Outsourcing Graphics Installation

Graphics producers and installers need each other, and the key to getting along is mutual respect. Both need to respect the other’s efforts, rely on the skills of the other and work together to provide the client with the best possible job. Regardless of your company’s size or whether you have your own installers or not, the need to outsource installation invariably arises. Installation is not a commodity, but rather a craft. It takes a person years to develop the proficiency to be an expert installer, just like it takes years to become a black belt in karate. Professional installers are easy to work with, if you know how. From an installer’s perspective, I offer the following suggestions to make the process simple and profitable for all.

Tips for Success

PDAA Master Certified Installers should be your first choice for most contracted installations. First, be assured, any individual that has passed the required proficiency testing can handle any graphic application professionally and well (if the right materials are used and produced properly). Secondly, the company must carry General Liability Insurance (in all cases) and Workers Compensation Insurance (when required by the state(s) in which they do business). Recognizing the wide array of vinyl and printing equipment choices results in a seemingly infinite variety of finished graphics combinations. To receive the best, and most accurate, installation price possible, provide as much information as possible. After you have selected an installation company, send them an email that includes:

1. Detailed project description. (For example, a Ford Excursion wrap, including roof, bumpers and perforated window graphics, or interior painted drywall barricade mural, etc.).
2. Manufacturer(s) and type(s) of vinyl(s).
3. Specify whether vinyl is laminated, liquid laminated or pre-masked.
4. Graphic types, computer or die-cut, printing technology (solvent ink, latex, screen print, etc.).
5. Total square footage of vinyl to be installed. Include number of pieces or panels and breakdown of size by vinyl type.
6. Mock-up or layout if possible.
7. Anticipated installation dates.
8. Job location, as specific as possible.
9. Installation times (normal business hours Monday–Friday, weekends only, after normal hours, etc.).
10. Installation environment (outdoors only, indoors, climate controlled or not, electricity available, etc.).
11. Special requirements (steel toe boots, hard hats, safety goggles, permits, additional insured, no open flames, etc.).

Installers will instantly realize you know what you’re doing, respect your professionalism and be anxious to help you. Realistically, it should take no more than one or two emails to set up the job, maybe even one or two phone calls after the emails, to establish communication protocols should issues occur during the installation. You should always confirm an installer and their pricing before giving an installation price to your client. Be sure to discuss and confirm in writing with both your client and the installer:

1. Payment terms.
2. Travel charges (if applicable).
3. Downtime fees (for the installer for unexpected delays caused by the client or the graphics provider).

These steps should ensure a successful arrangement. Pay installers on time, as agreed, without reminders, and you’ll earn their loyalty as well.