SmartHomes ●From previous page
wholesalers keep a copy or two of the Wiring Regulations on the shelf; maybe broaden that offer to include new technology and have a reference copy?
Media channels Smart homes are well represented in online forums and media channels, the challenge is to filter content. I also recommend the IET’s Wiring Matters (
https://electrical.theiet.org/wiring- matters/) and Voltimum’s Smart Electrician Magazine (
https://www.voltimum.co.uk/se).
Where should you position yourself? The sweet spot is to have your customers coming to you first when they get a lead for a smart installation but to avoid liability and unsustainable obligations in terms of training and support. The manufacturers are the key to this but one needs to know how to ask them to do it.
Trade organisations The Electrical Distributors’ Association offers modules to educate wholesaler staff on the technical aspects of contemporary electrical installation. There isn’t a module on smart homes yet but being able to advise on how new things fit together will win a lot of customers’ hearts by taking some of the strain off them while they get used to the new toys. Get hold of one, make a
note of the detail involved, do you have the staff and resources to incorporate it? Professional bodies like the IET, NAPIT, NICEIC, ELECSA and STROMA will be looking to support installers in entering this market. The book I am working on with the IET is designed to be an introduction and Quality Management System in one, to help new entrants keep the wheels on the tracks while they learn the ropes. Most
Summary ●Don’t set yourself up as the experts unless you have the resources to get there and stay there.
●Do be a hub, bringing together manufacturer, installer and customer. Many manufacturers are very happy to visit your branch to demonstrate products.
●Be a friend to your installers and a platform for the manufacturers.
www.theiet.org
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