#lutronsystems

Unless you’re talking about production-homes, condos or apartments, all systems are custom, thus really should be planned out.  You wouldn’t build your home without a plan, so why would you consider this be acceptable practice when installing all your technology?

You want to make certain that whoever is designing/specifying and/or installing the system is proving detailed schematic design which outlines wiring types,  requirements for proper installation and provide detailed functional specifications which clearly set expectations (for example, when you walk into a room and press the top button on the lighting keypad it’s going to turn on all the lights in the room and turn on your favorite music).

Control & automation systems can be one of the coolest features you might add to your home or workplace when done correctly.  Unfortunately, they can also be a relentless nightmare when bad decisions are made.

This is not meant to dissuade you from considering control systems but rather to arm you with the right information so you don’t end up like so many clients; making poor decisions based on price &/or ignorance about the systems being installed, the capabilities/solvency of the integrator and/or limitations of the products.

The good news is if you follow my suggestions closely; which means doing your homework and making smart decisions; this will greatly reduce the likelihood of a terrible automation system experience.

So after determining your needs, the most important decisions you can make are:

1) Who is is going to design & specify the system?

2) If it'll be a company other than the specifier, who's going to deploy the system?

3) Will you have a 3rd party manage the technology project on your behalf to ensure deliverables are being met?

4) Do you feel confident the integrator will be around to service you after the system is installed?

The reason these are such important decisions; certainly more important than say the brand of control systems you’re going to use; is because control systems are "dumb boxes".  They get connected together as specified and programmed to work based on certain criteria.

It does't matter how great your black boxes are if the specifier or integrator cannot deliver the completed project.