The American Institute of Architects (AIA) shared five key recommendations from its recently published The Architect’s Journey to Specification that every building product manufacturer should heed. As part of our culture of continuous improvement, this research-based advice definitely captured our attention.
1. Improve websites
We want to transfer our knowledge to you in the easiest way possible. When more than 80 percent of architects report manufacturers’ websites to be their most used source for keeping informed about product trends, we understand that a clear, concise, up-to-date and simple-to-navigate site needs to be a top priority.
Rockfon.com currently offers a comprehensive source for our complete ceiling products with on-demand – no login required – access to inspirational project galleries and case studies, performance and sustainability information, design tools, product selector and comparison tools, downloadable datasheets and specifications, installation advice, warranty information, weekly news posts and much more.
Complementing our main website, Rockfon Optimized AcousticsTM presents focused, research-driven information on optimizing the acoustic design. The educational content and interactive tools on this site help designer and other building team members to better understand the influencing factors to meet today’s acoustic guidelines and rating systems.
Looking ahead, we will streamline the navigation for these robust sites, while continuing to add up-to-date content. Future enhancements are planned to expand downloadable documentation supporting sustainable design goals.
2. Focus on education
As mentioned in early posts, we are happy to present both online and in-person continuing education courses. The AIA and other professional associations have approved our available professional development programs.
We regularly review these courses to align with current codes, standards, and guidelines. Knowing the high-value design professionals place on these courses, we are planning to invest in expanding our course offering.
3. Be an expert
We agree. You need technical information, you need it now and you need it from someone you trust. We put everything we can on our website so the information you’re seeking is available day or night.
Beyond our website, we offer collaborative, consultative advice and support by email, phone and face-to-face. Our architectural and technical services teams are ready to assist in bringing your most creative, challenging and important projects to reality.
4. Be proactive
We know that your time is extremely limited and very valuable. To better anticipate your needs, we are expanding our team of locally focused architectural representatives. We also are investing more frequent communications, such as through our educational and informative email alerts, LinkedIn posts and this online News section.
5. Be transparent
We believe that we all do better when we work together. We are committed to enriching the lives of everyone who comes into contact with our ceiling solutions. As your trusted partner, we strive to serve as an extension of your team. The more we know, the more we can help support your success and the success of your customers – and ultimately, the people who work, play, learn, heal, shop and live in the buildings you design.