What's next for Maple R&D?
The last six months have been a mixture of successes and hold-ups for Maple R&D. Happily though, after a number of teething problems, the novel process for analysing environmental conditions within occupied buildings is now working well. This is supported by bespoke hardware that is proving to be reliable and robust.
With most start-ups that are based on innovation and the creation of new technologies, there is a lot to learn and much to do. One of the things Maple has taken on board is the concern expressed by one member. The point made was that Maple risks taking knowledge derived within the PCA and its members and profits by making it available to outsiders. Potentially to the detriment of members commercial interests.
A different approach?
In a world where disputes about the causes and consequences of damp are incredibly common, the risk of Maple disadvantaging members is thought to be vanishing small. However, the Directors of Maple have listened. Consequently, it is the intention of Maple to try a different approach as we begin to think about and prepare for the next winter and the approaching condensation season.
What we would like to try is a model where Maple R&D Ltd promote the moisture diagnostics service to potential customers. The tasks associated with collecting data, including; visiting sites, undertaking inspections, installing data recording devices, downloading collected data and returning the monitoring equipment back to Maple, will be contracted exclusively to members of the PCA who wish to be involved.
Product exclusivity for members
Any member will still be able to buy their own equipment from Maple and pay for reports as they wish. It may also be possible for members to rent kits for individual jobs.
So, if Maple R&D Ltd were to provide you with an opportunity to deliver a survey at a fixed cost that requires two site visits and a further ten minutes behind a computer to download data onto the app, would you want this work?
We want to hear from you!
This idea needs development, but we think this is a way of giving members of the PCA product exclusivity, while benefiting from our efforts to promote what we know to be a powerful product. Ahead of formulating prices, terms and conditions etc, we would like to hear your thoughts. Simply click on the button below and let us know what you think...
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