Last month at the BICSI conference in Orlando, while I was listening to a presentation, it occurred to me that we have multiple names for defining the industry we work in.
The NEC identifies us as Communications in Section 800, the Master Format has us defined as Communications in Division 27. BICSI used to refer to us as Information Transport Systems (ITS) designers and installers, but now is using the term Information & Communications Technology designers and installers, but uses the term Information Technology Systems for its new Journal. Then there’s Structured Cabling Systems (SCS), Information Technology Systems (also ITS), Information Technology (IT) and plain old Telecommunications. And I’m sure I’ve missed a few others.
So, my question is…….in your elevator pitch, what term do you use to describe the industry you work in and why?
UPDATE
It’s been an interesting discussion over the last few months and here are some of the recommendations.
- Communications (from RCDD),
- Communications Infrastructure,
- Network Infrastructure,
- Technology Engineers,
- Technology Consultant or Designer,
- Telecommunications,
- Structured Cabling Specialist,
- Low Voltage Specialist,
- ITS Designer,
- Technocommunications,
- Communications and Infrastructure Technology,
- Telecommunications and Networking Passive Physical Infrastructure Designer,
- IT Infrastructure Consultant,
- Information Transmission Systems,
I think the general consensus is that it depends on who we’re talking to, but why is that? In the early part of my career, I always used Telecommunications Infrastructure but with the convergence of other services like A/V, security, building automation, lighting, etc., all of which use our cabling infrastructure, explaining what we do has become difficult.
I think William Boyd said it best “I’m the cable guy” and then expands from there because when it comes right down to it, we’re cable people and that’s more descriptive than any of the other terms floating around the industry.
Thanks for all your input.
2 thoughts on “Who Are We?”
Well in Mexico we try to identify ourselves as OPErators / CONstructor /DESigners of Information Technology Transport Systems
that of course today involves
* Automation & control
* Cooling (monitoring & control)
* Energy (renewable/ efficiency / monitoring)
* Data
* Security
* Safety
* Video
* Voice
We are in all of those systems that are included ina building / facility nevertheless it is a High Performance or a simple/plain building.
* Lighting
*
I think “who we are”, grows with knowledge and ability.
For those who are just getting into this Industry, you might just do a couple of things, but to those who have been in the industry longer….our tool kits are bigger, if you get what I mean.
We have learned more than a few ways to speak with our customers.
-Kevin J