Good training is a best practice that applies across a broad range of industries and markets

Owners and managers of security dealerships, both large and small, face unique challenges in running their companies, and while there is no magic formula for success, dealerships that invest in training for their staff typically do better than those who don’t.  In fact, good training is a best practice that applies across a broad range of industries and markets, but it is particularly important in technology driven industries that deploy complex solutions such as access control systems, explains Robert Laughlin – President of Galaxy Control Systems.

From a professional security dealer’s perspective, the benefits of training can be grouped into three basic categories: immediate, interim and long-range. The immediate benefit is that employees are exposed to new information and techniques that they can apply in practical situations to expedite projects with higher precision. Making employees more efficient can also help to stimulate better work ethic and in the interim, stimulate their desire to learn more. Over the long term, these benefits are synergistic with the potential to generate more productive customer relationships and create higher employee morale, which can effectively enhance a dealer's overall business.

In addition to improving a dealers overall technical proficiency, participating in training programs that provide certification can further distinguish one access control dealer from another. Certified dealers also typically have access to tools and support programs provided by manufacturers that can increase efficiency and profitability. Of these support mechanisms, a good training program perhaps provides the most value as it will keep a dealer’s sales and technical personnel up to date on the latest trends and technologies. This information will help ensure that participating dealers’ customers benefit from the best possible access control solutions available. And that’s good for present and future business.

Unfortunately, typical training programs offered by manufacturers usually entail the blatant promotion of a product portfolio or new product introduction, along with some sales tips and installation guidelines. Fortunately, there are more advanced training programs available that dive deeper into real world installation issues culled directly from technicians and customers in the field. This practical approach to training typically addresses the most common challenges faced when designing and installing access control systems, and provide field proven solutions that all but guarantee positive outcomes. Sharing experiences with peers at such training sessions is also a great way to expand one’s knowledge base by addressing issues they may not have previously conceived or encountered.

From a manufacturer’s perspective, well-conceived and executed training programs also help to generate new sales and satisfied customers, which provide a measureable return on investment. As a result, manufacturers like Galaxy Systems offer regularly scheduled training sessions at our headquarters facility that may range from a single day to a full week. Live training is also often taken on the road either directly to a dealership or to a regional location where various groups can participate. On-site customised courses for end users may also be offered by the manufacturer in conjunction with the authorised reseller. Nothing beats hands-on live training programs with real software and products, which is usually conducted by the same highly skilled individuals who handle technical calls from dealers and integrators. However, there are instances where a dealer’s technicians can’t break away, and on-line training programs and webinars provide access to valuable information at virtually any time or day of the week. So there are different options available to meet demanding schedules.

The bottom line is that access control dealers can improve their capabilities and enhance business by taking advantage of manufacturer sponsored training. It’s just a matter of selecting the best training programs available to avoid wasting the time and effort of your technicians. Dealers can start by visiting the websites of various access control manufacturers to evaluate their training programs. It’s the first step in the right direction.