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Why C2S?
Systems Manager Jonathan Lyth gives insight into what makes the systems integrator different in an over-crowded broadcast industry.
Q: How did C2S Systems begin?
JL: “Well, in a way C2S is the off-spring of WTS Broadcast. WTS supplies professional broadcast equipment, and they started to get numerous requests for installation services for the products they were selling. C2S Systems evolved from there into the full-service systems integrator we are today.”
Q: What makes C2S different? What do you provide that other companies don’t?
JL: “Our entire proposition is about providing a true end-to-end service, where everything can be done in-house. We deliver everything the customer needs from consultancy to training and chassis supply, to shipping assistance. We also have the ability and willingness to work in many countries and environments that others can’t or won’t. “
Q: What are the benefits of doing everything in-house?
JL: “By controlling all aspects, we reduce timescales and costs whilst ensuring that everything is delivered to a quality we’re proud of. The customer only has to deal with a single organisation and doesn’t have to worry about inevitable day-to-day hiccups of managing a project themselves.”
Q: Why will your costs be lower than other Systems integration companies?
JL: “C2S has relationships with suppliers that other companies struggle to match. We have dealer-buying power coupled with SI knowledge so we also receive benefits from equipment manufacturers that we pass on to our customers. In addition to the broadcast side, we are also a Mercedes accredited partner, which allows us to supply vehicles with correct specifications and warranty for the country and customer.”
Q: How do you choose your equipment and suppliers?
JL: Equipment choice is a balance of technical suitability and budget. We assess the tier of quality and features that the customer is looking for, and present a solution that works for them. We also take into account regional support from the manufacturer.
Q: How does C2S start a project?
JL: First we have an introductory meeting with the key project stakeholders to ensure any queries and concerns are resolved. We then start the design process.
Q: What happens after that?
JL: The production process begins. This can be anything from coachwork to prefabricated systems cabling, depending on the project. The installation will work through the various stages of pre-fab and install.
Q: What happens once a project is completed, what is the typical process for hand-over?
JL: We move the customer into their support structure, either direct to the UK or via one of our local hubs in Lagos or Hong Kong. This way we provide quicker responses to any issues the client may encounter.
Q: Who is the typical customer for C2S? What kinds of companies approach you?
JL: “We have a broad spectrum of customers and projects. While we work with major broadcasters on their studio complexes and playout solutions, we’ll also work with start-up video producers who need small-scale solutions such as edit-suites and green-screen capabilities. We work everywhere in the world, so the businesses themselves are very diverse."
Q: You have a large team of people at C2S, How did you put the team together? What are their specialisms?
JL: "Over the years we’ve put together a specialised team with the skills and expertise to improve and develop our company. Our process hinges on eight different departments: 3D design, systems engineering, coach building, metal fabrication, joinery and cabinet making, project management and admin."
Q: What is it that makes customers loyal to C2S?
JL: "I believe it’s the care we take, the specialist service we provide, and recognising that theres always room to improve. In the more difficult areas of the world, we make sure we have an on-going presence, and even open offices locally for support."
Q: Can you give us a range of examples of C2S’ completed projects?
JL: We have delivered a varied range of projects since we began; to list a few:
Expanding OBs, Small DSNG and Production Panel Van OBs, Double Truck OBs (one system split over two vehicles), Flyaway OBs (removable equipment racks), Drama, Presentation and Entertainment Studios, News studio projects with and without playout and across the globe, IPTV Installations for both live studios and playout centres, 3D Graphics Support Vehicle, and Specialist vehicles such as for research and translation uses. In total we’ve worked on 40 Vehicles in the past 3 ½ years, plus numerous fixed installations.
Q: What has been the biggest achievement since the company started?
JL: The level of repeat custom we are achieving, and the growth of our customer-base in such a short time.
Q: What has been the key to C2S’s Success?
JL: Commitment from all levels of the organisation to make C2S work, and satisfy clients. We consistently assess where things can be improved and rectify any problems.