Grounds Equipment Specification: Manufacturers Consult with Managers





By Dan Hounsell, Editor  
OTHER PARTS OF THIS ARTICLEPt. 1: Grounds Care Equipment: Assess Department Needs Before PurchasingPt. 2: Grounds Equipment: Rent, Lease or BuyPt. 3: This PagePt. 4: Grounds Care Attachment Directory


Many manufacturers of grounds equipment have expanded their roles in the specification process beyond offering products and financing. Increasingly, they view themselves as resources for managers making their way through a complex process.

"Our value comes from playing the consultative role," Chenevert says. "We can work with them on all levels, including how to use equipment most efficiently and how to dispose of it." Not surprisingly, some of the most valuable consultations relate to finances.

"Manufacturers can consult with the customer and offer the most suitable options," Garvey says. "Are low interest rates or low monthly payments more important? The manufacturer or dealer should fully discuss these situations with the manager so an informed decision can be made."

Finally, manufacturers urge managers to keep open minds during the process. For example, managers should be willing to consider equipment options from a range of manufacturers, not just those they have purchased from before.

"I suggest they don't get entrenched with one manufacturer," Chenevert says. "If they do, they'll realize they're being underserved in some ways fairly regularly."


Continue Reading: Grounds Asset Management: Guidelines for Equipment Specification

Grounds Care Equipment: Assess Department Needs Before Purchasing

Grounds Equipment: Rent, Lease or Buy

Grounds Equipment Specification: Manufacturers Consult with Managers

Grounds Care Attachment Directory



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  posted on 12/1/2009   Article Use Policy




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