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Ongoing training maximises end-user benefits

With major advances in technology, today’s installer must not only be well acquainted with the growing range of products available, but must also have a thorough knowledge of product capabilities, installation procedures and programming techniques to maximise benefits to the end user.

The objective of training is to improve installer proficiency, so that customers will have the peace of mind that comes from knowing that the equipment they install will perform exactly as it is intended to do.

This can only be achieved by attending regular training courses provided by reputable organisations.

When evaluating a training organisation and its courses, the following questions should be asked:

* Are there dedicated training facilities conducive to absorbing maximum knowledge - or is training presented in a makeshift environment?

* Does the lecturer have a thorough knowledge of the products being presented, as well as the experience to reinforce the presentation?

* Are the training courses reinforced using elements such as slide shows, videos, and hands-on demonstrations?

* Are extensive professional training notes available to each participant?

* Is ongoing support offered beyond the end of the training course?

* Are professionally prepared meals and refreshments provided?

* Does the facility meet with SETA (Sectoral Education & Training Authority) requirements?

Good and bad training

The difference between good and bad training is measured by the quality of knowledge absorbed by the trainee.

Short training courses are of no benefit to a trainee - there must be ample time for trainees to absorb and question the course content and this cannot be accomplished in a rushed situation.

The consequences of a 'rush job' are potentially destructive. Trainees come away with only a little knowledge of a product, but believing they know enough. This can cause problems out in the field which reflect unfavourably on the supplier - and of course, deliver a sub-standard system to the end-user. And at the end of the day, the installer will avoid using this product, which he believes to be problematical, in future.

One of the biggest shortfalls in the South African security industry today is installers' inability to prescribe the right product to suit the end-user's specifications. It is so important that sales consultants know what they are selling - features, benefits, pitfalls and the marrying of products to requirements.

Many consultants are out there quoting without a thorough working knowledge of the products they are recommending. And the potential for disaster is compounded when the technician installing the equipment does not know the enough about product performance and programming.

This can only be remedied via ongoing training on existing and new products available in the marketplace.

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