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Worksurface Edges for Hight-Traffic Areas From the console structure to the ergonomic accessories, 24/7 work environments will require high-quality furniture equipment in order to withstand the intensive usage over time. However, one of the elements that is often overlooked is the worksurface edge. The edge of the worksurface is one of the main touchpoints between dispatchers and the console. It will be used to rest their wrists, forearms, or elbows which is why its design can have a large impact on their comfort at work. Additionally, the surface edge also serves as a cushion to protect the surface from being scratched by chairs, doors, or people passing by. For these reasons, Sustema makes sure to provide the highest design and quality materials so that something as simple as the edge of the surface does not fall off or stick out over time and so that your users have the latest ergonomic products. Types of Edges In this article, we will go over different designs and models of surface edges commonly used in 24/7 applications such as control rooms and 911 dispatch centers. Urethane T-Molding Edgebands Urethane Edges Known for their unparalleled durability, urethane edges are one of the most popular products used in high-traffic areas such as 9-1-1 dispatch centers. Why you may ask? It is because the manufacturing sealing process eliminates the risk for microbial or moisture growth caused by water, coffee, and even cleaning agents to accumulate. It is also a softer texture than standard edges which is more comfortable to rest your wrist on for long periods of time which also works protects it better from scratches, bumps, and peeling. This is all due to the manufacturing process where the urethane is clamped to the work surface for the urethane to penetrate the fibers of the surface and create a highly tight seal between the two elements. Waterfall Edge: The following image shows the contact point between the urethane and wood substrate. Knife Edge T-Molding Another popular product used in 24/7 work environments are the T-molding edges whose name comes from the method used to attach it to the work surface which creates the shape of a "T". (See pictures below: Bumper). T-edge finish moldings are also used for a wide variety of applications and materials such as aluminum, metal, and wood. In the case of 911 dispatch furniture , edges are often made out of PVC or rubber polymers. The T-molding is manually attached to the work surface by inserting it inside a channel along the edge of the wood particle surface. T-molding edges are made of a semi-soft material which is also resistant to bumps and color change but can easily scratch if not taken care of. However, they are easy to replace in case of an incident. You can recognize T-molding edges as they are often rounded or semi-rounded. Bullnose Bumper Edgeband Edgebans are made of polymers, usually PVC, which is attached to the work surface via a gluing and heating process. The glue is first applied to the work surface and rollers then press the edge band to glue it. The surfaces are then stored for the glue to cool down. Most commonly used in standard office and home furniture, edge bands are still a popular choice among consumers. However, they do not offer the same quality in terms of ergonomy for the user and durability as they can stick out over time if the glue used is not of a certain quality. However, edge bands offer great resistants to cracks and scratches. In our experience, edge bands work great for the sides or perimeter of the console surface which is not exposed to the users due to its lower price and high durability. It is not recommended to be used on the front surface edge since it can tend to peal with intensive usage and does not respect the ergonomic standards to rest your hand and wrists. Square Corner Edgeband Conclusion In conclusion, the surface edge should have the same if not more consideration as the ergonomic chairs as it is one of the main touch areas between operators and their dispatch consoles. The surface edge should be comfortable for long shifts and durable to last the whole life of the console (10+ years). At Sustema, we will work with you to understand your needs and advise you on the best solution for your work environment. Let us know how we can help by using our online chat tool, writing us an email at info@sustema.com , or calling us directly at 1-800-455-8450.

