Defining "Truly Open"
What is an open system in the building automation industry?
The term 'open' and the HVAC industry has become somewhat of a buzzword in recent years.
You've heard it before from manufacturer reps to install and maintenance companies.
It's a popular word on bid day,
But what exactly is an open system?
Well that depends on who you ask
The industry standards defining an open system are vague leaving much to the manufacturers interpretation
Usually when you hear the word open and reference to building automation they're talking about cross product communication through the use of open protocols
When all devices are using compatible languages like lawn and back net they can work together?
regardless of Manufacturer or vendor
Sounds great, right?
But wouldn't it be better to get more?
Protocols are only one piece of the puzzle when it comes to a truly open system
Manufacturers have been moving towards requiring customers to license software and proprietary tools in order to service and maintain their products
Essentially locking down the customer systems while still maintaining a veil of openness
This guarantees continued business for the manufacturers while minimizing benefits to the customer
like choice of product and service contractors
Most building automation systems may be in use over 15 years. Do you really want to be locked into one
Manufacturer and one service provider for that long? We at Control Technologies firmly reject this notion that the customer should be locked in.
That's why our definition of Openness has two parts:
Open Protocols for cross-Platform
communication between products and 
Open Licensing for cross vendor servicing. With both sides of this coin customers are truly in control
It's the customer who decides. What manufacturers to purchase from and later which service contractors to work with.
We at Control Technologies would much rather keep our customers based on merit.
We won't lock you down with licensing and proprietary tools
Because we're confident that by delivering quality service and competitive pricing, you'll stick around anyways
That's why we only offer products from vendors with not only open protocols, but open licensing.
In the end we're here to serve our customers
Control Technologies - Putting you in control.
