CE Pro Podcast #180: How to Win Light Commercial Projects
Episode #
Summary
Residential integrators looking to diversify their businesses and expand into new markets may find opportunities in the light commercial sector, where many of the technologies and skills used in smart home projects can translate to commercial applications.
During a Smart Stage session at CEDIA Expo 2026, Shawn Hansson of Logic Integration and Chapik Ruark of Sonos discussed how residential integration firms can approach the light commercial market, identify potential business opportunities and navigate the challenges of serving a different customer base.
The discussion was moderated by Dan Ferrisi, Group Director of Content + Editorial, Industrial + Tech at Forge.
For residential integrators, light commercial projects can represent a natural extension of their existing services. Technologies such as distributed audio, networking, control systems and video distribution are commonly deployed in both residential and commercial environments, potentially allowing integrators to build on their existing technical expertise.
However, expanding into commercial work also introduces new considerations. Commercial clients may have different expectations regarding system reliability, project timelines, budgets and ongoing support. Integrators considering the transition must understand those differences while determining which types of projects align with their capabilities.
The session also addressed the broader business opportunity for integration firms seeking to diversify their revenue streams. Light commercial applications can include offices, restaurants, retail establishments and other small businesses that require professionally installed AV and control solutions.
As the lines between residential and commercial technology continue to overlap, integrators may find opportunities to apply their experience beyond the home without completely reinventing their businesses.
The full conversation, featuring Hansson, Ruark and Ferrisi, is available in this episode of the CE Pro Podcast, offering residential integration professionals a closer look at the considerations involved in entering the light commercial market.
Featuring:
Summary
Residential integrators looking to diversify their businesses and expand into new markets may find opportunities in the light commercial sector, where many of the technologies and skills used in smart home projects can translate to commercial applications.
During a Smart Stage session at CEDIA Expo 2026, Shawn Hansson of Logic Integration and Chapik Ruark of Sonos discussed how residential integration firms can approach the light commercial market, identify potential business opportunities and navigate the challenges of serving a different customer base.
The discussion was moderated by Dan Ferrisi, Group Director of Content + Editorial, Industrial + Tech at Forge.
For residential integrators, light commercial projects can represent a natural extension of their existing services. Technologies such as distributed audio, networking, control systems and video distribution are commonly deployed in both residential and commercial environments, potentially allowing integrators to build on their existing technical expertise.
However, expanding into commercial work also introduces new considerations. Commercial clients may have different expectations regarding system reliability, project timelines, budgets and ongoing support. Integrators considering the transition must understand those differences while determining which types of projects align with their capabilities.
The session also addressed the broader business opportunity for integration firms seeking to diversify their revenue streams. Light commercial applications can include offices, restaurants, retail establishments and other small businesses that require professionally installed AV and control solutions.
As the lines between residential and commercial technology continue to overlap, integrators may find opportunities to apply their experience beyond the home without completely reinventing their businesses.
The full conversation, featuring Hansson, Ruark and Ferrisi, is available in this episode of the CE Pro Podcast, offering residential integration professionals a closer look at the considerations involved in entering the light commercial market.
