Axon - Experts & Thought Leaders

Verkada, the pioneer in cloud-based physical security announced that it has added six new technology partners to its Integrations programme: Appriss Retail, Auror, Axon Evidence, CompScience, Extreme Networks, and RedBag.  This expanded range of supported integrations will empower Verkada customers across a range of verticals, including retail, law enforcement, manufacturing, and education, to address even more use cases with Verkada's platform and solutions. Verkada's Integrations programme "Verkada's supported integrations are making it even easier for our customers to leverage Verkada's powerful platform," said Brandon Davito, Senior Vice President of Product and Operations. He adds, "As we continue to add more trusted technology partners to Verkada's Integrations programme with deep expertise in verticals, we'll continue to unlock even more value for our more than 28,000 customers globally and across even more complex environments and use cases." Six new technology partners With Appriss Retail, a loss prevention and return management solution, retail customers can seamlessly pair their Verkada cameras with Appriss Retail's operational analytics to quickly identify and review suspicious transactions. With Auror, a retail crime intelligence solution, customers can easily export video archives from Verkada Command into Auror. By consolidating footage and reports through Auror, retailers, and law enforcement can more effectively collaborate to identify repeat offenders, trends, and organised retail crime networks. With Axon Evidence, customers can seamlessly export video archives from Verkada Command into Axon Evidence, Axon's cloud-based digital evidence management platform, simplifying and streamlining workflows for law enforcement and public safety agencies. Axon Evidence is designed to securely store, manage, and share critical video and multimedia evidence collected from body cameras, drones, and other devices, ensuring efficient collaboration and compliance with legal standards. With CompScience, a safety-driven analytics solution, customers can combine Verkada's high-quality video with CompScience's safety analytics to analyse work environments and identify potential safety hazards – ultimately enhancing operational efficiency, safety, and security in high-liability work environments. With Extreme Networks, a cloud-based network infrastructure and management solution, customers can provision Verkada cameras in a secure, multicast-enabled segment using a zero-touch setup to automatically apply networking policy rules. With Redbag, a silent communications tool that provides broadcast and two-way communication between the classroom and emergency responders, customers can connect their Verkada devices to RedBag's dashboards to enhance situational awareness during lockdown events and provide video access to first responders during a crisis. These new technology partners join 12 existing members including Fūsus, HiveWatch, SingleWire Software, and Sureview.

Axon, the global public safety technology pioneer, launched a new generation of body cameras designed for frontline workers in retail stores and healthcare facilities.  Axon Body Workforce adapts the same life-saving technology trusted by more than 2,000 law enforcement agencies around the world for enterprise organisations, helping them protect their most valuable resources — people. Axon Body Workforce Available for purchase in the U.S., Australia, Canada, EU, and U.K., Axon Body Workforce is lightweight, customisable and integrated with Axon's industry-pioneering real-time operations and evidence management technology. "Public safety is about just that — people feeling and being safe in public, including while at work," said Axon CEO and Founder Rick Smith. "That's why Axon Body Workforce is so critical to our mission to protect life. It marks a new chapter in body-worn cameras, built to address the workplace violence affecting frontline workers." Largest healthcare networks Every day, retail workers perform their duties while grappling with threats to their personal safety Every day, retail workers perform their duties while grappling with threats to their personal safety. A recent survey by Axon found that in the U.S., a staggering 47% of retail workers have experienced violent incidents on the job. Axon Body Workforce has been trialled by some of the largest healthcare networks and global retailers, demonstrating early success in deterrence and de-escalation. One trial retailer saw a net 53% reduction in incidents, while another reported 47% of active incidents being effectively de-escalated after activating recordings on the camera. Frontline workers' safety "The new Axon Body Workforce body-worn camera is not only useful for promoting frontline workers' safety, but also aids law enforcement agencies responding to the recent rise in violence in healthcare, retail and other commercial settings by providing easily accessible digital evidence," said Former Chief of the Dallas Police Department Renee Hall. "This solution shows Axon's continued commitment to keeping our communities secure as public safety challenges evolve." Safety for every shift Axon Body Workforce features the quality hardware of Axon body cameras alongside Axon's robust real-time capabilities and simple evidence management workflows, making it easier to act on captured footage. Benefits of Axon Body Workforce include: Deterring and De-escalating Incidents: Protects employees by capturing high-quality video evidence of employee-customer interactions, while also respecting their privacy. With a simple double tap activation that is lightweight for wearing, employees can easily ensure all critical moments are recorded by Axon Body Workforce. Supporting in Real-Time: Equips employees with a communications beacon to protect themselves with situational awareness, allowing for quicker and more effective interventions. Axon Respond's live capabilities enable employees to ask for help in the moment, while having a camera present encourages better behaviour and discourages crime in the workplace. Promoting Transparency: Manage high-quality, easily searchable footage in Axon Evidence to gain transparency into all interactions. Upload, manage and share footage internally and externally with Law Enforcement and District Attorneys to ensure teams are staying safe and to expedite the path from incident to adjudication. Further, this evidence can uphold internal standards, clear up claims or disputes, and build a library of in-field footage for ongoing training. Early beginnings in enhancing hospital security Axon formed the Enterprise team in 2020 to serve the needs of healthcare facilities that saw a marked increase in incidents during the start of the coronavirus pandemic. On average, two nurses every hour are assaulted in the U.S., and nurses are nine times more likely to experience workplace violence than any other profession. Axon's customers Of note, Axon clients see operational data management time cut almost in half Axon's technology is represented in 33% of hospitals in the U.S., covering more than five million care providers and patients. Results have shown that through the widespread adoption of body cameras, healthcare centres are realising compelling benefits, including a decrease in litigation costs. Of note, Axon customers see operational data management time cut almost in half. Axon's development of technology "After deploying Axon's technology over the past few years in our healthcare centres, I have come to see body-worn cameras as an essential tool for successful interactions between our care providers, patients and visitors," said Legacy Health Director of Safety and Security Services Luke Heckathorn. "We welcome Axon's development of technology customised for our environment and the safety of our frontline workers." Future of safety and security Following the introduction of Axon Body Workforce, Axon will continue to partner with healthcare environments, retailers, industry experts, and trade associations alongside law enforcement to help shape the future of safety and security for frontline workers.  Axon is committed to forming meaningful partnerships in efforts to protect frontline workers, support essential organisations in society and ultimately improve the safety of the communities.

