Challenging the status quo
ERC Testing managing director Bill Keating considers why the changing portfolio of fabricators is leading to a change in scope for testing.
If it ain’t broke, why fix it? All too often we find ourselves in situations where, to do what we have always done, the way we are used to doing it, is easier and less challenging than opting to do something differently. So, we maintain the status quo.
Adopting this approach though, especially when it comes to business, can mean an inability to develop and evolve, especially in an industry like ours, which is driven by innovation.
In terms of product audit testing, many manufacturers submit for annual testing the same product produced to the same specification, believing that this is the right thing to do. Poor advice from non-industry-specific certification providers means they’re not getting value for the money they are spending on testing.
This is because most fabricators are not offering a single specification on a small product range anymore. They have extended their portfolio by supplying casement windows, flush sash, VS, composite, bifold, PVCU, aluminium, timber, and then on top of that are offering multiple colour, hardware and glass options.
Our cooperation with fenestration certification specialists CENSolutions means our customers are getting the right guidance and advice specifically tailored to their individual business needs. They are widening the scope of the products they are submitting for testing and therefore offering their customers a much broader range of certified products, often spending a similar amount year on year, but with a much more impactful outcome.
ERC Testing works in close cooperation with CENSolutions, ER Certification and TÜV Rheinland Nederland, providing a customer-oriented, comprehensive approach towards improving the quality and reliability of glass, windows and doors supplied to the UK market. By working closely together we can ensure our customers have access to everything they need in order to obtain product certification with all of the help and guidance they might need. It means our customers enjoy real benefits from working with us and our partners, with each of us working towards the common goal of achieving the very best for our customers.
Having set up the business in 2015, we’ve continually pushed the boundaries with what we do. Our team of laboratory technicians have a wealth of knowledge and experience, combining over 90 years working across a wide range of products and production processes in the fenestration industry, which sets us apart from other test houses. We pride ourselves on the fact we offer a very different approach. Our open-door policy means customers are welcome to come and see their products being tested, ask questions and hopefully better understand not only the testing processes but also the specific implications for their products. As specialists in testing flat glass, windows and doors we understand the challenges faced by our industry and want customers to be fully prepared to meet them.
When we first set up the business, two full-time technicians were testing for four days of the week. We now have two full and two part time technicians testing five days a week, with office administration support.
The business is going from strength to strength and the team has grown because of that success. We will continue to challenge the status quo in order to continue to evolve and develop to ensure we continue to deliver on customer expectations.