Elite ISI - Experts & Thought Leaders

Elite Interactive Solutions, a remote video guarding pioneer using proprietary intelligence and integration to achieve proven crime prevention, announces the company has produced a new series of educational videos. Consisting of five segments ranging from just over four minutes to a little more than seven, the series is designed to provide a synopsis of remote guarding along with more detail on some of the key aspects in a straightforward and easily digestible way. Panel of subject matter experts The series was created from curated sections of a popular session during the 2024 Global Security Expo The series was created from curated sections of a popular session during the 2024 Global Security Expo (GSX) in Orlando, Fla., titled, “Remote Guarding Has Made Real-Time Crime and Catastrophe Prevention a Reality.”  The presentation featured a panel of pioneering subject matter experts in Elite Vice President of Security Solutions Scott Blakeman (moderator), law enforcement executives Tom Stone and Justin Feffer, who is also an attorney focused on cybersecurity, and Canyon Partners Senior Vice President and Director of Security Allen Azran. Remote video guarding   “Due to its remarkable and documented success in preventing crime in real-time and increasing customer awareness and demand, remote video guarding has been capturing the attention of security providers and end users alike,” says Blakeman. “However, few yet fully grasp the crucial elements and the interconnectedness essential to fully realise the solution. This presentation and videos bring needed clarity to the market.” Five key remote video guarding areas Appropriate for the layperson and security professionals investigating this fast-growing opportunity, the series focuses on five key remote video guarding areas. They are:  Part 1: Overview & Basics Part 2: System Design Part 3: Benefits & ROI Part 4: Partner to Law Enforcement Part 5: Future & Technology Elite’s LEAB In extra, segments can be accessed from Elite’s YouTube channel and those unable to watch may opt to listen Each video contains convenient links to the other series parts. In addition, segments can be accessed from Elite’s YouTube channel and those unable to watch may opt to listen just as they would an audio podcast. Stone and Feffer belong to Elite’s Law Enforcement Advisory Board (LEAB), which reviews all police calls for dispatch originating from Elite’s Security Operations Command Centre to ensure optimal procedures, communications and outcomes, and interacts with responding agencies across the country to build and nurture strong private-public crime prevention relationships. As the only provider with a LEAB, and having achieved complete elimination of false alarms, Elite is among the few companies whose calls receive priority police. Advantages of remote guarding “Due to diminishing resources among law enforcement agencies and rising crime, the capabilities and advantages offered through remote guarding are invaluable,” says Stone.  “Remote guarding can not only directly prevent crime but when police are called in, they know it is a true crime in progress and operators can stay on the line as a live eyewitness with critical information that helps them respond more safety, and effectively where apprehensions are concerned. This video series will be an eye-opener for many.”

Elite Interactive Solutions is well known as a remote video guarding pioneer that uses proprietary intelligence and integration to achieve proven crime prevention, but a recent incident underscores how the company also swiftly intervenes when catastrophic or safety issues arise. Recently, Elite Security Operations Command Center (SOCC) operators took fast action after observing an unconscious individual at a client’s site.  Fast action with SOCC Operators executed a voice-down and placed a call to the Phoenix Police Department (PPD) The incident took place overnight in the parking area of a Phoenix-area apartment complex. SOCC operators observed two visibly concerned people attempting to draw the attention of a nonresponsive person inside a silver-coloured Ford Focus. Operators executed a voice-down and placed a call to the Phoenix Police Department (PPD) for an emergency medical response, as the individual inside the vehicle showed no sign of consciousness. The vehicle description and location were relayed to PPD dispatch. Soon after, officers arrived on the scene and further assisted the individual in question.   Real-time body movement assessment “Our operators are not only trained in crime/catastrophe prevention but also to assess body language as an indicator of what’s occurring in real-time to help emergency personnel get to the location and aid with their investigations in a safe manner,” says Elite Security Director Noel Delgado. “By assessing body movement, our operators can not only help stop crime but also help in providing medical assistance to individuals in need. Subjects tripping, falling, holding their chest/head are just some of the movements we look for when assessing medical emergencies.”  7-second live voice-down Elite leads the remote guarding and security industry with an average 7-second live voice-down to protected sites and due to its proven ability to eliminate noise and false alarms, as well as strong nationwide relationships, SOCC calls receive priority response. Whether it’s preventing crime, catastrophe, or other bad things from happening, Elite is there for its client sites, and anyone present during monitored hours to stop harm and save lives.  Emergency response events Another common situation has been the observance of smoke or fires, often with arsonists caught in the act This latest incident is far from an anomaly. A scan of SOCC incidents in the past two years shows nearly 50 such emergency response events. Many are variations of the above example, in which Emergency Medical Services (EMS) were dispatched to sites to help unconscious or injured individuals, including auto accidents. Another common situation has been the observance of smoke or fires, often with arsonists caught in the act. The threat of water incidents such as burst pipes or floods are further examples of how Elite monitors the full range of potential threats to people and assets.  Proactive crime prevention “Although proactive crime prevention is Elite’s primary mission and what it has become most renowned for accomplishing, the technologies and practices involved in that solution are also ideal for mitigating any potentially harmful occurrence, be it human, buildings, grounds or assets,” says Elite Founder and CEO Aria Kozak, who earlier this year was inducted into the Industry Hall of Fame. “We take all of it as seriously as serious can be and are very proud of our thousands of successes preventing manmade disasters as well as crime.” 

