We continue our discussion on this blog about Furniture,
Furnishings and Equipment or FF&E-this time on the specific skill sets
associated with providing FF& E Services.
It is critical that those offering FF&E services must be
knowledgeable about systems furniture, case goods, seating, "loose"
furniture, and other specialty furniture.
The American Institute of Architects (AIA) Handbook of
Professional Practice says that one of the keys to this is knowledge of
ergonomics, furniture construction, and fabric characteristics such as
durability, flammability, and applied coatings is essential to providing
appropriate recommendations to the respective client. The AIA says that most
product information is readily available through manufacturers’ representatives,
like GET, LLC, or through online
resources like www.get-guam.com.
When evaluating furniture, architects and designers should
also pay close attention to product warranties and the manufacturer’s financial
viability-emerging as key in the buying process.
Local sales representatives, like us, are the best resource for pricing
and follow-up information. Most vendors encourage their sales staff to call on
design firms to inform them about the costs and benefits of their particular
lines. These companies also will provide samples and mock-ups of their products
for evaluation, often at no charge.
Many sales representatives provide “lunch-and-learn”
presentations for design firms and regularly host designers on factory trips to
highlight lines appropriate for a specific project.
Providing furniture
procurement services also requires good knowledge of local furniture dealers,
including the services they offer and the lines they carry. For example, for workstation
systems projects, dealers often provide final detailed layouts and
specifications to the architect’s design requirements. They also may inventory
existing furniture for evaluation by the architect or coordinate installation.
The AIA says that designers and architects can sometimes find
it helpful to create a partnering arrangement with local dealers and to work
with different companies to fill the needs of different projects.
For more on how GET,LLC through our friends at Savoy Contract Furniture and teaming partner
American Hotel Register can assist you with your specific FF&E needs, please
check out our website at www.get-guam.com or give us a call at 671-483-0789 to
discuss the best solution for your facility.
All the solutions are Made in America!