Computer Cabinet Storage Unlike standard office furniture where CPUs are placed over the work surface or underneath it using a hanging shelf, the nature of activities in the 9-1-1 dispatch centers requires them to use much more complex CPU enclosures. The reason being that CPU enclosures for this type of application need to adhere to standards ergonomic principles such as giving the proper leg clearance for its users, but also, they need to act as fail-safe mechanisms that can help avoid any interruption to the electronic equipment used by operators such as the CPUs, the monitors, radios, and KVMs. Things to Consider When looking to upgrade your 9-1-1 dispatch consoles, it is important to consider where your current system is performing well and what could be improved in terms of design and technology. This can be helpful when you talk about your needs to your console manufacturer as it will guide the design and type of solution needed for your communications center. Here is a list of some things to consider. Is there enough space? It can be helpful to have space to grow the system over time without crowding the equipment inside the CPU enclosure. Is there a proper cable management system? Having enough space is also a matter of managing the cables from the equipment properly. In time, cables get wind up together and make it harder to access the equipment when troubleshooting which brings me to the next point. Is there enough power? Are you running out of places where to find power for your equipment? This is an important point to take note of as it can highly influence the design process and your ability to grow your IT-system over time. Is there proper ventilation? something as simple as having openings in the enclosures can help dissipate the heat produced from computers. You may have a ventilation system but does it make too much noise? Or, does it turn on at random times? Is it easy to access? Do the IT technicians spend more time trying to reach the computers rather than troubleshooting the systems? in 24/7 mission-critical applications, this should not be the case. Technicians should be able to troubleshoot any issues quickly. Custom Design & Quality At Sustema, CPU enclosures are designed based on each client's needs in terms of size, functionality, style, and technology integrations. The enclosures are made out of heavy-duty steel to make sure they can withstand 24/7 use without bending over time like other wood composites used by other console manufacturers. The CPU enclosures can be placed underneath the work surface, either in the middle section or on the sides. Made of steel & highly secured with locks Multiple configurations, under the work surface, in the middle, or on the sides Colors include black, charcoal, white, or silver Can be made for raised floors with access from the bottom Custom enclosure vents in the front, back, and top Ergonomic Functionality CPU enclosures are designed to meet the needs of today's reality in the emergency communications center. With operators often working long shifts, it is important to consider things such as having enough leg space underneath the console in order for people from different heights to work comfortably. In terms of ergonomic functionality, Sustema designs CPU enclosures that provide easy access to the IT-equipment from the front or back, and with sliding CPU shelves. For those of you who happen to work in colder areas, it is also possible to add heaters underneath the work surface to keep your staff warm. While the controls for the heaters are on the work surface, the heaters are integrated at the base of the CPU enclosure or on the sides. Learn more 18" leg clearance under the work surface Min. 24" knee clearance for height-adjustable consoles Sliding CPU Shelves, accessible from the front & back Heaters Technology Integrations Every aspect of a dispatch console is designed to integrate both ergonomy and technology for operators to interact seamlessly with their equipment. At Sustema, the CPU enclosures are no exception. Depending on the IT requirements in your communications center, dispatch consoles are capable of hosting more than 6 CPUs simultaneously without overcrowding the space thanks to a smart cable management system. We are also able to integrate 19" rackmounts directly inside the enclosure, and KVM boxes. The enclosure can also serve as a power hub for all the equipment used on the console by integrating power bars or power outlet walls. With all the energy used by CPUs and other IT equipment , it is not surprising that the enclosure can overheat at certain times. To overcome this issue, we've integrated silent thermostatic fans to dissipate the hot air outside the enclosure. The thermostatic fans can be programmed to monitor the temperature inside the cabinet and release the hot air as needed to save energy. *As a bonus, it is also possible to add automatic lights inside the enclosure so whenever someone opens the doors, the light turns on so you can see the equipment inside without having to use a lamp. Power Outlet Wall/Power bars Silent Thermostatic Ventilation Automatic LED Lights 6+ CPUs KVM Enclosure 19" Rackmount Integration CPU Cabinet Storage Space While it is nice to have uncluttered work surfaces, sometimes it can create another issue. Where do I put my belongings? You may think that it can be kept at the lockers but it is always good to have some storage space at hand. This can be used for the operator's personal belongings or to store work-related documents and equipment. At Sustema, we can customize the CPU enclosures to become storage areas that are easily accessible with sliding doors. Cable Management One of the questions that often comes up with our clients is the cable management system that will be used to organize the cables from all the equipment. At Sustema, we've become experts in providing this type of solution and even making it work for height-adjustable surfaces. We do this by integrating power and data raceways where cables will be run through. These are then run through cable chains to power the equipment on the work surface such as the monitors, keyboards, mouses, touch screens, phones, and much more. Benefits of Sustema's CPU Enclosures Sustema ensures your equipment is easily accessible for quick maintenance. Equipment cabinets come in multiple configurations and sizes, including, internal power, LED lighting, silent cooling fans, and cable management. CPU Cabinet Storage CPU or computer storage in workstation consoles should always adhere to standard ergonomic principles, keeping the user’s knee and leg space clear and free of obstructions. Slide-out CPU shelves Built-in cooling fans LED lighting Front/back cabinet  Air circulation venting Heavy-duty metallic construction Leg and knee space clear of obstructions Contact us to learn more about our custom CPU enclosures for 9-1-1 dispatch consoles. info@sustema.com 1-800-455-8450

This week Dr. Michelle Lilly takes us To the Center to help correct the assumptions about PTSD and helps us understand the difference between PTSD and other conditions.

