Alarm.com - Experts & Thought Leaders

Members of the Electronic Security Association (ESA) recently approved several competency director and officer positions. After voting for recent director positions concluded on May 24th, Chair-elect Kevin Stone recommended two Competency Directors and requested Board approval on June 2nd. These director positions are selected based on their subject matter expertise and must be an owner, officer, or employee of an ESA Member in Good Standing. Each Competency Director shall serve for a two-year term beginning July 1st, 2024. Competency director positions Kirk MacDowell, the 2023 Weinstock Person of the Year Award winner, is the founder and CEO of MacGuard Security Advisors. Bringing insight from his time at industry innovator Alarm.com, top Fortune 100 manufacturers General Electric and United Technologies, a top 50 SDM integrator, and his own electronic security firm, Kirk now offers guidance on how to innovate, transform, and compete in the ever-changing electronic security landscape. Kirk also remains active in many corps serving on multiple industry and private firm boards A sought-after industry speaker, Kirk also remains active in many associations serving on numerous industry and private company boards. He was the Past Board of Director of the Security Industry Association (SIA) and The Monitoring Association (TMA), past Chairman of AIREF (Alarm Industry Research & Education Foundation), past Chairman of the Security Industry Alarm Collation (SIAC) and past president of the Los Angeles County Burglar and Fire Alarm Association (LABFAA). Kirk currently serves as the Chairman of ESA’s Leadership Identification and Nominating Committee (LINC). Kirk was recently inducted into the SSI Industry Hall of Fame. “I am honoured to join ESA’s board of directors as a competency director and proud to serve the industry that has given me so much. Looking forward to working alongside ESA’s elected board and officers.” Michael Barnes, who recently served as a Competency Director from 2022-2024 under Chairman John Loud, founded Barnes Associates in 1986 and directs the firm’s Mergers and Acquisitions activities. He is based in St. Louis, Missouri. Since founding Barnes Associates, Michael has been involved in more than 280 security alarm acquisitions and financings, with an aggregate transaction value in excess of $29 billion. He has lectured at numerous events within the security alarm industry on matters relating to acquisitions, the availability of capital and the operating dynamics and performance of alarm companies. Michael was the 13th person to be inducted into the SSI Industry Hall of Fame, an honor he received in 2004. Barnes Associates co-sponsors the annual Barnes-Buchanan Conference. “Overall, I feel honoured to once again be invited to serve on ESA’s Board. The organization does such great work in supporting and advocating for the industry, and the Board has a large responsibility for setting direction. I feel the weight of that responsibility and hope I can rise to the occasion.” Officer Positions In addition to the approval of the Competency Directors, the Board approved three officer positions to serve from July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2025. Integrator Director Jeremy Bates, of Bates Security, will serve as Vice Chairman. The Vice Chairman reports to the Chairman and the Board of Directors, serves as liaison to at least one of the standing committees of the Association, promotes all the objectives of the Association, and performs such duties as may be assigned to him or her by the Chairman and the Board of Directors. Competency Director Michael Barnes, of Barnes Associates, will continue in his role as Treasurer. The Treasurer has general supervision of the fiscal affairs of the Association. Integrator Director Melissa Brinkman, of Custom Alarm, will serve as Secretary to the Board. The Secretary is responsible for the preparation of accurate minutes of the proceedings at all membership and board meetings.

