Had Yul Brynner and James Coburn been given an “honorable mention,” I would have wondered if the “Magnificent Seven” had returned to save the day after reading the article on the “Industry’s Mightiest Manufacturers” (see May issue).
As one of the few independent manufacturers for the past 16-plus years, we have an alternative perspective.
The benefits of consolidation and acquisition are without a doubt noteworthy — especially when it comes to financial and human resources. However, it must also be noted that if the financial resources are limited to the gain of a few insiders, the consumer will not see this as a benefit — they will see it as an expense.
Someone has to pay for the million-dollar parties, private jets and high-priced management.
Partnering Better Than Controlling
Our company focuses more on strategic partnering than strategic control. This provides a high level of accountability to the customer with less intercorporate politics.
Is it all about quality products and support? Yes! How many layers are required before the “buck stops?” With the continued trend of corporate consolidation, the customer may lose the personal attention to their expectations, whether they are realistic or not. The customer’s needs will always drive technology to be accommodating, not dictating, in nature.
Small Guys Build the Big Economy
Throughout history, small business has been the backbone of the economy, and it remains so today.
Working directly with a variety of dealers and installers — regardless of size — allows for creative thinking and customer responsiveness that is unsurpassed.
Ultimately, customers are the source and beneficiaries of technological advances. As one of the few remaining independent manufacturers, we will continue to preserve our dedication to the consumer and pride ourselves in immediate accountability to the market demands.
There is not one solution to the industry requirements. The roles played by major corporate entities and small business enterprises alike will be required to properly service the ever-growing electronic security industry.
Wayne Erickson is the founder and president of St. Paul, Minn.-based Access Specialties, a manufacturer of integrated electronic access control systems. Wayne has more than 25 years’ experience in the access control industry and was one of the first manufacturers to introduce a PC-based access control system. Erickson can be reached at (800) 332-1013 or [email protected]
