Home Technology Association presented a CEDIA Expo class on how integrators can get hired earlier by showing up differently.

Until now, the landscape of home tech experts, Integrators, the "A/V guys", etc has been rocky. Unlike medicine, law, or architecture, there exists no real qualification process to call oneself a “home technology professional”. This low barrier of entry has resulted in countless sub-par technology experiences for consumers. Everyone has suffered. Consumers own homes that they cannot operate, manufacturer's names are sullied, and qualified home technology firms are faced with an untrusting public. The Home Technology Association (HTA) has changed that. Historically, homeowners have chosen firms based on price or the personality of a salesperson, and typically do not perform enough due diligence on prospective integration firms. This has often led to hiring the wrong company, leaving homeowners frustrated. The HTA objectively evaluates a firm's capabilities and helps homeowners not only hire a great firm, but also the right fit for the size & complexity of project. We share data and expertise with homeowners & design/build professionals so that they are adequately informed to partner with the right company for their needs. Through a rigid set of evaluation criteria, we created a certification system that identifies and classifies the best technology firms. HTA Certification is built around 3 pillars: 1 - TECHNICAL COMPETENCY We believe that only technically-skilled firms have the ability to deliver a great home technology experience. We certify only the firms with a stellar history of technical expertise. 2 - AFTERCARE SERVICE Technology is not perfect and is ever-changing. We believe homeowners need a responsive company to work with for ongoing customer service and support. 3 - REPUTATION A strong track record of being fair and honest is vital. We believe every HTA Certified company should inspire trust and confidence. The HTA aims for great home technology experiences delivered by skilled, trustworthy companies who deliver exceptional customer service.