Seven things that you can look for in a home automation designer.

1 Experience in similar projects: seek a designer who has installed home automation systems for projects of similar scope and complexity.

2 Rapport: a good home automation designer is never patronising. Architects need a designer who is eager to explain the multitude of possibilities.

3 Product neutrality: designers should recommend a solution that suits client needs rather than their own business interests.

4 Accreditation: there is no university degree in home automation design, but a designer should have accreditation for the intelligent lighting control system recommended (ie: Clipsal C-Bus or Dynalite), accreditation from manufacturers for all other products, a State security industry licence, general induction with occupational health and safety for construction, accreditation for electronic systems integration and CEDIA accreditations.

5 Level of documentation: accurate documentation is essential for a successful project. If everyone is working off the same page with a clearly defined objective the project will run more smoothly.

6 Project management: a home automation designer should work alongside other contractors to help them understand the requirements of the electrical infrastructure and electronic hardware.

7 Adequate staff and resources: make sure the designer has adequate documentation, systems programming and installation staff to ensure the project is carried out on time and to budget.