your design is ready, create a proposal instantly with XTEN-AV’s proposal builder. You can choose layouts, add pricing, and include visual schematics—without touching a spreadsheet or word processor.

Step 5: Train and Collaborate

Explore the knowledge base, attend a live demo, or request support. XTEN-AV’s user-friendly platform means most teams can be fully up and running within a day.


Common Questions from Integrators

Will my clients notice the switch?
Yes—and in a good way. Proposals created with XTEN-AV are cleaner, more visual, and easier to understand, helping clients approve projects faster.

Do I need to install anything?
No. XTEN-AV is fully cloud-based. Just log in from any browser to start working.

How long does it take to learn?
Most users are comfortable with the platform within a few hours. Built-in tutorials and live support make onboarding simple.

Is XTEN-AV suitable for residential or small-scale jobs?
Absolutely. Whether you’re designing a home theater or a large conference system, XTEN-AV’s scalable platform adapts to projects of any size.


Real Feedback from AV Professionals

Integrators who have switched from D-Tools to XTEN-AV report major improvements in productivity, proposal speed, and team communication.

“We’ve cut our proposal turnaround time by 70 percent.”
“The cloud-based access alone is a game-changer.”
“XTEN-AV is exactly what we needed—fast, smart, and reliable.”

The common theme? XTEN-AV lets you spend less time on software and more time delivering value to your clients.


Final Thoughts

If you’re considering switching from D-Tools, now is the time. Modern AV integrators need tools that keep up with their workflows—tools that are fast, easy to use, and cloud-accessible. XTEN-AV is the complete solution that covers design, documentation, and proposals in one integrated platform.

When exploring D-Tools alternatives for AV integrators, you will find plenty of options. But only XTEN-AV offers the perfect balance of power, simplicity, and automation to take your business to the next level.

Read more: https://newyorktimesnow.com/blog/why-xten-av-is-the-best-d-tools-alternative

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