Integrator Insights: Working With AV Manufacturers
What’s the key to creating a great working relationship between System Integrators and AV manufacturers? We asked five talented integrators to share their thoughts on the topic.
Here is what they said…
[CS] Open communication is the most important thing for me. I would like a quick response, even just to notify me that when I place the order that they have it and are working on it, that’s one of the biggest things. When a product I’m looking for is on backorder I find it really frustrating—the sooner they can communicate this to me the easier my job will be.
[MC] I’d say the biggest challenge is building strong relationships with manufacturers. Companies like LEA Professional embody the kind of relationships that we want. Some of the bigger, larger companies are doing a lot of acquisitions and they’re buying companies because they’re missing an expertise or a product mix and when they bring on those lines, they don’t really understand them. We appreciate a good close relationship directly with the manufacturer and the support and knowledge that comes with that.
[IS] Programming new systems for me is difficult, I can install a system no problem but getting used to new programs is tricky and can require some training and hand holding by the manufacturer. The easier they can make this for my team, the better. motivates me to keep improving with every project.
[AM] I think communication with manufacturers can be tricky and I would like to see more manufactures tailor their communications to suit integrators. For me, I don’t need the high-level information and the sales decks, I want to see the technical details, in the most concise way possible. If I get a list, an email, once a month with a list of the new products and their features, I am happy. I will add that I love training sessions and I can’t wait to actually get to see those happening again when it is safe.
[JB] When working with a manufacturer, I look to see if they are competitive on price, performance, and service. LEA Professional ticks all three requirements, and when I find a product like this that I like, I put them everywhere!
Share your own thoughts about the integrator, AV manufacturer relationship in the comments below or reach out to us on our social media channels.
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