Focus C-200 In this video, Derek Dugas an account representative at Sustema presents the different features of the Focus C-200 console. The Focus console is designed to meet the needs of 24/7 mission-critical applications such as emergency operations centers and 9-1-1 call centers. EOC Console Features About Sustema At Sustema, we work with you and your team to help you design the perfect solution for your work environment. From designing the console and floor layout to the final installation, we take care of every aspect of the project to provide you with peace of mind. Do You Have A Project Coming Up Soon? Talk with one of our representatives and get a free online consultation! We will go over how to design an ergonomic floor layout, give you recommendations on the best console solution for your work environment, and much more. You can talk with us directly through our chat messaging app, by email at info@sustema.com or by phone at 1-800-455-8450.

Emergency Operations Center (EOC) Definition The emergency operations center (EOC) is a central facility responsible for analyzing and communicating key strategic information for decision making during critical or emergency situations. The goal is to ensure the continuity of operations of a government agency, company, political subdivision, or other organization. EOCs serve as the information hub and are responsible for passing information to both decision-makers and units on the field. EOCs can be found in many nations, at all government levels, as well as in larger corporations that deal with large equipment or numbers of employees, incorporations, and smaller jurisdictions. Functions of the EOC While EOCs do not normally directly manage field assets, they are responsible for analyzing data for the concerned sub-agencies and individuals. The five major functions of EOCs are command, planning, operations, logistics, and finance, each of which may be divided into sub-functional units. Command: responsible for overall response management. Operations: responsible for coordinating all operations to support the action plans. Planning: responsible for collecting, evaluating, and disseminating information and for coordinating the development of the action plans. Logistics: responsible for procuring facilities, services, personnel, equipment, and materials. Finance/Administration: responsible for tracking incident costs and making forecasts, and payment of responders, contractors, and claims. Designing the Emergency Operations Center Sustema specializes in creating innovative workplaces for mission-critical work environments. With thousands of installations across North-America, Sustema has extensive knowledge manufacturing ergonomic control room consoles tailored to the needs of our clients. About Sustema Whether you need a custom console design or technical features to fit your IT-equipment, Sustema's consoles are made to fit your workspace and provide the highest level of comfort for the end-user. Our services include the design, manufacturing, installation of 24/7 consoles. Watch the Emergency Operations Console (EOC) video . Find more information at https://www.emergency-response-planning.com/blog/bid/56720/Functions-of-an-Emergency-Operations-Center

Surface Anti-Collision Sensor Sustema’s surface collision sensor is designed to protect users from accidental injuries and to prevent consoles from causing material damage in case of a collision with other equipment. The anti-collision system automatically stops the downward movement of the console surface once an obstruction is detected. When meeting a point of resistance, the height-adjustable surface returns to its original position. The surface anti-collision sensor can be installed on Sustema's products as an added feature for more safety. These products include control room consoles , 911 dispatch consoles , trading desks , technology meeting tables , and much more. Key Properties: High sensitivity for immediate activation, senses soft and hard obstacles. System functions independently of load and temperature. Reacts to load changes, making it sensitive to obstructions close to the lifting column. Actuation Force Range: 1 lb (4.5N) - 5 lb (22N) Overtravel Range: 0.040 in - 1.0 in Contact Information Tel: 1-800-455-8450 Email: info@sustema.com

The Operator Written and directed by Caroline Bartleet, Operator won the BAFTA for Best Short Film in 2016. Set entirely in an emergency call center, it tells the story of one particular call, handled by Scotswoman Laura (Kate Dickie). Gemma has apparently woken up to discover a fire in her house and her young son, Jamie, is trapped upstairs. Despite Laura asking Gemma to stay downstairs, the latter cannot refrain from trying to save her son. With both mother and son now trapped in an upstairs bedroom, will Laura be able to keep them safe until the fire engine arrive? No matter the outcome, Laura will have another call to handle straight after. And another after that. If you like the BAFTA-winning Operator by Caroline Bartleet, be sure to rate it and share it. NENA TC Tip: Do I have PTSD? In this video, Dr. Michelle Lilly takes us in the Center to help correct the assumptions about PTSD and helps us understand the difference between PTSD and other conditions.

