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Exhibit Vendors: Local vs Not Local |
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| February 10th, 2012 by Sam Cooper |
It happened again. I saw a posting for a museum seeking a “local firm” for an exhibit need. Why would a museum limit their pool of vendors by geography? I realize there are valid reasons in some cases. However, today I simply want to suggest a few reasons why you may want to consider “non-local” vendors for your next exhibit.
- Access to Best Providers. You local provider(s) may not always be the best choice. Comparing vendors on a national level will give you a much broader selection. More options will allow a better chance of finding the ideal firm for your needs.
- Price. Think “local” equals lower costs? Not always. In some parts of the country prices for local services run higher than the national average. For example, square footage costs for real estate in Rantoul, IL are less than Manhattan, NY. Location can allow lower operating and overhead costs. What are you really paying for?
- Greater Scalability. Planning for future growth? You may find that your local vendors are not as capable of handling your increasing needs as firms available outside your locale.
- Superior Customer Service. In some cases, national vendors come with a larger and more fully developed customer service & support. This can help you resolve issues more immediately and efficiently.
- Personal Touch Not Lost. Long distance correspondence uncomfortable for you? Prefer face-to-face? Many out-of-market firms will invest in travel to service an account or project. We all recognize the value in doing business in person. When feasible, vendors will make the effort to be in the same room with you. Odds are, that’s the way they prefer to do business too.
I invite you to share your opinions. Please post any thoughts or experiences you have with sourcing exhibit vendors locally vs. non-local. We would enjoy your perspective.
