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You’ve done the research. You’ve evaluated vendors, selected features, and navigated the RFP process. But the work isn’t over yet. The installation phase is where everything comes together—and it should be a rewarding experience, not a stressful one.

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At Watson, we don’t just deliver furniture—we support you throughout the entire journey to ensure your console installation is seamless. Whether it’s your first time managing a project like this or you’ve done it before, the right team, process, and preparation will make all the difference.

We’ve helped teams find success through hundreds of installs, and we know what works. Now, we’re sharing the expert strategies that make installations smooth, efficient, and stress-free.

Step 1: Assemble your team—the right stakeholders matter

Your console installation doesn’t happen in a vacuum. It involves multiple teams—electricians, IT specialists, facilities managers, and more—all of whom play a role in ensuring a smooth transition. Before installation day, connecting your console vendor with all key stakeholders is critical.

This is especially important since console furniture integrates power and technology. The sooner everyone is on the same page, the fewer surprises you’ll have.

Take it from us: The best ECC installs happen when every vendor is connected early. Even small miscommunications can lead to major delays. Otherwise? You risk...

  • Electrical outlets in the wrong location for your consoles
  • Data cables that don’t reach—or don’t connect where they need to
  • Technicians arriving before old furniture is removed
  • Equipment blocked by poorly planned storage or door clearance
  • Power or IT systems down during peak operations

  • These are all avoidable—with the right people at the table from the start.

    Step 2: Decide on the best installation approach

    Your installation plan will depend on whether you need a live cutover (replacing workstations while operations continue), if you can install in phases, or all at once.

    For a live cutover, it’s critical to:

  • Determine the sequence for removing old furniture and installing new consoles.
  • Factor in cleanup time between removal and installation.
  • Set expectations with vendors for when and how equipment will be installed.

  • Hot tip: If you’re planning a live cutover, schedule extra time for cleanup between removal and installation—dust and debris can slow things down.

    Step 3: Prepare for the big day—ask the right questions up front

    Installation day runs smoother when key questions are answered well in advance. Now’s the time to clarify power needs, cable routing, and access logistics with your vendors and partners. Console furniture often intersects with multiple systems, so early alignment prevents day-of surprises.

    Here are some of the conversations worth having ahead of time:

    Electricians

  • How will the console connect to the power source?
  • What’s the power requirement and grounding plan?
  • IT & Communications (CAD, Radio, Phone, Network)

  • Where are the data cable access points?
  • What cable lengths are recommended for video and data?
  • How will cables be terminated and managed?
  • Facilities & Security

  • Are there site access requirements or security clearances?
  • What protective measures are needed for floors or walls?
  • Is there a loading dock or elevator that can be dedicated?

  • Pro move: Do a dry run with your IT team to confirm access points and cable paths before the install crew arrives.

    Insider info: One common hiccup? No elevator or loading access confirmed ahead of time. Don’t let that slow you down.

    Step 4: Keep the communication going—ongoing check-ins matter

    Your vendors may lead the install, but your internal team lives with the outcome. Regular check-ins keep everyone informed and empowered to raise issues before they become roadblocks. These don’t need to be formal—just consistent.

    Make space for insights from every angle:

  • IT teams may flag cable concerns or network needs
  • Facilities may offer better routes for staging or storage
  • Dispatch leads may have shift-based feedback on timing or setup
  • Your vendor has lessons learned from other centers that may help yours

  • Your future self will thank you: Even small ideas—like color-coding cables by function—can eliminate confusion and speed up troubleshooting later.

    No one wants to learn this the hard way: A missing cable route or unflagged shift constraint can cause avoidable downtime. Keep talking.

    The last step: download your console buyer’s guide

    A smooth installation starts with good planning and the right questions. That’s why we created this Buyer’s Guide—a resource designed to help any center, regardless of what vendor you choose.

    Inside, you’ll find:

  • Installation checklists to keep your project on track.
  • Guidance on vendor coordination for power, IT, and security teams.
  • Insights on phased vs. live cutover installations.

  • Your installation should be the rewarding part of this journey—not a burden. Download the guide and set your project up for success.

    Download the Buyer’s Guide

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