Article Number : 4015 |
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| Date | 12/22/2008 8:52:28 AM |
| Written By | LGM & Associates Technical Flooring Services |
| View this article at: | //floorbiz.com/BizResources/NPViewArticle.asp?ArticleID=4015 |
| Abstract | By Sarah Zimmerman To say, “I’ve been installing for over 30 years,” just doesn’t cut it in today’s market, according to industry experts... |
| Article | By Sarah Zimmerman To say, “I’ve been installing for over 30 years,” just doesn’t cut it in today’s market, according to industry experts. Manufacturers, retailers, distributors and associations alike all point out education—continued education—and certification are the key to successful installations. Millions of dollars are lost each year due to improper or inadequate installation, which causes total job failure, explained Dave Stafford, industry consultant. However, he continued to point out most, if not all, of these losses could be avoided if training was done prior to every job start and if the owner/manager required certified installers. “Becoming certified is a great way to let the world know your credentials and a way to justify the price you are able to charge for installation work being performed,” he said. “Plus, one cannot become certified without also becoming educated in acceptable and up-to-date installation techniques.” In agreement, CFI’s motto, “To earn more, learn more,” says it all, and Jim Walker, CEO, explained education and certification are real values that are beginning to surface more and more during the economic slowdown. “It appears when there is an abundance of business, the old adage of ‘How cheap? How fast?’ works well for dealers, but when each job becomes important to the overall success of the company, the certified installers who value customer service are busier than ever.” Walker also pointed out that education promotes pride, which plays an important role in the overall success of the installation. “Building pride in the industry through training and certification has given CFI the most momentum,” he explained. “And proud installers do not mess up on purpose.” Trust was another value mentioned by Tim Gray, director of Mohawk University, who noted training not only teaches and prepares installers to run a professional business and handle any problem that may arise, it builds accord with both dealers and consumers. And, Tim Provence, manager of Armstrong Floor Products Field Installation Services, explained education is key to maintaining productivity while reducing claims. “Installers who participate in certification programs that stress both knowledge and hands-on skills, measure themselves against industry standards; they can identify areas where additional training would be beneficial.” So, where would one go to gain the latest training? And, what are experts advising installers do to gain a competitive advantage? What’s available Though many industry professionals note a unified education/certification requirement would be beneficial, they also said it is a long way off—if ever. But, several mills, associations, dealers, etc., are working together to provide installers with a variety of up-to-date training across every category. “NALFA, NWFA, RFCI and many others have been developing programs that outline the general requirements for the installation of specific products, so unification may be done within each category in the future,” said Terry Fitzpatrick, national installation services manager for Mannington. However, right now, the mill—like most— offers residential and commercial programs on a local and regional level covering all of its product categories. Shaw’s James Mullins, technical services installation manager, agreed there is still a lot of preliminary groundwork to be laid before total unification will exist, but noted many mills are working in association with installation organizations, which is a good first step. “There is a group representing the carpet manufacturers and a number of people from the installation community in the process of updating the two CRI installation standards right now. This effort shows a great level of cooperation at last, which is promising.” Shaw also offers its own categorical and specific technique training programs, he added. Again showing a consistent and common theme, John McGrath, director of INSTALL, said the group has more than 80 manufacturers as partners, “who regularly offer updates to our training program to reflect what’s needed out on the job sites.” INSTALL also offers apprenticeship programs, which take installers “from rudimentary training in installation and safety standards to the most sophisticated, proprietary mill training in most sectors of the industry.” CFI’s Walker explained complete unification can only take place when the industry realizes the importance of the customer—as every job is, and should be treated as, a custom job. “The industry needs a leader who has the foresight to drive such a program, who understands all the facets of the industry and the important role that each plays to bring this to fruition.” Until then, CFI offers a range of training from entry level to very specific technique/ category/product classes. Advice for today and tomorrow Walker continued, explaining the most important thing for any serious installer going forward is to take advantage of all the opportunities available to increase both skill and knowledge. “They must have the desire to be the best and be at the top of their game every day.” Similarly, Armstrong’s Provence said attitude tops the list of keys to productivity—followed closely by skill and knowledge. “The willingness to learn and desire to be the best are most important to an installer’s future. Training and certification is an investment and can be used to gain a competitive advantage.” Mullins added, “In today’s market, installers must stop trying to install today’s floor covering with yesterday’s skills. Education is power for the installer. Attend every class you can—from flooring, to tools, to adhesives.” Stafford expanded on this idea, noting there is still a lot of money lost from miscommunication/misunderstanding of verbal and written instructions. “If you are not English speaking, and cannot read and write English, you need to take some classes and become fluent. This, and all education, will raise your standard of living by adding more value to what you’re offering.” Mannington’s Fitzpatrick reiterated taking advantage of every opportunity offered, but also suggested: “Get access to the Internet and research the products you’re installing; stay aware of what’s going on around you; read and understand all instructions packaged with the products your installing, and don’t be afraid to ask questions.” |