Elite Interactive Solutions, a remote video guarding pioneer using proprietary intelligence and integration to achieve proven crime prevention, announces the launch of a new educational webinar series. Featuring some of the industry’s foremost subject matter experts and thought pioneers, the sessions are designed to inform security practitioners about the latest developments in security technologies and methodologies, crime and loss prevention, vertical market challenges, law enforcement, and more.   Remote video guarding systems The free series kicks off Tuesday, Dec. 10 at 11 a.m. Pacific Time / 2 p.m. Eastern Time with, “How Remote Guarding Crushes Crime.” In addition to preventing crime, the hour-long presentation will cover how the solution profoundly impacts losses, liability, and false alarms.  System design practices Unlike traditional security systems and monitoring centre methods, this innovative solution prevents crime More and more businesses and other organisations are discovering the extensive benefits of remote video guarding systems. Unlike traditional security systems and monitoring centre methods, this innovative solution prevents crime in real-time.  By combining proven system design practices, strategically placed surveillance cameras, specially tuned analytics and AI, high-end cybersecurity, skilled command centre agents experienced in diffusing threats, and a trusted relationship with law enforcement, remote video guarding is dramatically transforming security across multiple industries.  Crime prevention experts The session’s panel of pioneering crime prevention experts will help attendees evaluate how this solution can help them better protect their facilities – including augmenting or replacing security guards.  Participating in the panel-style webinar will be Elite Vice President of Client Success & Security Solutions Scott Blakeman, former law enforcement executive Justin Feffer, an attorney specialising in cybersecurity who sits on Elite’s Law Enforcement Advisory Board, and Trophy Automotive Dealer Group Director of Facilities Myrna Dekker. All are experienced authorities for the topic at hand.  Revolutionise security and safety “As with a lot of new technologies and offerings that emerge on the security industry’s radar, there are many misperceptions, misrepresentations, false assumptions, and even fear of the unknown surrounding remote video monitoring particularly as it pertains to remote guarding and crime prevention,” says Blakeman. “With keen insights from an experienced provider rep, law enforcement official, and end-user, we intend to plainly define the solution and its power to truly revolutionise security and safety.” AI, video analytics, cybersecurity Attendees will come to understand the key characteristics that encompass a true remote-guarding solution Those in attendance will have their eyes and minds opened to how advances in AI, video analytics, cybersecurity, and other pioneering-edge technologies are being calibrated, integrated, and deployed to deliver real-world results that proactively stop rather than merely react to crime. Attendees will also come to understand the key characteristics that encompass a true remote guarding solution, as opposed to more general video surveillance or alarm monitoring.  Technology-centric solution By its conclusion, attendees will walk away knowing how a technology-centric solution like remote guarding can make their organisation's security program more effective and efficient, and with a high return on investment (ROI). This webinar is essential for anyone wanting to know more about the heretofore unattainable benefits to be gained through properly executed remote video guarding.

