From a manufacturers perspective, it can be a challenge to launch new products in the South African security market, as many of the key players have worked to cement their reputation over the years. However, since Paxton launched here in March 2014, the company has seen an unprecedented amount of interest in its products as a direct result of its commercial and technical training workshops.
Perception amongst our installers is that the South African security industry is hampered by the prevelance of old technology. This puts the onus of education on the installer to be up to speed on new technology and market leading systems. However, with our free training and education programmes, and products that are easy to install, that may be about to change. We believe that the South African market is more than ready to hear what we have to say.
The days of the single competence company are fading fast and there is increasing demand for installers and integrators to master many aspects of security. Providers must embrace the growing trend towards vastly simplified and open systems that allow even the smallest security companies to provide effective security solutions to their clients and the education of installers is a starting point towards achieving this.
It is important for any security company to invest heavily in training and development – by educating installers you provide them with confidence to deliver innovative solutions to clients and better meet the challenges of the market. With sufficient training installers will have the confidence to install appropriate solutions to meet the client’s needs. Training also ensures systems are fitted accurately and with confidence, and reduces the time taken to fix errors on site.
Paxton believes that practical workshops are the most effective way to train installers. Taking this approach and listening to installers also delivers valuable feedback and market intelligence, which is a key element of the company’s product development strategy.
We have long held the view that the South African access control industry requires a fresh approach to training and education, and this has been underlined by the attendance rates at our training seminars. Too many companies see training and support as a cost to the business – however, investment in education and aftersales support are the fundamental building blocks to growing in a developing industry.
If the South African security industry is to keep pace with modern trends, it is vitally important that the industry embraces new technologies that simplify systems, rather than continuing to focus on more complicated and outdated technology.
To sign up to the Certified Paxton Installer Programme, visit http://www.paxtonaccess.co.za/training-request-za.asp.
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