You know you can use a hand. But finding the right resource with the right skills and the proper product/project experience is another thing all together. It’s not like you can browse AngiesList.com or the local phone book to find out who’s nearby and who’s the best at automation, instrumentation and control system integration.

That’s why Control Engineering creates the Automation Integrator Guide, a 24/7 searchable online database and annual print directory of more than 1,600 system integrators. Online, enter a name to search for a company, or discover the system integrator you need with a seven-way multi-parameter search that covers geographical region served, product experience, industries served, engineering specialization, corporate affiliations and partnerships, annual revenue, and professional associations.

In print annually, you can find an alphabetical list of integrators starting on page 22. Here’s where you get a visual hierarchy of information. Most listings are one line long and provide basic contact information. More than 270, however, are expanded listings in which the company chose to give you some of the data available in the online search. Like classified ads in the phone book, this extra information can help you decide if a particular system integration company is right for you.

Major automation vendors may also have formal system integrator programs in which they train, support and sometimes certify specific companies. That extra level of technical partnership provides you with another method for choosing among integrators that may seem similar. The print directory has the logos of 14 vendors and associations that can help you narrow your search for the best resource. If you know you want a Wonderware HMI, for example, look for a Wonderware Registered or ArchestrA Certified logo.

The Indexes and Cross References section (page 78), provides further print searchability. You can, for example, identify an integrator with fiber optics experience, or one who’s a member of the American Institute of Chemical Engineers. Of course, online at www.controleng.com/integrators, search is king. In print, pictures prevail. So view the listings, scan the logos and see photos of the integrators our judges have chosen as the System Integrators of the Year for 2008 (page 6). They join some distinguished company. In last year’s competition, the following companies were awarded the crystal statue: Advanced Automation, The Benham Companies, and Concept Systems. Find our more about them by searching their company name at www.controleng.com.

Control Engineering’s consulting editor Vance VanDoren manages the directory database and awards program. If you’re a system integrator for automation, controls, or instrumentation, you may add information to the online directory now using the “Apply for a listing” link or by calling 765-296-7600. More information about expanded listings may be found at www.controleng.com/mediainfo.

Also online, you can subscribe to Control Engineering’s monthly System Integration e-newsletter for news and new product information about control components, industrial networks, wireless technology, power products and enclosures, and the companies who integrate them for others.