In the realm of physical security, the distinction between being perceived as a security vendor and a security partner holds great importance. While both may seem interchangeable at first glance, how an organisation is viewed by its clients can have a huge impact on the success of its security programmes. At the heart of this differentiation is the concept of relationships and how they shape the dynamics between providers and their clients.  Time, care, and diligence For security vendors such as systems integrators, security dealers, monitored services providers or manufacturers that sell directly to the end user elevating from supplier to partner requires a greater investment of time, care, and diligence. However, the eventual payoff can be incalculably advantageous to the organisation. Not only does this approach better serve the client but it also cultivates longer-term business and is more likely to generate referrals. Clients will change vendors often but stick with partners for the long haul.  Simple installation and/or service Security end-users should look to their security products and service providers to partner with them Security end-users should look to their security products and service providers to partner with them, be vested in their success, and be part of the solution. They should seek out and expect more than a simple installation and/or service in the absence of any real, tangible, and value-added relationship with stakeholders. That means looking deeper than the similar cameras or equipment most vendors provide. Doing so brings benefits from the partnership in solving problems and creating strategies for mitigation.  Vendors have short shelf lives  A security vendor is typically seen as a transactional company that offers products or services to address specific security needs or challenges. When an organisation engages with a vendor, the focus is primarily on the exchange of goods and/or services for a fee. The relationship tends to be more transactional, with limited interaction beyond the scope of the security solution being provided.  Tools, technologies, or service offerings The relationship between a security vendor and a client is often short with a one-time purchase Security vendors often play a crucial role in the security industry by offering specialised tools, technologies, or services that can help organisations improve their defences against threats. Examples would be video surveillance, access control, intrusion detection, or fire/life-safety systems, as well as the monitoring of any of them from a central monitoring station or security operations command centre. The thing about it is, however, that the relationship between a security vendor and a client is often short with a one-time purchase and limited ongoing engagement or consultation.  Partners prove their value  On the other hand, a security partner is viewed as a member of the team that works closely with an organisation to address its security challenges. Unlike a vendor, a security partner is invested in the long-term success of their clients and is committed to building a strong relationship based on expertise, trust, and transparency.  Creating custom solutions Security partners go beyond offering products or services by engaging with companies and organisations Security partners go beyond offering products or services by engaging with companies and organisations to understand their unique security needs, goals, and challenges. They work concurrently with organisations to develop customised security solutions, provide support and guidance, and adapt to ever-changing threats and risks.  When this kind of scenario is developed, the potentially distracting and detracting focus on monetary cost moves to the back burner because the value and return on investment (ROI) are so thoroughly compelling.   Relationships bring real benefits  The core of the difference between being perceived as a security vendor and a security partner hinges on the crucial role of relationships. While vendors focus on transactions and sales, partners prioritise collaboration and a sense of being in it together. Building strong relationships based on trust, communication, and shared goals is essential for forging a successful security partnership.  Personalised approach Security partners navigate complex security challenges, drive innovation, and deliver incredible value over the long term Security partners are not just providers of security solutions; they are trusted advisors who are invested in the success and well-being of their clients. They can be reached easily when needed and emphasise a personalised approach with custom-tailored solutions. By building strong relationships based on respect and understanding, security partners navigate complex security challenges, drive innovation, and deliver incredible value over the long term.  Operational opportunities Businesses and facilities often encounter or face very specific security needs that can only truly be solved in concert with a vendor that essentially acts like an extension of the end-user organisation. Furthermore, when communicating and collaborating on that level, additional security/safety and sometimes even operational opportunities for improvement come to light. This amplifies the value for both the end customer and their security vendor. Talk about a win-win!  Prosper with partner power  While vendors offer products or services, partners offer teamwork, expertise, and a shared commitment At the end of the day, the difference between being a security vendor and a security partner is not merely a matter of semantics. It is about the fundamental difference in approach and mindset toward physical (electronic and networked) security. While vendors offer products or services, partners offer teamwork, expertise, and a shared commitment to reducing losses and crime.   Quality of relationships Ultimately, it is the quality of relationships that separates providers in the security space and determines the success of security initiatives in the current rapidly changing security landscape. This unification of intent, practice, and purpose enables practitioners and the public alike to harness the full power of pioneering-edge technologies that support the security industry’s core mission of protecting people and property. Security partners are not just providers of security solutions; they are trusted advisors who are invested in the success and well-being of their clients. 

