As most people are aware the Electronic Security Distributers Association (ESDA) has been going for a number of years, and although the association has remained focused with regards to membership, who may and who may not join, there has always been a debate among members, constantly enquiring what the association can do for them. Well the new committee is faced with similar problems as in the past, and hopefully we can find value for members to actually want to belong.
Not an easy task, and to start off with we hope to capitalise on what we started a while ago, and that is to re-introduce road shows around the country. An itinerary has already been decided, as well as dates for each of the events. With the assistance of our media partners as well as the ESDA website and newsletter, the location and dates will constantly be published, reminding and encouraging manufacturers and distributors to get involved and participate (at the same time attempting to lure new members).
The aim of the road shows is ESDA’s way of taking and marketing its members, as well as the members’ products, creating mini exhibitions around the country. It is not always possible for installers to breakaway and visit IFSEC (only held in Johannesburg) in order to see new and innovative product, as well as have the opportunity to meet potential new suppliers.
The ESDA Golf Day is a must, and should be included on all distributers and interested parties social calendars. Not only do all participants playing (or attempting to play) have a wonderful day out in the fresh South African sunshine, we also manage to collect a substantial amount of money that goes towards a worthwhile charity.
This year we are hoping to work a lot closer to SAIDSA, as well as all other electronic security type associations covering all aspects of security. The challenges with regards to legislation that installers are and will be faced with in the future will affect all of us, therefore it is up to us to no longer sit back and wait for legislation and then challenge it. Rather, we want to be part of the process in writing the legislation to suit us (hopefully), our clients (installers), as well as the needs of the end user. Should we sit back and wait, there will be somebody else that will write the necessary specifications, and if accepted by relevant parties within government, the specifications will be gazetted. At present we are already dealing with specifications governing the electric fence industry, soon the gate automation industry, after that who knows?
At this stage, being the beginning of the year, there is not a lot more we can offer, we would appreciate your input as to what you would like your association to do for you, while asking the age old question: ‘What can you do for your association’?
There are numerous sub-committees being formed that need volunteers from all sectors within the electronic security industry, not necessary within ESDA, however they are still relevant.
On behalf of the ESDA 2013 Committee, we thank you for your vote of confidence that you have bestowed upon us.
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