The Custom Electronic Design & Installation Association (CEDIA) is a global trade association of companies that specialize in planning and installing electronic systems for the home. These systems include home networking, home automation and communication systems, media rooms, single or multi-room entertainment systems, and integrated whole-house subsystems providing control of lighting, security and HVAC systems. The association was founded in September 1989 and has a total membership of more than 3,000 member companies.

CEDIA members are established, insured businesses with bona fide qualifications and experience in this specialized field. Member classifications include designer/installers, manufacturers, sales representatives, distributors, consultants and affiliates.

CEDIA is a not-for-profit association based in Indianapolis, Indiana. It is controlled by its members, who annually elect officers and board members.

CEDIA's members are found throughout the world. A map of the CEDIA zones can be found here. To find designer/installers throughout the world, use the free CEDIA Finder Service.

WHO BENEFITS FROM CEDIA?

Everyone does. Consumers benefit because they can obtain referrals through CEDIA to find qualified, reputable and insured design and installation contractors to counsel them and work in their homes. They also benefit by having CEDIA promote professionalism and honorable business practices in the field of custom installation.

Custom installers benefit in several ways. Consumers, builders, architects, interior designers, etc., recognize them as a professional resource. Through CEDIA education conferences and training programs, they can obtain continuing education in both technical and business skills to enhance the growth of their employees and their business. They have access to data, publications and other materials that can enhance their business practices and marketing services. They also have an open line of communication to manufacturers, industry officials and colleagues to address challenges and exchange information. Through CEDIA certification, installers now have a benchmark in their industry against which to measure themselves. Being a CEDIA Professional Certified Installer lends even more prestige to membership.

Manufacturers benefit from CEDIA because equipment specified, installed and serviced by CEDIA members will satisfy customers, lead to enthusiastic referrals, and help the industry grow. CEDIA provides manufacturers with feedback that will help them create products that perform more efficiently, are easier to install, and satisfy changing customer demands.

WHY DO COMPANIES JOIN CEDIA?

Custom design and installation is the cutting edge of a rapidly growing field, and only recently is becoming more widely known outside the consumer-electronics industry. Among consumers, there is little awareness or appreciation for the specialized knowledge and skills of the custom designer/installer. Builders and home designers are better informed, but most are not aware of the breadth of custom-installation services, or of all they and their clients stand to gain by using custom installers.

CEDIA's purpose is to build recognition and acceptance for this specialized field, and to speak up for its interests in addressing the industry, government, and the marketplace.

HOW DOES CEDIA ADVANCE THE INTEREST OF CUSTOM DESIGNER/INSTALLERS?

Through educational programs, trade shows, publicity, advertising, technical meetings and other methods, CEDIA helps its members in many ways:

• By building awareness of custom installation among consumers, and promoting CEDIA members as the most qualified contractors to perform design and installation of home electronic systems.
• By generating leads and referrals.
• By establishing contacts with allied industries, professions and trades including building, architecture and interior design.
• By making publicity, advertising and sales tools available to its members.
• By assisting members in improving their management and technical skills.
• By working for the establishment of industry standards with respect to the design and installation of home-electronic systems.
• By protecting members’ interests in matters affected by government regulation.
• By monitoring and guiding the growth of our industry for the benefit of all its members and customers.

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CEDIA