The average business owner or investor has some kind of security precaution in place, especially in the after-hours when there are fewer deterrents to inhibit criminal activity. Security guards, video surveillance systems, motion sensor lights, or even just fake cameras placed around the property are some of the common options people choose.  Future of overnight security Smart business owners are starting to realise, however, that some of these traditional security measures are becoming antiquated and no longer cutting. The now and future of overnight security is in remote guarding. Pioneered by companies like Los Angeles-based Elite Interactive Solutions, which was founded back in 2007, remote guarding is revolutionising the overnight security business. Minimising criminal activity Remote guarding is fast becoming the most popular choice among commercial end-user property owners Remote guarding utilises a combination of cutting-edge technology, “digital guards,” highly trained security agents, and local law enforcement if and when necessary to minimise the potential of criminal activity. For those adequately enlightened to its overwhelmingly impressive crime prevention capabilities, remote guarding is fast becoming the most popular choice among commercial end-user property owners to secure and protect their investments. What Is remote guarding?  Remote guarding is a revolutionary concept and increasing trend in security systems that utilises a combination of methods to effectively analyse potential threats to property. Cameras and/or other monitoring devices running highly advanced algorithmic software are installed in strategic areas or vulnerable places onsite and remotely located security agents are immediately notified of any activity within a designated perimeter of the property. A blend of AI, cybersecurity, and video analytics When properly deployed by an expert provider, the technology stack includes a proprietary blend of video analytics, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and more. Done right, “noise” is effectively filtered out, allowing agents to act on legitimate alerts and achieve zero false alarms communicated to first responders. Today, there are a lot of terms and descriptions tossed around about remote guarding, remote video, virtual guarding, etc., but those attributes must be present to represent the true definition of the offering and its many virtues. Realtime situational awareness Many systems have a two-way speaker that allows the security agent to give a verbal warning When specially trained security agents are alerted to trespassers, possible intruders, or other suspicious activity, they analyse the situation in real-time and determine the necessary level of action. Many systems have a two-way speaker that allows the security agent to give a verbal warning, known as a voice-down, to the individual(s) that they are being watched. Most perpetrators, often believing the response is emanating directly from security personnel on the property itself rather than from a remote command centre, flee immediately. However, if the threat persists, the security agent enlists local law enforcement to get on the scene.  Customised remote guarding When properly deployed, remote guarding systems are also customised to specific properties. A team of consultants visits the client’s property to evaluate its vulnerabilities and where to best place cameras and/or other monitoring devices for system efficacy. Traditional security shortfalls  According to Keith Bushey, a retired commander for the Los Angeles Police Department, there is much frustration between law enforcement officers and potential victims of crime due to the historically unreliable performance of traditional burglar alarm systems and central monitoring stations. He states about 90% of security-related calls are false alarms, a problem that has been well-documented through the years. Onsite challenges When a legitimate emergency does occur, the perpetrators have often already done their damage When a legitimate emergency does occur, the perpetrators have often already done their damage and/or escaped by the time law enforcement arrives.  Onsite security guards are not the remedy either as they bring their own set of issues and challenges.  Unexpected costs Traditional security systems can also have unexpected costs. The cost is not only in the security guards’ paycheck or the cost of the equipment itself. The cost comes when an actual incident occurs. In worst-case scenarios, the security guard(s) are injured, the business suffers inventory loss, and/or damage is sustained to the property.  The medical and other costs for the security guard(s), the loss of inventory, property damage, deployment of law enforcement resources, and possible fallout of legal expenses all add up. Even in the best-case scenario, false alarm expenses incur if law enforcement is dispatched. These, among many others, are some of the primary issues that remote guarding resoundingly answers as a superior alternative. A bounty of benefits Remote guarding systems have been proven to cut costs and be more effective than traditional security systems. Even though the monthly monitoring costs of remote guarding are significantly higher than traditional intrusion detection system monitoring, the much higher effectiveness in crime reduction, elimination of false alarms, and augmenting or replacement of manned guards result in a substantially higher return on investment (ROI) to the end user. Easy tracking of threats The security cameras already have their image captured on record, making them easier to track down For example, case studies have demonstrated reduced security costs for clients by 60%, on average. These reductions have come from the costs of security staff, inventory, or property loss, plus saving money on insurance premiums and deductibles. The nature of remote guarding reduces the risk and costs of false alarms, with professional security agents able to determine an actual threat before law enforcement is called. In a rare instance when a perpetrator escapes before law enforcement arrives or can detain the individual(s), the security cameras already have their image captured on record, making them easier to track down and identify. Reduction of false alarms The significant reduction in false alarms is greatly appreciated by law enforcement, as it allows them to focus on real emergencies or crises. Better relationships are also developed between clients and law enforcement, as remote guarding systems are highly reliable in providing accurate and real-time information to officers as they approach the scene. In short, it assists law enforcement in doing their job more effectively, as well as more safely thanks to having eyewitness information before engaging in an active crime scene.  Partnership When you combine the decreased cost with the increased efficiency and success rate, it is easy to see why many commercial end-user property owners across the country are making the shift to remote guarding. It’s also an outstanding opportunity for professional security dealers and integrators to partner with a remote guarding services provider to bring a superior solution to their end customers and pick up a recurring monthly revenue stream in the process.