Modular & Self-Standing Video Wall System Mission Critical Operation Centers like 9-1-1 Communications, EOC, SOC, Energy & Utility & Port Authorities are highly focused environments demanding an intense amount of technology with a continuous flow of information from multiple sources. Fast and accurate decision-making relies on real-time data from multiple sources and is often displayed on video wall systems. Sustema’s Video Wall systems help organizations with greater 24/7 situational awareness through advanced monitoring of media feeds, local events happening in real-time and provide the big picture view for better response in allocating resources in the right place at the right time. Emergency Operations Center Imagine a scenario where a fully capable emergency operations center may synchronize 911 responses with disaster response in one location unifying efforts during a disaster or major event. The capability of an operator to control the content on the video wall such as centralizing security cameras, media feeds and geo-mapping location data is critical to help promote a safer and more accurate response on the field. By integrating a video wall system, you increase the capability for teams to work independently and collaboratively with increased visibility on police, fire, and EMS in their current physical environment and situation. Leveraging live feeds from what is happening on the field allows dispatchers to better assist in influencing real-time decisions. For example, when a flood or natural disaster occurs, it gives the operation center the ability to assess a critical situation from a remote location using true real-time networks displayed through a video wall system. The video wall also empowers an operator working independently from their workstation to display critical content for collaborative discussion. Security Operations Center In the case of the Security Operations Center, a video wall has the potential to accelerate response times giving the flexibility for personnel to react quickly in tense situations as they happen. Consider the scenario of a critical incident where a SOC team member focused on the CCTV security cameras will need to formulate a quick decision in order to dispatch the right support to the required location in order to meet a successful resolution. Custom-Made Video Wall System Sustema has over 20 years of experience helping mission-critical operations including concept, design, and execution into first-class mission-critical communication centers. Built for 24/7 applications Sustema's modular video wall structure is specifically designed to meet the needs of each application. Certified by our team of industrial designers, the heavy-duty steel frame ensures the strength and stability of the system. The control room video wall can be used as a self-standing system or anchored to the floor, making it easy to install and adapt to any environment. The various bracket systems and horizontal beams allow users to easily configure the monitors at the desired height on the video wall. We bring all aspects of your operational space into consideration including console layouts, video wall placement and sightlines, acoustics, workflow, and more. Our experts help you analyze your needs and create the ideal command center layout. Toll-Free: 1-800-455-8450 Email: info@sustema.com Download the Video Wall Brochure

The Evolution of Production Lines At Sustema, not only do we make great consoles for control centers, we also design, manufacture, and install workbenches that are used in various industries including IT, process control, and high-tech manufacturing environment. In this article, I will focus on our height-adjustable workbenches used in high-tech manufacturing. Since the creation of assembly lines, industrial shelving and workbenches have been used to store tools and various equipment, allowing workers to perform their daily tasks. With today’s highly technological world, the assembly line has transformed itself, more so in the high-tech manufacturing sector, where the IT equipment is a necessary production tool, as well as electrical/air connectors, bin storage, and lighting/magnifying options, just to name a few. Electric Height-Adjustable Workbenches (EHAW) It may be practical for operators to be able to adjust the height of the work surface, when working with a heavy component to assemble, or simply to be able to perform the work standing, which is known to be healthier. Thanks to Sustema's high-end actuators and knowledge in designing height-adjustable desks, our benches can easily lift anywhere from 500 lbs up to more than 1500 lbs, depending on the structure of the workbench and the worksurface material. There are also quite a few options to choose from for the work surface, typically we’ll provide a high-pressure laminate finish on a 1’’ high-density particleboard, but depending on your environment and requirement we can provide a wide range of finishes such as compact, high-pressure laminate with Chemtop, (for chemical resistance), Stainless steel or Dekton (for high-temperature resistance) and ESD mats. Custom Features & Accessories The structure and substructure of the work surface, as well as the backing, are all built out with a heavy-duty steel frame. You can choose from a wide variety of color options to make sure it fits the design you are going for. Just like our consoles, our adjustable workbenches series comes with a lifetime warranty because they are built just as strong. If you decide to integrate a lot of electrical components to your bench, we can also take care of making your bench CSA certified . Since all the components are integrated into the bench directly, it makes it much easier to move and relocate the benches on your production floor in the future. Design, Manufacturing & Installation In conclusion, we can help you design the perfect workbench for your production line that will enhance productivity, team morale, and reduce the risk of accidents by providing a clutter-free and organized workspace. We will also take care of manufacturing the workbenches and installing them at your facility. Given that the possibilities are endless in terms of configuration and options, make sure to get in contact with your Sustema representative and start designing a workbench that will push your assembly line to the next level! Email: info@sustema.com Toll Free: 1-800-455-8450 Website: https://www.sustema.com/height-adjustable-workbench