The Electronic Security Expo (ESX) is proud to announce the winners of the 2024 Innovation Awards, recognising excellence and innovation within the electronic security and life safety industry. These prestigious awards highlight next-generation products and services that present significant growth opportunities for integrator companies. A comprehensive set of criteria An independent panel of judges selected the winners based on a comprehensive set of criteria, including ingenuity, applicability, response to market needs, and more. The 2024 ESX Innovation Awards Judging Panel, led by Preston Atkins, Systems Engineer at Certified Alarm Co. of AL Inc., also included Richard Tampier, VP of Everon Solutions, Jamie Byrd, VP of Business Development at Security Central, and Gregory R. Breyer, Director of Fire Business Development at Zeus Fire & Security. ESX extends its gratitude to these judges for their dedication and expertise in recognising forward-thinking ideas within the security industry. Efficiency and profitability "The ESX Innovation Award winners showcase the industry's pioneering-edge advancements,” explains ESX Chairman, George De Marco. “These innovative products and services are driving efficiency and profitability. Congratulations to this year's outstanding innovators for shaping the future of security and life safety technology." 2024 ESX Innovation Award Winners ESX congratulates the visionary companies behind these breakthrough technologies. Winners are listed in alphabetical order by category: Access Control/ ID Systems Readers / Keypads AC-2DM by Aiphone Fire/ Life Safety Detection Appliances – Smoke / Heat / Gas Detection Services FireProtect 2 RB (Heat/Smoke/CO) UL Jeweller by Ajax Systems Cellular / Radio Communications Super Dual ™ StarLink Fire Max2 Supervised Dual SIM/ Dual Path Communicator by NAPCO Security Technologies Inc. Installation/ Service Tools Tools / Testers Camerashine Surveillance Cleaning Kit– Clean Any Camera Safely from the Ground by Camerashine Systems Design / LifeCycle Maintenance – Commercial System Surveyor 2.0 by System Surveyor Intrusion Systems Outdoor Detection MotionCam Outdoor (PhOD) Jeweller by Ajax Systems Monitoring (Central Station) Alarm Monitoring for End User Patented Becklar Engage Platform– an AI-Powered Platform that Makes a Difference in the Moments that Matter by Becklar Smart Home IT / Networking Araknis 920-Series Switch by Snap One Home Automation / Home Control Systems Control4 Halo Touch Remote by Snap One Specialty Products & Services Power Supplies & Batteries CP1500PFCRM2U PFC Sinewave Short-Depth UPS System by CyperPower Systems Video Surveillance Managed Video Advanced Interactive Video Monitoring and Remote Guarding Solution – Eyeforce by Becklar Video Analytics Alarm.com: AI Deterrence (AID) by Alarm.com Video Management Software Eagle Eye 911 Camera Sharing/ Eagle Eye 911 Public Safety Sharing Complete by Eagle Eye Networks Megapixel / HD Cameras First Alert VX3 HD Outdoor Camera by Resideo IP Cameras TurretCam (8 Mp/2.8mm) by Ajax Systems The ESX Innovation Awards continue to spotlight the innovative efforts of companies that are shaping the future of the security and life safety industry. The awards ceremony will take place during the ESX 2024 Expo, where attendees can explore these innovative products and services. TechVision challenge TechVision Challenge is an opportunity for manufacturers and service providers The TechVision Challenge is a Shark Tank Style Competition held at ESX where judges recognise outstanding products and services that drive the electronic security and life safety industry forward. The TechVision Challenge is an opportunity for manufacturers and service providers to come up with innovative end-user offerings and tools that help dealers, integrators, and monitoring professionals become more efficient and profitable. Judging criteria The selection of the winner is based on specific judging criteria that include: Features & Functions Aesthetic & Design Qualities Groundbreaking or Innovative Improving End User Experience Overall WOW Factor Improves Efficiency Increases Company Value Regulatory Compliance It is up to each contestant to prepare their presentations for the competition and the TechVision Challenge judging criteria will be used to determine what product or service will be named Best of Show for ESX 2024. Interactive judging panel In 2024, 9 participants from the Innovation Awards judging process were invited to compete in the TechVision Challenge and an interactive judging panel of a minimum of 3 judges watched the presentations. The judges then have up to 12 minutes for each presentation to judge each product. In 2024, they had incredible products in the competition for “Best of Show”, but the ultimate winner was Ajax Systems for the FireProtect 2 RB (Heat/Smoke/CO) UL Jeweller with runner-up Eagle Eye Networks for their Eagle Eye 911 Camera Sharing/ Eagle Eye 911 Public Safety Sharing Complete.

The PSA Network, the world’s largest consortium of professional systems integrators, announced the addition of Shooter Detection Systems (SDS), an Alarm.com company, to its technology partner roster. SDS offers Active Shooter Intelligence, a comprehensive solution that combines next-generation sensors, advanced situational awareness software and seamless data integration with 911 services. SDS was added to the PSA Network as a part of its commitment to providing the best security solutions to its members and owners. With a long history of pioneering work in gunshot detection, SDS engineers started with military applications and have continued to innovate, producing award-winning commercial products that attract new customers year after year. Active Shooter Intelligence capabilities Certification underscores SDS's commitment to delivering top-tier security solutions “SDS brings the only indoor gunshot detection system with Active Shooter Intelligence capabilities to our network,” said Matt Barnette, president and CEO of the PSA Network. “This partnership is a valuable addition to our portfolio, equipping our members with advanced and dependable security tools to meet the diverse needs of clients, from small businesses to large companies.” SDS stands out with its SAFETY Act Certification from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security for indoor gunshot detection. This certification underscores SDS's commitment to delivering top-tier security solutions that meet the highest standards of safety and reliability. Integrating SDS’s proven technology "We are thrilled to announce our partnership with SDS, a pioneer in innovative safety technology," said Brittany Board, director of technology partners of the PSA Network. "Integrating SDS’s proven technology into our product offerings marks a significant step forward in safeguarding our schools and workplaces." From May 28 through July 31, PSA integrators can purchase the required SDS starter training kit using PSA Training Bucks. Gunshot detection technology “We are delighted to join the PSA Network, aligning with our mission to make our technology accessible to organisations of all sizes,” said Rich Onofrio, CTO for Shooter Detection Systems. “In the rapidly expanding gunshot detection market, PSA members can now leverage our pioneering solution to meet increasing customer demand for dependable gunshot detection technology.” PSA offers solutions from pioneering security and audio-visual manufacturers.

