AV Technology - February/March 2009 - (Page 24) IMPORTANT AV QUALIFICATIONS When selecting an AV integrator, it’s important to ask about qualifications and certifications. They prove that the company and its staff have invested in high-quality training and education in the technology areas that impact the quality of audiovisual communications systems. Here are some of the more relevant — and valuable — AV qualifications that you’re likely to encounter. The ESPA Certified-EST credential applies to many technology career verticals, including residential and commercial AV, computers, lighting, automation controls, security, alarm, telecom, cable, and satellite segments, as well as many general sectors (including architecture, engineering, and building trades). CTS InfoComm International offers a certification program with three certification designations, intended to develop the following skill sets and technical proficiencies: • CTS: A Certified Technology Specialist performs general AV technology solution tasks by creating, operating, and servicing AV solutions, while conducting AV management activities that provide for the best audiovisual resolutions of the client’s needs, both on time and within budget. This certification is accredited under ISO/IEC 17024. • CTS-I (Installation): Installs and maintains audiovisual systems by following specifications, schematics, codes, and safety protocols; administering installation process logistics; troubleshooting and problem-solving systems; maintaining tools and equipment; and communicating with clients, designers, other trades, other installers, and staff to provide the best audiovisual solutions for client needs, on time and within budget. This certification is accredited under ISO/IEC 17024. • CTS-D (Design): A CTS-D earns this specialized certification by demonstrating detailed knowledge of how to analyze, select, and plan seamless audiovisual communications equipment interoperation. The CTS-D demonstrates his or her experience in the form of complete specifications and drawings that deliver a desired outcome to meet a client’s needs. A minimum of two years’ industry experience accompanies the theoretical and practical competencies. ISF Commercial certification is a qualification process for AV systems integrators to ensure that their technical staffs are capable of providing the most professional services possible to their customer base. When an integrator installs a display, the job is not complete until the display and the system is fine tuned for the application and environment. Going beyond basic adjustments, ISF Commercial-certified technicians ensure that the customer’s display is fine tuned for peak performance, long life, and the most efficient total cost of ownership. Organization-level Certification InfoComm International’s Audio Visual Solutions Provider (AVSP) certification is for companies whose primary business is the manufacture, sales, integration, design, consultancy, or rental of AV equipment, systems, and services. There are three levels of AVSP certification, based on the percentage of personnel (technical, sales, or customer service) who have, completed certain InfoComm Academy courses, achieved either the General CTS, or the specialized CTS in Design or Installation. AVSP companies have also agreed to comply with 10 Standards of Excellence [see sidebar] that were developed in collaboration with industry experts to emphasize the best practices of AV businesses. 24 GUIDE TO WORKING WITH AV INTEGRATORS
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