Training for a better business

Thursday 23rd June, 2005

As conservatory design becomes increasingly complex, influenced by architects, designers and homeowners, installation, especially of the roof, can pose quite a challenge. To complement the introduction of fitter friendly roofing components into the conservatory market, ongoing training and development of conservatory design and installation skills are critical for success.

Investing in skills builds a better business
Research carried out by the Department for Trade and Industry has shown that 70% of people who undergo on the job training experience improved competitive edge and productivity. A well trained and highly skilled installer is better equipped to provide a high quality service and achieve greater customer satisfaction.

Philip Wharf, UK Training Manager at Ultraframe commented: “Installer teams who undergo regular training are more flexible and adaptable to new and improved methods of installation. With in-depth training and intimate product knowledge, installers work more effectively to raise productivity and increase business profits. Training also helps to motivate staff as they appreciate the value of developing their skills.”

Philip Wharf continued: “Although the exact details of forthcoming conservatory legislation are still to be published, training, including the development of best practise installation techniques, provides essential preparation. It also keeps installers up to date with new product development and ahead of their competitors.”

Technical skills and increased product awareness
Ultraframe has always advocated the importance of regular technical training and has established a School of Excellence as an in-house resource for developing new skills for its fabricators, suppliers and installers. Each year in excess of 1,000 companies undergo a series of specialised training modules designed by Ultraframe experts.

Philip Wharf explained: “Typically companies choose to undergo training to maximise the benefits of innovative products, such as Clicklock™ technology. This ‘boltless’ technology has been designed for speed and ease of installation and we offer training packages to provide hands-on experience and installation tips so that installers can take full advantage of the products. These courses give customers technical insight into structural design which they can use in an on site situation.”

Ultraframe customers can extend the invitation of training to their own customers. At PBM-DQS, the largest independent fabricator and distributor of conservatory roofing systems in the UK, customers have already been taking advantage of training at Ultraframe’s School of Excellence. This has in turn had benefits for staff at PBM-DQS. Adrian Williams, Managing Director of Roofing, explained: “We have had great feedback from our customers who attended Ultraframe’s courses. They have a better technical understanding of product benefits and increased confidence. This ultimately makes dealing with our customers simpler.”

Ultraframe also offers mobile training units so that their technical training teams can provide help and support to customers anywhere in the country.

Increased customer satisfaction
The introduction of conservatory installer schemes to the market forms part of the glazing industry’s drive to clean up its image ahead of possible government legislation. The promotion of installers who operate to high standards with skill and integrity to provide a quality service can only be achieved if installers are committed to regular training.

Linda Doughty, Marketing Director at Ultraframe, said: “We recognise that ongoing technical training is vital to maintaining high standards. As well as passing a rigorous vetting process, including the recent addition of assessment, in itself an important training aid, one of the key requirements of membership to Ultraframe’s Guild Approved Ultra Installer Scheme is a commitment to annual training. This means that when we recommend our Ultra installers to homeowners, we can guarantee that they really are the most knowledgeable and technically skilled fitters in the industry. Installers benefit from an increased number of business leads generated by Ultraframe referrals, and customers can have complete peace of mind that they will receive the highest standards of workmanship and service.”

Total support package
With its innovative and technically advanced products, its premium customer service and technical support package, Ultraframe is confident it can meet the needs of its installers and fabricators and help keep them ahead of the market.

Linda Doughty concluded: “The School of Excellence and Ultra Installer Scheme illustrate Ultraframe’s determination to support its customers with the best after-sales service and technical support in the industry. We will assist our installers in whatever they need to do to fulfil their obligations under future regulations and ensure their ongoing success. The School of Excellence will continue to educate Ultraframe users about the latest building regulations and legal requirements helping them stay at the cutting edge of new developments. By improving levels of skill and understanding in the industry, we are contributing to moving the whole industry forward for the benefit of all, including, most importantly, the consumer.”