No matter how big or small a custom integration firm is, it can be a huge challenge to focus across all businesses. From precision installation, to internet networking, system calibration, contingency plans, programming, and meeting client requests, the “to-do” list can be daunting. While the goal is to do everything to 100% efficiency, something is bound to go wrong. Unfortunately, this usually translates into something not getting done properly or effectively, and the client will probably not be happy with the end result. It is very common to see control system programming suffering the most. There are many reasons why control system programming winds up falling short of the custom integrators expectations, and ultimately, the clients. Control programming can be time consuming and require a good amount of thought and resources. While there are ways to streamline, and “cookie-cut”, no two systems are ever the same, and clients have preferences and priorities that need to be addressed. If every other aspect of installation and calibration is done perfectly, a control system that is not programmed with care and attention will be the client’s final and overall impression. Even in the rare occasion where everything works, the control interface should be something the client takes great pride in, showing off to his neighbors and friends alike. But again, the burden of providing something bullet-proof, simple, entertaining AND stunning rests solely on the shoulders of the installer or programmer. These days hiring a full time employee dedicated only to programming is rare; often these employees “double-up” and then the same problem occurs. The more time and effort dedicated to the programming process, the easier the system will translate to the client, and the more reliable it will be. Making it visually stunning certainly doesn’t hurt, and customized themes can really make a client feel it is a first class operation. Why may companies neglect the programming? There are many reasons:
1) Bandwidth. Shops are so busy these days and after proposals, payroll, accounting, service calls, installation and meetings there really is not a lot of time to program and perfect the craft. Employees are wearing multiple hats and simply do not have the time to dedicate to a decent programming effort.
2) Budget. Everyone wants a full-time programmer (or two), but a smaller shop often need to keep headcount and expenses to a minimum. This forces the installation team to perform functions outside of their range of knowledge or comfort level.
3) Knowledge. Because of bandwidth, it is very difficult for smaller companies to keep up with control system innovations, new features and technologies. This can lead to ineffective programming or programming that resembles a lazy effort on the custom integration company. The firm may have enough time to program, but not enough time to continue training and keeping up with the rest of the market.
4) Desire. If you are a custom integrator you have a unique set of skills and want the client to have the ultimate experience through quality craftsmanship and technical training. You would rather not be bogged down with the commitment to programming and the time it takes to provide the image you want to portray.
We have all seen or come across bad programming on the job. Usually our first impression was that the firm before us was unqualified or not skilled. We realize then the importance of providing our clients with an end product worthy of praise. The controller is the last thing left in the client’s hands before we move on, and that experience they will have every day will reflect how they feel about us, and how they feel about recommending us. By subbing out programming services the installer can benefit in many ways. They can free up time and focus on what they do best. They can save the expense of hiring a full time person dedicated to programming and only use the programming service when they need it. They don’t need to invest money and time in training, graphics and related programming expenses, or keeping up with the latest technology. How does the process work? Here is a typical timeline:
MONDAY 9:00 AM ABC Installations has already reviewed the job and have submitted a proposal to client Smith. Client Smith have called and agreed to the proposal in full and installation has been scheduled for the upcoming Friday morning at 8:00 AM.
MONDAY 3:00 AM ABC installations downloads a client profile sheet from Total Control Remotes website which details all the equipment, specifications and special client requests for client Smith. ABC installations emails the completed file to Total Control Remotes and follows up with a brief phone call to discuss the project.
MONDAY 5:00 AM Total Control Remotes gets backed to ABC Installations with a price quote and minor questions about the install. ABC quickly accepts the pricing which is extremely competitive. Total Control indicates that they need about 2-3 business days to finalize the installation and will have the system files available well in time for the install on Friday.
TUESDAY 2:30 PM Total Control Remotes calls ABC installations to clarify some options and recommends a better way to accomplish one of the many client requests. ABC agrees and saves some money at the same time.
WEDNESDAY 5:00 PM ABC Installation receives the client programming package which consists of the programming file, special instructions, the client profile which details all connections and setup information, and final invoice. Since installation is two days away, ABC does not have to do anything else.
FRIDAY 6:00 PM ABC installations has booked a 5 PM – 6 PM time slot for client support, but is tied up. Total Control Remotes agrees to extend the support time. ABC deploys the system and requests a couple of small changes. Through remote access, Total Control Remotes makes some minor changes to the programming.
FRIDAY 6:30 PM ABC installations has tested the system and has given the client a demo. The client is thrilled with the simplicity and overall design of the remote, and everything works great.
As you can see the process is very organized and predictable. However, subbing out work should not be taken lightly. A company that provides programming for you is an extension of your own. They may or may not interact with the client, but the end product they create can give you a leg up on competition. Also, programming is only as good as the support they offer. Be sure if you need anything on-site or if there is an urgency they are ready to deliver. If the right fit is made, it can alleviate valuable time and allow you to perfect your trade skills – not to mention spend more time with the family.
We can be the ultimate solution for your programming needs. We hesitate to define our role as “subbing out programming” because we take your client’s satisfaction our top priority. Give us a call today to discuss your client’s needs and we can help you.