Latest Trend in Security & Home Automation: DIY Installed, Pro Monitored

Selling professionally monitored systems direct-to-consumers has been a fruitful business model for many companies such as LifeShield (now owned by DirecTV), FrontPoint and Protect America. Customers configure their systems online, and the dealer ships out a pre-programmed solution for self-installation. The dealer enjoys the recurring revenue with nary a truck roll.

At CES, we saw several pro-oriented companies come out with new products at the show that could fit this model well. Also new business models for security monitoring were revealed.

From Pro to DIY Security & Home Automation
Let’s start with Honeywell. The company rolled out its Lyric brand of DIY smart thermostats last year and just shored up the line at CES with a complete security and home automation system that has the look and feel of retail. While Honeywell didn’t come out and say it was positioned for the do-it-yourselfer, it would certainly make sense for that market.

Read more: http://www.cepro.com/article/diy_vs._pro_security_and_home_automation_the_lines_keep_blurring/K5

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