The requirements of a physical security solution for a multi-building campus are quite different from those for the security of a single building. Gadi Piran, President of OnSSi, lists the immense potential and benefits of implementing an integrated security solution and the key characteristics of an effective solution.

Multi-building campuses such as universities, research facilities, convention centers and hospitals face unique problems in implementing a total physical security solution. All elements must be taken into consideration, including the type of space being monitored, specific integration requirements for equipment such as license plate recognition systems, access control systems and security cameras and other products needed. The factors of when, how and by whom the physical security system and information can be accessed may have very different parameters than what is needed in a single building application, but must carry equally important weight in the security management plan.

Video surveillance system with PSIM functionality

 

In putting together a design to address these issues, the video surveillance system should provide physical security information management (PSIM) functionality. This type of surveillance system can offer the most comprehensive solution and would be able to deliver the best ROI (return on investment) benefit.
 
This sophisticated and less labor-intensive approach will allow security management to efficiently manage virtually the entire physical security system, including surveillance video from cameras at multiple location from a single control platform, on-site control centers, and remote monitoring. Additionally, complex video surveillance and security systems can be centrally managed with efficiency tools such as touch-screen technology, map-based interfaces, context-sensitive pop-up controls and time slice forensics.

The integrated video surveillance platform also allows the user to manage the storage of video and to correlate or fuse video and non-video events. In turn these can then automatically be delivered to viewers of interest. For example, if an alarmed door exit at a facility is breached, video of the unauthorized entry/exit would be automatically “pushed” to pre-selected monitors or command centers, enabling authorities to immediately view the incident and then take any necessary action.

A pushed video stream can give security management actual ''eyes at the scene''

This additional situational awareness provided by the pushed video stream can help to give security management actual “eyes at the scene” and broaden potential incident response in venues that cover several acres. It can also enhance the ability of management and staff to collaborate on different threat levels. To help ensure the integrity of the system, a management server can be programmed on a granular level for information access and control.

Total cost of ownership of a central video surveillance solution

Another benefit of the central solution is its open architecture platform, which helps curb total cost of ownership and optimize ROI. For example, the open architecture platform of OnSSI’s Ocularis Video Management System (VMS) solution is engineered to allow system-wide integration with other security systems. In addition to smooth integration, the open architecture platform promotes flexibility in system design and protection of the original investment.

A total physical security package, including video surveillance integrated with other physical security systems, can all be controlled from a single central management server. In addition to providing convenience and efficiency, this design eliminates the need for and additional cost of matrix switching systems and other expensive or proprietary hardware. Another advantage is that this system will typically run on standard IT servers and adheres to and supports recognized industry standards.
 
Central video surveillance and security systems also provide benefits in allowing users the power to fine tune the systems to match their needs, strategic objectives and budget requirements. The solution is highly scalable and supplemental cameras can be easily added, allowing users to view, manage and record video from an unlimited number of IP and non-IP video surveillance cameras.

An integrated solution lets companies address risk management

Video and beyond

The implementation of an integrated video and security solution can have enormous potential. In addition to their main purpose of centrally managing the physical security system, this solution allows companies to address risk management and business operations. These include asset tracking, traffic monitoring, inventory control, identity management, employee productivity and process monitoring. Program features such as smart search and motion sequence search can translate video from numerous security cameras on multiple sites into usable information and evidence for a public safety team. When used with video analytics for example, the public safety department at a convention center can determine the exact count of occupancy within the ballroom at a moment's notice or based on a threshold established within the system.

The capability of a centrally managed physical security solution to allow for distributed access, shared event management and ease of use can enable higher system-wide efficiency. In multi-building, large campus applications, this results in an ideal solution.

Gadi Piran President OnSSI