Who has the last word? customer or cuemaker

[Jon]

Of course it's the customer's! He says "I like your idea Ed". LOL Getting to the actual start of the cuemaking for a particular customer is the tough part as the statements "Sorry, I can't do that for you" and "I guess I'll just have to try someone else" are spoken before this point. But once that point is reached, it's pretty much smooth sailing. No holds barred kind of communication is important. I always ask a customer for a "wishlist" then I send them an illustration or explanation of how I interpret it. Then he "FINAL-ly"gets to say the above statement.

I like your style Ed.

Thanks,

Jon

 

[Jon]

This is a good example of lack of communication. The cuemaker has the obligation to tell the customer why his idea is a bad one. Just building a bad cue, well, he did not do himself or his customer any favors.

But again, it's the question of "custom" If I want a special shaft, and am willing to pay for it, why would you not build it? In the case of a ridiculous shaft spec like Macguy mentioned, the cuemaker should just say, well I can make it between "this and this". I can't hold the tolerance to guarantee the shaft you describe.

If I ask for a solid ebony cue with a SS joint at 58" and 17oz., you should warn me that it's going to be pretty skinny! (or hollow).

Unreasonable customers are a part of every business. It's the business owner's responsibility to educate the customer, or just say no.

-CM

CM,

Personally i wouldn't build a cue that i wasn't comfortable building, if i had any doubts during any stage of the process, i would let the customer know, and give him some options. That is, when i get around to building more cues...

Thanks,

Jon

 

[bandido]

I like your style Ed.

Thanks,

Jon

Thanks Jon. It's one of those things that I learned while working in an acute care medical facility. You have to let your customers have their way, with them understanding and letting you have your way.
Edwin Reyes

 

[ajrack]

My colors

I ordered a cue from Kersenbrock (1977)...my colors...and basic design..with certain specs at a couple of locations..and simply told him to put it together >>>HIS WAY!
A year later..it came out GREAT...and I still have it!
...seemed like the best way to have it done...

 

[azbicyclis85376]

Cuemaker has the final word

Think the ability to communicate is important. Both the Cuemaker, and Customer need to be able to communicate with each other.

Than I think the Cuemaker has the final word as to weather they will, or will not build what the customer wishes in a Custom Cue.

As only the Cuemaker knows best their ability, what their equipment is capable of producing, what will and will not work well in combination (i.e. woods, inlays, points, finish, color of wrap, etc).

Plus as someone stated the Cuemaker Signature, or Logo lives with the Cue as long as the Cue is around..

 

[bobroberts]

When I order a cue I give my specs to the CM and tell them to go from there.They are the professionals and I feel I have to give them the freedom to practice their craft.