DPHA Revises the Water Closets & Bidets Manual

The DPHA Education Committee, under the astute leadership of Fred Felder (Simon's Supply) and Traci D'Antoni (D'Antoni Sales Group) has updated the DPHA Water Closets & Bidets manual, one of 22 volumes that comprise the DPHA Education Program. Water Closets and Bidets explains how a water closet works and describes the different types of water closets that are commonly sold in a decorative plumbing and hardware showroom and how they differ from products sold in home centers and other venues that do not specialize in premium to luxury products. The manual also explains different flushing technologies, performance factors and the technological and "wow" factors offered by water closets featuring smart technology whose benefits range from self-cleaning capabilities to heated, illuminated seats.  

 

The information is presented in point-by-point format. Included are suggested questions that sales professionals need to ask to help obtain a better understanding of customer needs and preferences. There is a quiz at the end of each module that can be used as a tool to evaluate information learned.

 

A unique section of the manual offers guidance for selling a $10,000 water closet instead of one that costs $500 or less. Throughout the manual, suggestions appear to help sales associates establish better emotional connections and trust with potential clients and customers. The DPHA Education Program serves dual purposes. One is to explain the technological, performance and aesthetic differences in premium and luxury products featured in decorative plumbing and hardware showrooms and the other purpose is to offer guidance for sales professionals to appeal to the needs, demands and dreams of luxury consumers.

 

The DPHA Education Program is comprised of a series of manuals to familiarize and educate showroom sales staff, manufacturer representatives, manufacturer customer service representatives and others new to the decorative plumbing and hardware industry. Each manual is a training guide that introduces baseline product information to enable showroom staff and others to become familiar with terminology, sales techniques, basic operations and common problems.

 

The Bidet section of the new manual explains how to sell an integrated bidet seat, describes why and how a bidet is used and reviews the different types of bidets commonly sold in decorative plumbing and hardware showrooms. There is a section that explains different spray options.

 

It should also be noted that the Education Program manuals form the basis for DPHA's Recognition Program that offers comprehensive tests for plumbing and hardware categories. The program provides a medium for decorative plumbing and hardware professionals to hone their craft, recognize individuals that have expanded their industry knowledge and provide opportunities for showrooms and others to promote continuing education among their team members.

 

Other modules in the DPHA Education Program include: Accessories, Adorning the Door, Bath Furniture, Bathroom Lighting, Baths (Tubs), Cabinet and Architectural Hardware, Care and Maintenance, Door Hinges, Drains, Finishes, Greening the Bath, Kitchen Faucets, Lavatory Faucets, Locks, Latches and Door Hardware Trim, Multipoint Locks, Protecting the Door, Showers, Shower Systems and Tub Valves, Sinks, Steam Systems, Supplies and Waste Assemblies and Universal Design.

 

Members can view the new Water Closets & Bidets manual by going to the Association's website, www.dpha.net, going to the Members Portal and then following the path "Education > Description & Manuals".  If you need your login information, simply send your email request to Rebekah Covay at rebekah@dpha.net.