OnForce Partners with SBCA to Augment Integrator’s Business

OnForce says it has the answer to how integrators can benefit from the DTV transition.

The online marketplace has entered a strategic partnership with the Satellite Broadcasting and Communications Association (SBCA) of America. OnForce's network of 12,000-plus technicians will be invited to achieve SBCA certification, earning them certain benefits.

OnForce CEO Peter Cannone says a big benefit revolves around the DTV transition. "With the digital TV transition and lower prices for flat-panel TVs, we are witnessing significant demand for onsite installation services in the satellite technology sector and OnForce, as always, is poised to help meet reception and high-definition programming needs."

Cannone envisions demand for satellite service to escalate as the June 12 DTV transition date approaches. The SBCA relationship sets up OnForce's network of technicians to do contract installations for satellite providers like DirecTV and Dish Network. In other words, it's a good way for installers to keep busy.

Most CE pros aren't in the business of installing satellite dishes, but there is something to be said for keeping installers busy and keeping cash flowing — especially in the current economy.

John Rice of Rice Technology Solutions in Las Vegas is an OnForce provider who has completed nearly 700 work orders through the marketplace. He says his relationship with OnForce is "a win-win for the service buyer and for my business. I get a steady stream of new clients, and the buyer gets the on-demand, high-quality installation and setup services they require."

Keeping busy in this economy isn't easy, Cannone acknowledges. However, OnForce's "adoption rate has accelerated tenfold over the last six or nine months."

Cannone adds that its network of technicians has grown "unfortunately, since so many installation companies have had to let go of employees." It has also seen an influx of installers from Circuit City's now-defunct Firedog installation team.

OnForce's growth is a good thing for the integrators it partners with, Cannone says.

"We can make smaller dealers national overnight. For larger dealers we can augment and complement their existing workforce in geography and skill set."