Designer Offers 5 Benefits

Why the end user needs one and how system integrators can work with them

• By Bret Emerson
• Jan 01, 2015

It’s getting harder for building owners and system integrators to keep up with the latest trends in security. Every day there is a new technology emerging and business owners and system integrators need to make sure they are keeping up. By adding a design consultant to the mix, a system integrator can work more effectively with the end user, and the end user will know that the systems are designed to specifically meet their unique needs.

When a designer is hired by an end user to design a system, they have some control in how the system is bid out and how the owner might choose to install the systems. In order to be considered for a job, the designer needs to know the integrators in each region of the country, the systems the integrator sells and installs and the quality of their work. By being a known integrator that does good work, there is a much better chance the designer and owner will consider that integrator for projects.

The biggest issue for an integrator is learning how to work with the design consultant and maximize the relationship. Have you considered hiring a design consultant for a particular project, but did not really understand the role a designer plays in the process? This can be a common problem and without the proper information on hand a good decision cannot be made. It is important to understand the value and role a design consultant plays in the project and how to build a long lasting relationship with them.

What is a Technology Design Consultant?

First, it is important to explain the exact role the consultant plays in the overall picture, and the type of services they can provide to the end user. A security designer is a person or group that helps the end user realize their technology goals and brings in new ideas and recommendations from other similar projects. The consultant can speak to architects and engineers and provide detailed documentation so the end user knows exactly what they are getting before, during and after the installation.

The design consultant can make projects flow smoother and saves the end user time and money; which in return saves the integrator. With myriad of security designers available to work with, it’s important to make sure you build relationships/partnerships with a competent designer. Referrals are a great way to grow your business and achieve success.

Five Benefits of Working with A Security Design Consultant

See the entire picture. A security designer sees the entire picture where an integrator can have tunnel vision and is limited to exactly what they are providing. Design consultants will create floor plans showing each device and how it is connected along with specifications detailing what the system will do.

In addition, an integrator can rely on the consultant to make decisions based on the client’s budget and build project timelines. This enables the integrator to stay on time and on budget on important security projects.

Provide security assessments. A security designer will work with the end user to collect information and make security assessments prior to creating a security design. A threat assessment is conducted that involves a process of finding out the real and perceived threats to the security of the client’s facility and people. The consultant finds out what needs to be protected, who are the threats and vulnerabilities, what are the implications if they were damaged or lost, and what is their value to the organization. The consultant saves the integrator time and money by doing the due diligence for them and ensuring the right system is implemented.

Great source of referrals. A security design consultant can be a great source of referrals for a security integrator. The design consultant has relationships with owners, architects and engineers and is asked for their recommendations on who can provide the systems needed for the bidding process. By building strong relationships with the design consultant, an integrator is setting the stage for future opportunities and can create a mutual beneficial relationship for both parties. In return, the integrator can bring the designer in on projects that require a complete technology design package.

Industry specialist/expert on your team. The consultant works as part of the design team and knows how each step of the design and implementation process works for the security system. By working with a designer who specializes in the security industry it makes it easier for the integrator to provide the best security technology to meet the client’s needs.

The designer will be able to provide clear direction on what types of security technology is required and create floor plans showing each device and how it is connected, for instance card readers, cameras and monitors. The clients feel like they are getting the best advice possible from an industry expert along with the best possible price, which leads to satisfied customers for the integrator.

Manages installation process/reduces errors. By working with a design consultant, the integrator can focus on the installation and not worry about managing the process. It is sometimes difficult, as an integrator, to get paid for the design and the installation.

The design consultant will work with the entire team to ensure that the project runs smoothly; which in return reduces costly errors from happening.

The value of building a long term relationship with an industry specific design consultant is extremely high for the integrator. The consultant does not only keep integrators connected to the end user but they also can become a great vehicle for referrals. It is important to stay connected to a design consultant and ensure that they know who you are and what you do for future recommendations.

It is equally as important for building owners to develop strong relationships with design consultants. By having them on your team, the building owner is getting the best advice possible to help build a security system that meets their needs. The owner can relax knowing that their best interest is at heart to protect their building and employees.

The security consultant will take the time to review past occurrences at specific locations and provide a security assessment. In addition, the building owner can rest easy knowing they are getting the best advice from an independent voice outside of the security systems being installed. Whether you are an integrator or building owner; the benefits of having a design consultant on your team is a win/win situation for both parties.

This article originally appeared in the issue of .