ISC West 2025 in Las Vegas showcased the latest advancements in security technology, offering security professionals a glimpse into the future of the industry. This year's expo highlighted the growing influence of artificial intelligence (AI), cloud computing, and enhanced integration. The pioneering comprehensive and converged security event attracted nearly 29,000 industry professionals to the Venetian Convention Centre.  Integration into unified platforms Several companies emphasised the importance of cloud-based solutions and the integration of diverse security components into unified platforms. For example, Brivo's Security Suite provides “everything in one platform” – not just access control. Customers only pay for what they use because the system is flexible and scalable from a single door to enterprise level applications. Brivo’s suite includes video, but the system can also tie in with third-party “partners.” Genetec's Security Centre allows for more frequent updates through the cloud. Milestone is undergoing a two-year transition to bring its Xprotect system into the future by incorporating Arcules and Briefcam into a video-as-a service product. Suprema introduced BioStar X, which integrates access control and video analytics into a single platform. AI and mobile credentials  Axis Communications’ Cloud Connect product announced three new partnerships at ISC West 2025 Axis Communications’ Cloud Connect product announced three new partnerships at ISC West – Eagle Eye Networks, SecuriThings, and Wesco. They join the three partners announced during the first year of Axis Cloud Connect – Genetec, Kone (elevators) and Milestone. AI and mobile credentials were still hot topics at ISC West 2025, but the conversation has evolved beyond amazement at the technologies’ capabilities and now centres on more practical aspects. From the theoretical to the practical “AI and mobility are still the ‘flavors de jour,’ but messages are evolving to manifest AI for better outcomes,” says Heather Torrey, General Manager, Commercial Security, Americas, for Honeywell Building Automation. The company has reframed its security portfolio to be very building- and business-focused, continuing to grow and evolve after the recent acquisition of LenelS2. “From the theoretical to the practical, we want customers to be part of the conversation so we can deliver AI that is meaningful to them, focusing on what’s most important,” says Torrey. Under Honeywell’s new ownership structure, “each part of the business can be more focused on customers’ needs,” she says. Honeywell continues its journey around mobile access and credentialing and migrating to cloud solutions. Innovations in Access Control Gallagher’s new Quickswitch access control board simplifies the migration from legacy systems Access control remains a critical component of security systems, and ISC West 2025 showcased several innovations in this area. Acre is releasing “Gallery,” its version of the App Store for access control. DormaKaba is launching the Keyscan KC Series door controller with TCP/IP connectivity and enhanced features. Gallagher’s new Quickswitch access control board simplifies the migration from legacy systems. Johnson Controls highlighted its C-Cure command centre and C-Cure IQ web client, offering a unified approach to access control and video. Hardware integrations for security panels For service provider Alarm.com, hardware products prepare a path to greater customer experiences, says Abe Kinney, Alarm.com’s Director, Product Management, who oversees hardware integrations for security panels, sensors, video, etc., and drives new product development. “We are looking to bridge the physical world to digital world,” he says. “We want to bring an advantage to our dealers that they can bring to customers.” Because Alarm.com’s customers pay a monthly fee, the products must be durable and economical, says Kinney. “It should work with no need for truck rolls.” The importance of longevity and flexibility Products are evaluated based on features, price, and ease of installation Products are evaluated based on features, price, and ease of installation. In particular, longevity is important for the Alarm.com’s pro channel. There is also a growing emphasis on deterrence industrywide. Says Kinney: “We recognise that detection is part of it, but we need to prevent problems from happening in the first place. And the industry is re-evaluating.” When it comes to cloud intelligence, Eagle Eye Networks puts the emphasis on flexibility. They offer AI that can perform anywhere on the system infrastructure, on the camera, on their on-site bridge device, or in the cloud. They support their own AI and also any AI product from a third party. “We focus on what customers want from the data AI detects,” says Hans Kahler, Eagle Eye Networks’ Chief Operating Officer. Integration with other systems A timely alert from gun detection could save a life, but AI can also generate information that might be used and analysed later, such as point-of-sale information, dwell time, foot traffic, etc. “What people want is the ability to work with the data for business intelligence,” says Kahler. Integration with other systems provides new opportunities for customers: For example, a licence plate reader at a restaurant drive-thru could trigger customisation of the menu board digital signage based on the customer’s previous buying pattern. Relentless Innovation Assa Abloy handles more than 40 million SKUs for all its various brands, faked in 28 factories in the US Assa Abloy handles more than 40 million stock keeping units (SKUs) for all its various brands manufactured in 28 factories in the United States. Merely complying with regulations such as the “Buy American Act” is a monumental effort considering the massive product line, attendees heard at Assa Abloy’s Annual