A common challenge technology integration firms face is being introduced to a project only after a budget is finalized and the foundation is laid. In a more ideal situation the integrator aims to educate architects to encourage collaboration earlier in the design process.
A Longstanding Problem for the Industry
Precision Media Solutions asserts when technology integration firms are not consulted at the start of a project it can cause added costs for homeowners and more work for architects. Reframing walls is one example of a time consuming change that allows the technology to be seamlessly integrated into the architect’s design.
“When should we be brought in? Before a hole is dug and ideally before a permit is pulled,” says Brian Richards, owner and president of Precision Media Solutions.
“Every luxury home build now includes critically important connected technology. In order to maximize the performance of these needed products it is critical that the architects, designers and builders view the integrator the same as the MEPs and communicate with them early and often in the project cycle,” comments David Thomas, partner at PureTech Alliance.
Even at the Top Level
Since 2020, Precision Media Solutions has been part of the Guild Integrators Alliance. This group represents 15 technology integration firms in the U.S. Thomas, and noted that even the best integrators, like the Guild Integrators Alliance members, are frequently not brought into a project until builders are heavily involved and framing has started.
But Precision Media Solutions is Looking to Change That
“Something we’ve tried to do is reach out to architectural firms who are willing to meet with us and do lunch and learns at our showroom to explain all of our solutions including clean air and water technology,” suggests Richards
Richards acknowledges that this market has an impact on when technology integrators get involved. Working with PureTech Alliance, Precision Media Solutions are helping architects in the luxury market understand the value technology can provide to their clients.
“It’s a builder-run market or it’s an architect-run market. When it’s a builder-run market the coordination between us and architects is typically very low because the builders desire to control everything,” emphasizes Richards.
While Precision Media Solutions is focused on educating architects in Colorado, PureTech Alliance is focused on educating architects on a national level.
“Our biggest job these days is trying to get ahead and trying to make the specification community actually understand what is available, when it needs to be specified and give us a seat at the table sooner, instead of later,” adds Thomas.
