Lisa Harbert: The Woman Behind America’s AV Powerhouse

Lisa Harbert stands as a shining example of how personal belief, resilience, and strategic thinking can create not just a company, but a legacy. In 2001, alongside her husband Roger Harbert, she founded Digital Display Solutions (DDSAV), an audio-visual integration company headquartered in San Antonio, Texas. At the core of her journey lies a defining principle: owning one’s success means accepting full responsibility for both triumphs and setbacks.

With a $350,000 personal investment and a dream to build something meaningful, Lisa took a leap of faith. She was driven not by just business opportunity, but by a deep desire to take control of her future, backed by years of experience, insight, and determination.

“We define what success looks like, then work backward to design it into reality.”

– Lisa Harbert

Turning a Vision into Reality: The Birth of DDSAV

The decision to start DDSAV was not impulsive; it was intentional and strategic. When Lisa withdrew a significant amount from her savings and handed over a certified check to fund the business, the bank teller asked if she trusted the recipients enough to invest so much. Her response was confident and clear: she was investing in herself and her husband. That mindset remains at the heart of DDSAV’s philosophy: every success is earned, every mistake is a lesson.

Digital Display Solutions was launched to serve a growing need for intelligent, scalable, and reliable audio-visual integration. From the outset, Lisa emphasized values over profit, building a company grounded in ethical decision-making, quality service, and constant innovation.

Technology That Connects, Not Just Performs

Operating in a space driven by constant change, DDSAV carved its niche by offering tailored AV systems for high-impact environments emergency operation centers, corporate boardrooms, higher education, and even churches. The company is known for mastering complexity, whether it’s designing smart boardrooms or integrating hybrid Zoom environments.

Lisa’s leadership ensures that every project starts with one central question: what does success look like? That question guides the team as they reverse-engineer systems to deliver measurable results. DDSAV doesn’t merely install equipment; it builds experiences, helps organizations communicate better, and fosters productivity through smart design.

A Culture Rooted in People and Purpose

Lisa believes that technology means little without the people who drive it. At DDSAV, team culture is considered sacred. Employees are trained, supported, and placed in roles where they can thrive based on their strengths and passions. Tools like StrengthsFinder help the company assess how individuals can best contribute.

“Family First” isn’t a slogan; it’s a way of life. Employees are encouraged to attend important family events, leave early for their children’s milestones, or take time off when needed. Lisa personally invests time into knowing her team, learning what motivates them, and even cooking for them. Her leadership style is rooted in empathy, connection, and accountability.

Giving Back Through Service and Solutions

Beyond business, DDSAV has made community service a key pillar. When a children’s shelter struggled with outdated AV systems for its board meetings, the company donated and installed a modern setup completely free. During the pandemic, the team volunteered with local food banks and developed safety-enhancing technologies like UVC lighting systems proven to kill airborne viruses.

Lisa introduced new digital solutions such as a virtual receptionist system named “Hello,” which allows contactless visitor management. This reflects her belief that innovation should serve humanity making places safer, more efficient, and cost-effective.

From DDSAV to DTS: The Next Chapter

Rebranding as Digital Technology Solutions (DTS) marks the company’s forward momentum. A new commercial showroom near San Antonio Airport will showcase the latest in AV and hybrid meeting technologies. This expansion includes a dedicated interiors division to provide a complete integration package: technology, furnishings, and design in one solution.

The company also plans to develop branded AV products, launch a leasing model under “AV as a Service,” and host educational webinars to keep clients updated on tech trends. These strategic moves aim to position DTS as the leading commercial technology partner across the U.S.

“Culture isn’t a buzzword here; it’s the engine that drives our excellence forward.”

– Lisa Harbert

Faith, Balance, and Living with Intention

While Lisa leads a dynamic business, she also serves as a Senior Minister in San Antonio. Her faith plays a vital role in how she navigates challenges, both personal and professional. She leads a church equipped with AV systems installed by her company, a full-circle reflection of passion and purpose.

At home, she creates boundaries especially on weekends to preserve family time and mental clarity. Business is important, but balance is essential.

Looking to the Future with Vision and Grace

The AV industry is poised for massive growth, and Lisa plans to position DTS as a market leader. The new technology showroom will serve as both a sales hub and innovation lab. Plans include creating in-house branded products and expanding operations into new markets.

DTS also aims to launch a unique monthly leasing plan giving clients access to the latest AV tools with full support. Lisa envisions a future where her company becomes America’s go-to commercial technology store, not just for products, but for trusted expertise.

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