This article was written by FEC Service Estimating Specialist Alicia Foster. Alicia works in the FEC Service Department and works to provide customized quotations to customers. Below, she shares her insights that come from her unique position at FEC.
Farnham Equipment Company’s Service Department begins with the inspection process, which provides a detailed report regarding the safety and condition of a facility’s bleachers and gym equipment. In 2024, we used the findings documented in customer’s inspection reports to provide over 1700 customized quotations. Nearly all of the service quotes are created from these inspection reports.
What makes a quote “custom”?
As our Service Estimating Specialists are well aware, each and every bleacher is unique. What this means is that any custom designs require custom repairs. Often, repairs are not as simple as “ordering new parts”, as parts are often discontinued and there are no compatible alternatives. Additionally, equipment is commonly modified or adapted to meet safety standards and because of this, FEC relies heavily on the technician’s expertise and workmanship for safe and creative solutions.
Why is custom quoting valuable?
Custom quoting is tailor made to meet the needs of customers equipment. FEC uses the inspection report as a guide, but also considers customer requests, budgets, and what repairs take priority concerning safety. Our team then communicates with our customers on a personal level to get to know their limits so we can provide a quote to best suit their needs. Sometimes a customer reaches out directly asking for a specific part, while other times the needs of the equipment are discovered by referencing the inspection report. Ultimately, it’s important that our customers trust us so we must always be kind, responsive, and communicate with them honestly.
“FEC got our order to us quicker
than we expected and were very friendly/
We will definitely be using them
for any future needs.”
Faculty Member, First Missionary Church
Without customized quotes, customers would have no choice but to purchase new equipment each time replacement parts became obsolete. If minor damage or a change in building codes occurs, they would be forced to upgrade for safety. Opposing the consumerist economy, FEC affords customers the choice to extend the life of their investments with customized quoting.
Overall, FEC’s Service Department helps customers get the most from their investment and will continue to prioritize this into 2025 by providing detailed inspections, customized quotations, and custom repairs with a commitment to our customers and to safety.