ISC West Breakfast focusing on compliance challenges in the security market. Meanwhile, back at the trade show booth, Assa Abloy focused on “relentless innovation” in every corner of its product line. Assa Abloy’s message: Innovation in security does not have to be about AI or automation. In fact, inventive approaches to products come in all shapes and sizes and at every level of the product portfolio, and innovation is happening faster than ever. For example, the Safebolt product from Securitech, a brand recently acquired by Assa Abloy, can quickly lock down existing doors with the press of a red button on a cylindrical or mortise lock. Temporary Systems to Secure Events Securing events is the focus of Allied Universal's Unified Command Solutions, which specialises in setting up temporary security systems for conventions, trade shows, festivals, construction sites, parades, and other events. They can add technology to situations where previously mostly security officers were used, providing safety/security and enabling more efficient event operation.  “We can put cameras anywhere, whether they need power or not, use cell service or WiFi, a localised network or the internet, or whatever,” says Andrew LaMadrid, VP, Sales for Allied Universal's Unified Command Solutions. Event operation and management IDIS came to ISC West looking to leverage new products that they did not promote in the past The focus is on easy implementation, flexibility, and fast setup and removal. “We look for a solution to solve each customer’s pain points,” says LaMadrid. They specialise in setting up and deploying surveillance cameras for safety/security and for event operation and management. Mobile surveillance is a relatively new “piece of our puzzle” when it comes to protecting high-profile events. “People are excited about what we can offer that’s new,” says LaMadrid. Unified Command Solutions has been around for about 12 years and was acquired by Allied Universal last summer. IDIS came to ISC West looking to leverage new products that they did not promote in the past, and visitors were very interested in those solutions, says Scott Switzer, IDIS CEO. “The progression of our product line has been tremendous,” he says. Last year, the IDIS booth offered only basic analytics, but this year they had 30 different advanced analytics including gun and aggression detection using the advanced solution “IDIS Vaidio AI.”  What Makes You Different? The most common question IDIS hears at their trade show booth is: “What makes you different?” The answer: They offer an end-to-end solution, including cameras; they manage, control, design from end-to-end; and there is no need for multiple integrations. The time needed to install an IDIS system is significantly less because of the simplicity. “We have customers we have supported and grown together for over 20 years,” says Switzer. The company previously deployed IDIS cameras under the Costar brand before the Korean IDIS brand was introduced into the U.S. (IDIS purchased Costar and changed the name to IDIS America.) “This has been a tremendous show for us; we are looking to build our momentum and let more people know about IDIS,” says Switzer. Managing real AI at the edge The depth of their metadata enables new applications, whether for security or business operations Based in Prague, Czech Republic, and with U.S. offices in Pennsylvania, FF Group provides licence plate recognition for harsh environments. Using Axis cameras, they offer “managed real AI at the edge,” selling through a nationwide distributed network, says Alex Osypov, CEO and Founder of FF Group. Markets include parking lots, cities/municipalities, police, government, water systems, etc. The depth of their metadata enables new applications, whether for security or business operations. They are looking to combine and correlate data including LIDAR, RADAR, etc. to exploit the advantages of “data fusion.” Osypov says: “The market is growing because we are involving other adjacent markets.” Unified platforms and advanced tools Several companies are focusing on enhancing security operations centres (SOCs) by providing unified platforms and advanced tools. Axon’s Fusus system “layers” onto existing infrastructure, tying together various sensors into a single interface for real-time monitoring and information sharing. Increasingly, enterprises have invested in a lot of technologies – ac, video, asset trackers – but none of it talks together. Fusus ties all the systems together so that operators no longer have to look at 10 different screens. Rather, there is a “single pane of glass” that shows everything and facilitates sharing of information with law enforcement.  Motorola also showcased its Security Operations Centre, which integrates hardware, software, smart sensors, communication radios, and broadband devices to streamline incident management.

There is no shortage of threats facing security professionals, including some that are new and emerging. Understanding various new threats allows individuals and organisations to take proactive steps to protect themselves, but the first step is to identify what those threats are. Early detection of threats can minimise the impact of a successful attack, whatever the vulnerability at issue. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: What new and emerging threats will physical security professionals need to be prepared for in the future?

College campuses are meant to be places of learning, growth, and community. Fostering such an environment requires the deployment of policies and technologies that ensure safety and security. Considering the growing role of security technology in the higher education market, we asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: What are the new applications for security technology in the college and university markets?