Builder
It takes a team of skilled tradespeople to bring your smart house dreams to fruition. At the helm is your builder. Usually, someone from the building company will serve as the supervisor of the entire project, coordinating the various subcontractors which design, build and install every piece of a house, the electronic systems included.
Architect
Working hand-in-hand with the builder is the architect. Sometimes, the builder is also the architect. In any case, this person is typically your first point of contact – the one to whom you describe your vision for your house. These ideas are rendered into a plans, which are used by several of the subcontractors, including the builder, when designing and installing their respective parts of the house.
Home systems installer
Another person who definitely needs to be closely involved in the design of a smart home is the home systems installer, also known as a systems integrator. While the builder and the architect focus mainly on the design and construction of the home, a systems installer concentrates on the various electronic systems you wish to incorporate. These might include a security system, a home cinema system, a wholehouse music system, a lighting control system, a home automation system and a computer networking system.
Hiring a systems integrator is really no different than hiring an architect, interior designer or other professional. Systems integrators identify the client's needs and expectations, any limitations and problems, analyse building and wiring schematics, plan the detailed smart building solution and recommend equipment.
An experienced systems integrator will recognise the importance of establishing a good rapport with clients from the start of the project. The integrator should be willing to take the time to help you understand the options available to meet your requirements and your budget, and to help you get the most out of the system they install for you.
