Experts by Default
Aug 1, 2005 12:00 PM, By Mark Johnson
I'm a pretty big fan of HGTV (Home & Garden Television), as you might surmise from this months' installation profile. I also subscribe to some HGTV-related newsletters, for a couple of reasons. First, I like to see what other newsletters are all about and maybe get ideas for the Sound & Video Contractor newsletters — Sound & Video Contractor Extra and our two Special Focus newsletters, H.O.W. (Houses of Worship) and Corporate AV. Second, I can get ideas for things to do around the house.
Recently, one of those HGTV-related newsletters presented a highlighted chat topic soliciting advice on home theater installations. A general contractor had a homeowner ask him if the contractor could put in a home theater. The contractor wanted to help his client, but was unsure of what was involved in installing a home theater. Although I rarely join online chats (I think this was the first time), I recommended that he contact a professional designer/installer, and referred him to the CEDIA website.
More and more, the contractors who already have access to people's houses by necessity (electrical contractors or security system installers) are being asked to put in the “fun” systems, like home theaters. They are becoming experts by default. Particularly in the case of security systems installers, the homeowner has already put a huge amount of trust and confidence in this person, so why shouldn't he be trusted with putting in a home theater? After all, the person installing the security system is the one making the home and family safe and protected.
CEDIA, ICIA/InfoComm, and NSCA all offer excellent opportunities for professional growth and development. If you're looking to expand your area of expertise or find someone who can do the job, industry organizations provide many resources for training (online, in conjunction with an exhibition, or scheduled local classes), as well as contact information for certified professionals.
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