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Mr Pietsch, are special constructions always the result of non-standard customer requests?
Usually, yes. Our job is to address those special requirements which exceed the capability of the standard product range. Examples include intercom systems mounted 2.40 metres in height which have to be operated from truck cabs, letterboxes capable of holding double the volume of mail or fitted with electronic unlocking function. However, the Special Construction Department does design whole new products. We only operate within the grid framework of the underlying system design.The unmistakable face of Siedle always remains.
When does a special custom-produced design become a standard product?
If there is frequent demand for a certain type of custom-produced design, we take a closer look at market potential. A typical example here is the combination frame built onto the flush mount housing of the Vario 511 series to create a new letterbox system from the old Vario system Vario 611. We produced this model for a long period in the Special Construction Department, and it has now been changed to a standard product. We were very pleased about the popular demand, as we attach a high degree of importance to maintaining and modernizing existing systems. This is part and parcel of sustainable management. Why tear out and exchange existing equipment which can go on being used?
The term "sustainability" has become something of a buzz word recently. What do you understand by it?
For me, sustainability has to do with a long service life and durability, with products for the next generation. The longer something can go on being used, the more sustainable it is. What is the use of an eco-friendly product which only has a life cycle of one year? That is a sign of a throwaway mentality parading under the environmental protection banner. Instead, more importance should be attached to the term "long life". I am not the only one who thinks so; achieving long product cycles is one of the Siedle corporate objectives.
Is there one particular development you are especially proud of?
Yes, there was one particular improvement suggestion which culminated finally in the launch of the Siedle Classic design line. To exchange the widely popular door loudspeaker TL 111, originally all we could offer were specially designed solutions based on the Vario or Steel series. Then a door station was specifically designed to enable modernization projects. This was how the Siedle Classic line came into being.
Have you received any special requests which struck you as - let's call it - particularly "off the wall"?
Not really. Nonsensical requests generally never make it through as far as our department. We have a team of competent specialist advisors in the field who head off any such requests before they reach us. But I do recall that one customer wanted a Vario system covered in synthetic leather. It turned out not to be technically feasible, but we did look into it. For us, complying with specific customer requirements is like rising to a challenge. |
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