1. CONSULTATION AND DESIGN
At the outset a project team is confirmed, reporting relationships are established and advisory project participants are scheduled. In our experience it is important that we be involved in the early planning stage with any system of significance. The design process begins through consultation with those who will be managers and/or users of the system. This process enables us to tailor the system to fulfill its initial objectives, while making provision for future expansion and modifications. We often find that we are able to provide useful ideas to our clients - ideas that they may not have considered previously or perhaps were unaware that they could be incorporated. The balance of this work phase is devoted to:
- An examination of the functional attributes of each room, or area;
- Identification of the types of equipment for the area, and the level of integration required to facilitate automation within the home or building;
- Defining zones of common functionality;
- Preliminary assessment of current and future needs for the system.
2. SIGN-OFF
A detailed proposal with equipment lists will be given to the client. At that time, the client will be re-educated on the systems as well as the cost of the project. Adjustments are made and incorporated into the proposal based upon client review. Final sign-off of the proposal serves as the basis for ordering network related equipment and scheduling installation. This proposal forms the system documentation provided upon completion.
3. PRE-WIRE
Pre-wire is the installation of the low voltage wiring and cabling. This work phase is scheduled after the electrical has been completed, and before dry walling begins. During this phase, the equipment racks / backboards are installed in the control room in order to secure the cabling in position prior to the installation of HVAC, security, PC network etc.
4. EQUIPMENT
The equipment phase will include recommendation and demonstration, as well as the selection, of various components. A short list of equipment, meeting or exceeding spec, is created, prior to finalizing the decision, on which components are most suitable. Scott Custom Audio Video enjoys excellent relationships with its suppliers. Ultimately, an equipment-ordering schedule is supplied to allow for sufficient lead-time to ensure on-time installation.
5. EQUIPMENT INSTALLATION
Dictated by the overall schedule, the installation of equipment is coordinated with other trades. For example, cabling for hidden speakers for P.A. systems or background music will be installed under drywall so that they are not visible and must be in place before the drywall trades arrive. Other equipment, such as screens for video projection is installed after the paint trades, while touch screens facilitating full automation are the last items to be installed.
6. PROGRAMMING AND TESTING
Some programming is completed prior to installation at the client site. Once installed, all systems are tested and validated.
7. TRAINING AND DOCUMENTATION
After final trim out and testing, on site training is arranged for those who will be using the system, after which documentation is completed.
8. LONG TERM SERVICE ORIENTATION
Scott Custom Audio Video takes a long-term service approach to clients' systems and their equipment.
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