Several complications result if there are no project specifications or if the project specifications are incorrect or incomplete. Vast frustration results for the customer, as well as, the companies trying to formulate proposals of how such work will be accomplished. The result is unpredictable without proper project specifications, but confusion, miscommunication, and undesirable results are certain. The project specifications are the road map that ensures all involved parties arrive at the same place.
Imagine trying to purchase a car via a 3rd party entity. We will assume you are not a car expert, but are aware that many options exist. You are also aware that different vehicles suit different people and are built to satisfy a variety of needs. What do you think you will end up with if your “project specifications” to your broker are to simply, “buy a car for me?” What will that individual deliver to you? How about if you narrow the “project specifications” and dictate to the broker that it shall be a 4-door sedan? Will you end up with what you were expecting when he arrives with your newly purchased vehicle? I think we all know the answer to that is probably not favorable for you. The more disheartening truth is that you can’t debate that he didn’t follow your instructions, even though the delivered product is undesirable. You are then stuck with frustration and a misdirected investment.
The time to prevent such a disappointing series of events is at the initial stages of the project. Formulating proper project specifications ensures that the customer receives what is wanted. It also provides protection and justification for the customer’s position if the provider doesn’t deliver exactly what was requested. I trust that you agree that this seems logical and straight forward, so why are many proposed projects without detailed project specifications?
Writing accurate, comprehensive, and definitive project specifications for a technical security installation can be a daunting task for most people who are not intimately familiar with security technology. Most people do the best they can, but get quickly overwhelmed when they realize the amount of detail that should be included, especially for video surveillance projects. So how can a customer provide accurate project specifications for a security installation when not familiar with the available technical security options and their differences? The good news is that assistance is available.
Many self-proclaimed security experts offer consultation services, but how does a customer choose between them and know who to trust? I suggest keeping that evaluation process simple and direct when deciding which security firm is best qualified to secure that which is valuable to you. Two of the most important considerations are experience and customer referrals. Trust a company like Orion Security Solutions, who offers a large number of clients for you to contact and shy away from companies that try and dictate what referrals you call. Inquire about each company’s experience. Find someone with the credentials and past performance that impresses you. You will feel more comfortable putting your trust in a company that has true, seasoned experts who gained their experience by serving in demanding capacities with critical responsibilities.
The resources spent formulating and reviewing project specifications can save tremendous amounts of money, time, and shattered expectations. The customer should understand the contents of the project specifications, even if they were compiled by a 3rd party consultant, prior to sending it out to bid. Good consultants and experts are able to explain highly technical details in the project specifications in plain terms that are clear and understood by individuals without technical security knowledge. The truth is that a customer will never have the confidence and peace of mind they seek unless they understand the contents and operation of their technical security solution.
Don’t miss next week’s edition of The O where we will focus on a different aspect of the vast world of technical security.
