I have been noticing a promising trend in the world of home automation, homeowners and builders are getting the process started much earlier. This is very important as it is one of the larger decisions you will make regarding your home and really does require a lot of tailoring to get the system right. Since the automated and integrated home needs to have compatible systems to control, the earlier we can come to decisions, the earlier we can share that information with the builder and the sub-contractors. This will make everybody a lot happier about working toward the common goal of a complete home automation system.
Too often do the Audio/Video and Home Automation systems go forgotten until the last minute. We get a lot of calls and emails here from people who are about to Sheetrock and need to get something installed "right away". While this might be OK for a single room surround sound system or a plasma or LCD TV over a fireplace to think that a fully automated and integrated home can simply be designed, finalized and wired in a day is a mistake. Far too much information gets exchanged before pre-wire.
This process should really begin in the planning stage, the earlier you know what you want, the easier it will be to implement. Ideally we would be working with the architect or designer to get the components of the system into the locations they will work best. I have found that the sooner a client is under contract and has access to all the information about the system the smoother their build and installation will go. We give our clients that opportunity by opening ourselves up to them even before they have the plans finalized. Once they do, we work up a system design and allow for changes to be made, often before anyone else(besides the architect) have even gotten started! After the first round of changes or modifications gets made and your budgetary needs are met, a deposit should be made. This not only locks in your pricing, but makes you a client instead of a prospect and clients get all the perks.
No matter the time frame on your build the earlier you become a client the better. We offer the most in depth technical information regarding your system, we will help your builder/subcontractors understand your goals for the system and how they can help you achieve them, we can make suggestions on compatible products and we will provide you with all the installation documents necessary to get the wiring in place to make your system functional. The benefit we have over the other contractors on most jobs is that we have the direct contact with the client, no middle man to communicate your needs. Together with the client we are able to design and make sure that all the steps are taken to create the environment you are looking for.
Get involved early, don't wait until the last minute. Become a client today! We are waiting for your call.
home automation, design, purchase, overview, plan
Posted in General