Why do 911 dispatch centers, EMS, and PSAPs require preventative maintenance & regular console cleaning? Command centers, control rooms, and 911 dispatches are essential organizations responsible for the safety of communities and large business operations. Today's unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic situation has brought its own set of challenges for businesses across the globe. This brings a new set of challenges for control room environments as operations rarely stop with continuous shifts and employee rotations 24/7, 365. In this article, we will present applicable preventive measures to help maintain proper cleaning and maintenance procedures in the control room which are also necessary to extend the life of your consoles. 6 Ways To Keep Dispatch Console Work Surface Clean: You can prevent the spread of germs by keeping your personal space clean and germ-free. Here are the areas most likely to spread germs and how you can keep them from causing illness. 1) Choose a Product that Cleans & Disinfects at the Same Time: When cleaning public spaces, choose products that clean and disinfect all at once (e.g. premixed store-bought disinfectant cleaning solutions and/or wipes when available). Cleaning products remove germs, dirt, and impurities from surfaces by using soap (or detergent) and water. Cleaning does not necessarily kill germs, but by removing them, it lowers their numbers and the risk of spreading infection. On the other hand, disinfecting products kill germs on surfaces using chemicals. Use only approved hard-surface disinfectants that have a Drug Identification Number (DIN). A DIN is an 8-digit number given by Health Canada or other certified products that confirm the disinfectant product is approved and safe for use in your country. (Source: Government of Canada). For U.S. based PSAPs, you can find information on the CDC website. 2) Declutter your Workspace & Keep Essential Equipment Only: Rid your work surface of all unnecessary clutter. Keeping fewer things on your work surface seems so simple and is yet so often overlooked. Only keep the essentials easily accessible and visible, everything else can be a distraction and is taking up prime workspace real estate. For example, keyboards, computer mouses, radios, and CAD tablets. 3) Disinfect Your Work Area Before Leaving: Before leaving, take a few minutes to clear your work surface from anything you may not have had time to do during your workday. This is a good way to not only close out your day but set yourself up for a productive clean start tomorrow. It is highly recommended to use a one-way wipe down. Wiping down a surface in one direction and not going back over it in the opposite direction will help ensure you do not deposit germs the area that was just cleaned up. Routinely wiping down high-touched surfaces such as workstations, countertops, equipment, accessories, and doorknobs is also an effective way to reduce the spread of germs inside the PSAP. Here is a list of some high-touch items that need to be cleaned before and after switching shifts in the emergency communications center. - Computer Keyboard: A case study conducted by a UK consumer watchdog organization revealed that office keyboards have as many germs as office restrooms. However, it is more likely that the restrooms are being cleaned regularly by the maintenance crew. This is why sanitizing the keyboard before starting your shift is a good habit to take even without the current COVID19 situation. If you want to be more thorough, you can use a dip cotton swab in a mild cleaning solution and wipe the surfaces between each key. Then, use a lint-free cloth and the cleaning solution to gently wipe all other surfaces. - Computer Mouse: It is not unusual to find 2 or 3 keyboards and mouses on each workstation in the PSAP. Similarly, computer mouses are handled as much as the keyboard and should be cleaned regularly. Someone may reach over to grab your mouse without asking, and contamination may occur. Simply wiping down with sanitizer cloth can make the difference. - Phones/Headsets & Radios: When we speak, small saliva particles splatters off of our lips and spittle in the mouthpiece of our phones or headsets. These should ideally be replaced yearly, if not every six months. During COVID-19 times, it could also prove wise to have a dedicated phone for each operator. To clean it, use a slightly damp washcloth with minimal hand soap and wipe down any place with grime. Spray with aerosol and let air dry completely. After scrubbing your headset down, carefully test to see if either end of the headset can be removed for more thorough cleaning. It is important to note that your phone harbors germs from your hands, ears, face, and mouth. Sanitizing your phone before you take one more call. - Chairs: 24/7 ergonomic chairs have arms that we touch with our hands as we sit, stand, or drum during idle time. Someone may come into your workspace and borrow your chair to use your computer or to sit and chat with a coworker. Consider everything you touch in a day, wiping your mouth, your nose, eating, sneezing, and then we touch our chair to stand or sit down when pushing it in and out from our desks. These should be cleaned weekly and wiped down with antibacterial wipes before and at the end of each shift in the PSAP. 4) Avoid Eating at Your Workstation: Food crumbs can be a breeding ground for bacteria or germs. Keeping snacks sealed in airtight containers can help reduce leaving crumbs on the workstation. However, the best option is to avoid having lunch at your desk. 5) Promoting Social Distancing: We recommend splitting up teams and using back-up control rooms to prevent the spread of COVID-19 to the entire team. Consider placing one team in the primary PSAP and another team in the backup control room to promote social distancing. This way, if one team gets infected, only half of the workforce is out of commission. If not currently possible, it can also help to consider having a physical separation between workstations. Sustema introduced ConsoleShield as a means to protect operators with a physical plexiglass barrier between each console. ConsoleShield serves to block the spread of air particles produced when coughing or sneezing. Learn more about our custom made plexiglass protectors. Conclusion: In conclusion, the effectiveness of regular handwashing is undeniable and one of the best ways to remove germs, avoid getting sick, and prevent the spread of the virus to others. If soap and water are not readily available, you can always use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. For more information on how to protect yourself and others during the COVID-19 pandemic, please visit the CDC website or the Canadian government website. Sources: Cleaning and disinfecting public spaces during COVID-19 (Gov. of Canada) https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/publications/diseases-conditions/cleaning-disinfecting-public-spaces.html This document provides guidance on cleaning and disinfecting of public settings, including schools, universities, public libraries, museums, public transit, communal residences, and workplaces. #disinfectingdesk #cleaningworksurface #cleaningdesk #covid19 #psap #ems #publicsafety #911dispatch #ems #tips #controlroom #commandcenter #console #plexiglass #plexiglassbarrier #plexiglassprotector

