Building Sophisticated Homes through Collaboration

CEDIA Design & Installation Experts Collaborate with Builders, Interior Designers and Architects to Create Technologically-Advanced Homes 

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - April 30, 2009 - (RealEstateRama) — The technology revolution is a fast-paced, never-ending transition from one emerging technology to the next. While many professionals in the design and build industry want to provide electronic solutions for their clients, they often have limited time and resources to devote to developing more than a broad understanding of the systems. On top of that, in this volatile economy, firms are lean on personnel and don’t have the in-house expertise to meet client expectations. So then what?

According to experts with the Custom Electronic Design and Installation Association (CEDIA), collaboration is the key to building the sophisticated homes clients want.

Increased collaboration with electronic systems contractors – individuals trained to design and install electronic systems and committed to staying abreast of new developments and best practices – allows design and build professionals to utilize CEDIA experts as extensions of their teams that lend credibility and knowledge in the electronic systems category.

“Homeowners are seeking some of the most sophisticated technologies out there but that doesn’t mean they’re willing to compromise the style and functionality of their homes,” said Utz Baldwin, CEO of CEDIA. “Some of the more advanced homes today are essentially giant networked computers with walls and a roof and beyond designing and installing the systems, CEDIA Members work closely with architects, builders and interior designers to make sure the electronic components are virtually undetectable and easy to use.”

Comprehensive design and complete installation are only part of the equation CEDIA experts bring to the table.

“It wasn’t that long ago when a home with an intercom and lights on a timer was considered pretty high-tech,” said Dave Pedigo, senior director of technology, CEDIA. “Today’s high-tech homes have in-wall MP3 player docking stations, are virtually wireless and have various electronic systems that can be controlled by mobile phones. Imagine the high-tech homes of tomorrow.”

As technology continues to become an increasingly integral element of day-to-day life, homeowners need help keeping up with the rapid and frequent changes. CEDIA Members offer guidance and counsel to help them navigate the vast array of home electronics offerings and address their questions, such as:

• How can technology enhance my home?
• What emergent technologies will help simplify my family’s daily routine?
• Are there electronics that will save me money in the long term?
• Does adding electronics increase my carbon footprint?
• I’m not ready to install a high-tech system now but I know I will want to in a few years. Is there something I need to do now to prepare?
• Do I always have to buy top-of-the-line?
• What kind of maintenance or annual expenses should I expect?
• How long will it be before this technology is outdated? What will I have to do to upgrade? Should I just wait?
• Who do I call if something goes wrong?

Ad-hoc collaboration isn’t the only solution for design and build professionals who are looking to enhance their offerings in the world of residential electronic systems. CEDIA University offers more than 200 education and training courses that can help individuals become home electronic experts. In addition to a select number of CEDIA University courses, members of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) can receive continuing education credits for through CEDIA’s Registered Outreach Instructor (ROI) program.

CEDIA’s ROI program consists of 11 courses that cover topics from lighting control to home theater design and structured wiring. The ROI program offers peer-led sessions in which CEDIA members are trained to deliver approved educational content to design and build professionals on a regional basis. Members of the AIA and the ASID can receive learning units for their attendance.

To learn more about CEDIA University or to locate a CEDIA partner, visit www.CEDIA.org. Use the free Electronic Lifestyles® Finder Service to locate a CEDIA Certified professional by zip code.

About CEDIA
CEDIA is an international trade association of companies that specialize in designing and installing electronic systems for the home. The association was founded in September 1989 and has more than 3,500 member companies worldwide. CEDIA Members are established and insured businesses with bona fide qualifications and experience in this specialized field. For more information on CEDIA, visit the association’s website at www.cedia.org.

Contact:

Jamie Antcliff
CEDIA
317-328-4336, ext. 119

Eric Lingaur, MS&L Public Relations
(248)-458-8649

 

 

 

USGBC - U.S. Green Building Council

HUD - U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development

NAR - National Association of REALTOR

RealtyTrac

FHFA - Federal Housing Finance Agency

Freddie Mac

MBA - Mortgage Bankers Association