Just tried to get information from HDI Railing Systems (see Lynn’s original post). You can’t register online, you have to call and give your information to a person. The person I talked with told me that I was the only person irritated by this procedure.
I am flabergasted.
Well, so much for specifying HDI Railings Systems
I have to wonder why some manufacturers think their information is so amazing, proprietary, different, innovative, astounding, or unique that they must protect it against the likes of us (or anyone else). They seemingly expect the industry to simply accept their word that their product is perfect for all situations and conditions; we are not to question! (at least without the proper authorization from the exalted leader - or something like that).
I have to wonder what part of this industry in today’s world do they not understand?
You have to get in the head of a manufacturer to understand this. They need leads to sell their product. If someone is interested in their products they want to be able to give them personalized attention. Getting a specifier’s contact information allows them to contact the person to see if they need more information. So I doubt that manufacturers think their literature is the next Shakespearean novel, its just that want to be able to sell their product.
Just sayin…
I think we all agree that registration - giving one’s name and contact information - is not a problem. It’s the password thing, or the not being able to register on-line thing, or the wait for authorization which sometimes can be up to 48 hours; that’s the part I don’t get.
Brian, all my contact info is in my email signiture. And if i can just email a manufacturer, I’ll have a record of my question or request.
I’m all for establishing symbiotic relationships with manufacturers and reps. I’m not in favor of being held hostage by a company that thinks it’s doing me a favor by allowing me access to their technical information.
Having reps who get their CDT’s or CCPR’s and who are involved in local CSI chapters is the cost of doing business. If the product is predominantly for interiors, being active with the local interiors groups is fine. Thinking you can just get my contact info because my designer wants to use your product and then calling me repeatedly to ask what the status is of a project, who to call, etc. instead of doing your job isn’t acceptable. I don’t have time to coddle manufacturers who are too cheap to properly represent their own product to the industry. I assure you that their making more money than I am. Frankly it seems that anyone who wants to take 10 minutes can look in the right place and get a list of specifiers for any city, town, state or location. If they’re not participating in the betterment of the industry, I have no use for them.
Amen, brother! (Waving hands and arms in the air, jumping up to shout AMEN!)