On several occasions we have received calls from an architect or builder who has gotten an angry complaint from a client for whom he has designed or built a million-dollar-plus home.  The complaint is typically presented like this, "We recently visited a neighbor's home that was built at the same time as ours and it has all kinds of electronic features that you never even discussed with us!"  This is a complaint that is almost impossible to satisfy or overcome.

How can you make sure that you are prepared to offer your clients the knowledge to deliver them a home that is technologically correct and up-to-date?  It is a difficult task.  Our company specializes in this small niche of the home building industry (known as structured wiring and electronic integration, or designing smart houses), and it is a difficult task for us as a specialist to keep up with the rapid changes in our industry.  The advances are coming more rapidly than in any other area of home building.  Each and every trade magazine that we receive describes new improvements in existing technology and even whole new concepts that are hitting the market.  Continuing education is a constant and time-demanding part of our business.

However, the neighbor's house that created the complaint, the one with all the latest bells and whistles, probably was wired and integrated correctly because the homeowners presented their expectations to the architect, as opposed to the architect presenting all the possibilities to their client.  All Americans, especially those desiring to build high-end homes, are becoming more technologically knowledgeable simply because it is now part of our culture.  I warn you to be prepared because more and more you will be dealing with clients that know more than you do about this concept of lifestyle through integrated electronic components.

Unlike many other home building components that you are required to have extensive knowledge about, like HVAC or wind-load requirements, in the area of low-voltage wiring there are no codes to follow; we do not have any regulatory standards or any inspectors.  The biggest challenge is to meet the current and future expectations of our well-informed clients.  Perhaps "well-informed" is a misnomer in this instance, because the client is generally only aware of the gadgets that can be installed and lifestyle possibilities offered by a technologically correct home.  But they have no idea of the complexity of planning, design or installation of the structured wiring required to make these things work.  And yes, many of them will have the attitude, "If we are paying these fees, you should already know this technology!"

How can you "be prepared" to satisfy these expectant clients?  I have four suggestions:

1.  Take full advantage of the many continuing education programs offered by your professional organizations and the manufacturers that service the home electronics industry.  These learning opportunities are now almost always offered at conventions and regional seminars.  Many manufacturers will actually send representatives to your office to conduct accredited mini-courses.

2.  Subscribe to and read one of the several trade magazines devoted exclusively to home electronics and integration.  I have to warn many of the terms that are used in these publications might initially seem like Greek.  However, we all went through this technical jargon learning curve when we attempted to become literate in the new world of the PC, and eventually, most of us have assimilated enough of that language to function.  I would suggest TecHome Builder magazine.

3.  In any burgeoning new technological trend there will always be members of the profession who are the pioneers in embracing it.  Ask around and find architects or builders who are ahead of the curve in offering this component to their clients on a comprehensive basis.  Talk to them and visit projects that are in construction, as well as completed homes, to learn of the potential alternatives that you should be discussing with your clients.

4.  I firmly believe that your very best source of information for preparedness will come from a qualified specialized structured wiring contractor.  First, get references from your peers and then meet with them to inspect jobs and talk to the homeowners they have worked with.  If you make this contact correctly, you will soon have the confidence to have your clients meet directly with the subcontractor to make their home integration decisions.  These meetings are the core service of our business.

Fact:  The majority of luxury homes built in the last five years are not equipped with a comprehensive wiring plan that will handle the growth in technology.  Together, we can make homes future-ready to meet your client's ongoing expectations.  Let's "be prepared."

This is the fifth in a series of articles by Mike Riley, who has over 30-years of experience in home electronics.  Progressive Integrations, Inc.., is owned by Mike and Yvonne Riley and is located at 3424 Maybank Highway, Johns Island, SC  29455.  Contact us for a consultation today.