Sustema presents the installation of the Transit C-300 control room console on a timelapse video. The Transit C-300 console is designed for the needs of mission-critical applications such as control room and command center work environments. Industries using this type of technical furniture include public safety (911 dispatch centers, PSAPs), manufacturing, energy & utility plants, security (government or private), and transport such as air traffic control, maritime traffic control and road traffic control centers. Consoles differentiate from standard office furniture by their ability to provide all the power and technology required by the operator equipment. Learn more #controlroom #commandcenter #timelapse #dispatchconsole #cctvmonitoring #publicsafety #nasa

Working on a custom project such as building a new control room or renovating an existing one can sometimes be an overwhelming experience. A lot of companies will say they are the best at customer service, design, engineering, and customer relationship management, so what are the questions to ask when looking into buying new console furniture for the control room? In this article, we will go over some essential questions to ask your furniture provider when purchasing control room or dispatch consoles. 1) Ask: What can they guarantee in writing that their competition can’t match? For example, Sustema can guarantee to meet or exceed all ANSI BIFMA (Ergonomic Standards) criteria. 2) Ask: What is your warranty program? This is an important question as to the stronger the warranty the more confidence that the company has in its product. At Sustema we believe anything that we manufacturer ourselves we back up with a lifetime warranty and state that in writing. 3) Ask: What are the questions you would ask me? Turn it over on the company to ask the right questions and get you talking. They should be the experts to guide you. Here are a few examples a good company would you ask you if you're buying technical furniture: Tell me about the layout of the room that the furniture will be going into? Tell me about the current work environment and what you liked and what could be improved? You will notice that the console below has two height-adjustable independent worksurfaces. This gives more ergonomic flexibility to your operator, were you planning for one worksurface so far or were you looking at two independent such as on the image below? The company you select should have a very good level of detail when asking questions to make it easier for you to answer them. Visuals are a great way of doing that and painting a picture. 4) Ask: Can you please summarize what we talked about and send it to me in a word/pdf document? The company you engage with should be detailing notes to send back to you for review. In my experience clients often add small yet crucial details 24 hours after the initial conversation. 5) Ask: After our initial discussion what are the next steps? The purpose of this question is to talk about the terms of moving forward. For me at Sustema I would be telling the client I will move forward with an estimate and often times a drawing with absolutely no pressure or monetary payment required. If a company successfully engages in those steps and more you will be in great hands. At the very least you will save a lot of time in selecting the next company you choose to do business with. Mark Meschino Account Executive at Sustema mark.meschino@sustema.com