Since teaming up with Vivint Smart Home, it's been an excellent sales option for our authorized dealers throughout a majority of the United States. Along with all of the other products and services dealers can sell by partnering with RS&I, providing customers with the leading smart home and automation service from Vivint has been a rewarding experience for everyone involved.

Although, several of our dealers have identified a specific need.

The ability to actually install a Vivint system has been previously reserved for Vivint's technicians only. Until recently, our authorized dealers have only been able to complete the sell and then pass the installation onto the Vivint team. But now, our dealers have both options!

Over-the-air television is making a comeback. Before 2009, it wasn't a highly favored way to watch TV because of its analog signals that were often spotty and blurry. When the laws changed in the United States, the signal went from analog to digital and residents across the nation were able to get clear reception in high definition. 

With all of today's TV-viewing options and their associated costs, over-the-air (OTA) broadcasting provides some relief. It has taken a while to catch on, but more and more viewers are seeing the benefit of getting a good antenna to provide them with free local channels and a high quality image.

Recently, the RS&I team set out to capture an example of a DISH showroom that one of our local authorized retailers set up in their store to help potential customers understand the many benefits and options of getting the DISH service in their homes.

It is a great looking showroom.

The staff was decked out in apparel that represented their own business and the DISH business well. The front desk was equipped with TVs and stools to let customers be at ease as they check out the features of the service and discuss which options will work for their individual needs. 

Most of all, it was well branded, clean and welcoming to any visitors. For anyone looking to become a DISH Authorized Retailer, you'll want to consider what you can do to present the pay-TV service in a professional looking storefront. Get started by reviewing some of the helpful tips laid out in this brief article.

Several important events happened this year for RS&I and we want to take a moment to focus our rear view mirror on the top five biggest stories. Between a new rocket launch, effective marketing tips and new business-to-business opportunities, there is a lot of information to cover.

Each summarized story below has enough highlights to help you achieve a good understanding of the topic and you can dive into any or all of them to get more details as desired.

As you know, marketing plans need to be fluid as you adjust for the unexpected scenarios that regularly arrive at the door step of every small business owner. As soon as you think you know where you're headed, you may have to adapt to new information, delays or even a new strategy.

But having a marketing plan in place is crucial to the overall success of any business these days. A solid plan sets you on solid ground and gives you the direction you need to get the word out about the products and services you offer.

As you refuse to settle for the mediocre, take a look at the tips we'll review below to help you brainstorm some new ideas for your own marketing practices. After all, the new year is upon us and you'll want to make 2018 another big success.