If you’ve ever worked with a home automation or commercial AV integrator, you’ve probably encountered Crestron systems — the touch panels, processors, and control interfaces that tie together lighting, audio, video, security, and climate control into one seamless experience. But what happens when your integrator’s programming falls short, or you’re building a project and want more control over who writes the code that runs your system? A common question arises: can you hire a Crestron programmer directly, without going through a full-service integration firm?
The short answer is yes. Independent Crestron programmers and dedicated programming firms exist specifically to serve this need, and hiring one directly is not only possible but increasingly common.
Why Direct Hiring Makes Sense
Traditionally, Crestron programming has been bundled into the services offered by AV integration companies. These firms handle everything from equipment sales and installation to wiring and system programming. That model works well for many clients, but it isn’t the only path available.
There are several scenarios where hiring a programmer directly is the better choice:
- Your integrator lacks in-house programming talent. Many AV installation companies are excellent at hardware installation but subcontract or struggle with the programming side. Bringing in a specialist can dramatically improve the final user experience.
- You need a second opinion or a rescue job. Sometimes a system is installed, but the programming is buggy, outdated, or simply doesn’t do what the client wants. An independent programmer can step in to fix or rewrite the code without needing to redo the physical installation.
- You’re a manufacturer, integrator, or builder who wants a programming partner. Larger firms sometimes outsource overflow programming work to independent specialists rather than hiring full-time staff, which keeps costs flexible.
- You want direct communication. Working with a programmer one-on-one can streamline communication, especially for custom or highly technical requirements, cutting out layers of project management.
What to Look for in an Independent Crestron Programmer
Not all programmers are created equal, and Crestron’s programming language and platform (SIMPL Windows, SIMPL#, and increasingly C# based development) require real expertise. When evaluating a direct hire, consider:
- Crestron certification level — Look for Crestron Certified Programmer (CCP) or higher-level credentials.
- Portfolio and references — Ask for examples of past projects, ideally similar in scope to yours (residential vs. commercial, boardroom vs. whole-home).
- Communication and documentation practices — Good programmers document their code and provide clear explanations, which matters if another party needs to service the system later.
- Remote and on-site capabilities — Many Crestron programming tasks can be done remotely, but some projects benefit from on-site testing and commissioning.
An Example: AV Programming Associates
One example of a company built specifically around this model is AV Programming Associates. Rather than functioning as a full-service integrator, AV Programming Associates operates as an independent Crestron programming resource, working directly with homeowners, integrators, and businesses that need dedicated programming expertise without bundling in installation or hardware sales. This kind of specialized firm illustrates how the independent programming model works in practice: clients bring their system requirements or existing installations, and the programming company focuses purely on writing, refining, and troubleshooting the control logic.
Companies like this fill an important niche in the AV industry, especially as more integrators focus on installation and design while outsourcing complex programming to specialists.
Final Thoughts
Hiring a Crestron programmer directly is a legitimate and often smart option, whether you’re an integrator needing extra programming bandwidth, a homeowner whose system isn’t performing as promised, or a business managing a complex AV deployment. By researching certifications, reviewing past work, and considering firms like AV Programming Associates that specialize in independent programming services, you can find the right fit for your project without being locked into a single all-in-one integrator relationship.
