In our experience, the wide range of protocols, hardware and methods that make up a system, rarely all speak the same language. Also The functionality of any pre-fab or proprietary piece of hardware or software will only cover a predestined scope of functions.
This is where Prototyping comes in. Electronics, fabrication, cad and e-cad combined with programming and translating protocols enable us to custom make controllers, parts and components for our projects. Be it to make things talk to each other, or to streamline the amount of junk that can be involved in a technical installation or tour.