Gunnebo Safe Storage solutions have been specified for Private Vaults for Safe Deposits in Dubai’s premier lifestyle destination, City Walk, partnering with AXON to support the complete installation process. Private Vaults for Safe Deposits, which has two facilities across UAE, sourced Gunnebo Safe Storage for City Walk to provide safe storage solutions for its customers. The specifications included the Safe Store Auto and Electronic Safe Deposit Locker System. Next-generation solutions  Next-generation solutions allow customers to deposit or retrieve precious items at any time The next-generation solutions allow customers to deposit or retrieve precious items at any time, on any day of the week, offering total flexibility and peace of mind, with no compromise to security. Mr. Riyadh Al Ithawi, Managing Director/Partner of Private Vaults for Safe Deposits, commented: "At Private Vault, we understand the importance of security and discretion when it comes to storing valuable items. The installation of Gunnebo's Maxi Safe Store Auto and Electronic Safe Deposit Locker system, facilitated by Axon, ensures we continue to offer our clients the highest level of security and peace of mind." Gunnebo Safe Storage solutions Al Ithawi added: “The automated mechanisms enable a seamless self-service operation by customers, to access their valuables with ease and confidence, anytime they need. We have already received very positive feedback and look forward to extending our safe storage services to our facilities across the UAE.” Gunnebo Safe Storage solutions have been designed to store valuable items and documents in a secure location. The automated system enables Private Vault to save on resources with the self-service operations and offer 24 / 7 accessibility. The systems were installed at City Walk, by Gunnebo Safe Storage Channel Partners AXON. Latest automated technology  Private Vaults is looking to raise the specification of Gunnebo Safe Storage deposit box systems Mr. Ijaz Anwer, General Manager at Axon, added: "The partnership between Gunnebo Safe Storage, Axon, and Private Vaults for Safe Deposits highlights the importance of collaboration in delivering innovative security solutions tailored to the needs of high-end clients."  “As the demand for secure storage continues to grow in the region, we remain committed to providing the latest automated technology that meets the evolving needs of our customers, available in central locations such as City Walk, to operate with 24/7 easy access with no compromise to design.” Private Vaults is now looking to increase the specification of Gunnebo Safe Storage deposit box systems across its portfolio. Innovation and customer satisfaction Gareth Hughes, Gunnebo Safe Storage Middle East Business Development Manager concluded: “We are proud to support Private Vaults with our secure storage solutions. The successful implementation of the Safe Store Auto and Electronic Safe Deposit Locker System not only highlights the importance of advanced security measures but also underscores our commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction." “We look forward to continuing our partnership with Private Vaults for Safe Deposits and expanding the reach of our technology across their facilities in the UAE, ensuring clients can benefit from the highest level of safe storage security and convenience.”

An attention-grabbing exhibit at GSX 2024 in Orlando involved a robot dog that could open a door.  Boston Dynamics robot dog ASSA ABLOY impressed attendees with the robotics demonstration, featuring the Boston Dynamics robot dog that could open a door using either an HID credential or a mechanical grip. This innovation represents a shift toward more autonomous security solutions and is suitable for environments where human access may be limited. ASSA ABLOY impressed attendees with the Boston Dynamics robot dog Operational efficiency Eye-catching exhibits at the GSX in Orlando, showcasing the future of security technology It was one of many eye-catching exhibits at the GSX in Orlando, showcasing the future of security technology, and offering practical solutions to the industry's challenges.  For security professionals, the advancements presented opportunities to enhance operational efficiency and to maintain a proactive stance in a rapidly evolving market.  Control ID face identification Alongside their robot demonstration, ASSA ABLOY also highlighted the Control ID Face Identification.  Access Controller, providing advanced facial recognition access control. From identity management to AI-driven surveillance systems, GSX 2024 offered a glimpse into the tools that can streamline processes, increase security, and reduce costs. Here are some other highlights. ASSA ABLOY also highlighted the Control ID Face Identification More integration with critical infrastructure  A major theme at GSX 2024 was the increasing integration of security solutions with critical infrastructure. ALCEA (formerly ASSA ABLOY Critical Infrastructure) is an example. Their globalised software solution ALWIN is designed for managing access control, visitor management, and other security factors across multiple locations. ALCEA's approach involves not only internal collaborations within ASSA ABLOY but also partnerships with external organisations. An example of innovation is the Neenah Foundry lockable manhole cover, blending safety and security. Solving identity management challenges  The solution simplifies onboarding and access request changes while ensuring compliance with policies Identity management continues to be a key focus in the security sector, and AMAG Technology addresses this need with its Symmetry Connect product. The solution simplifies onboarding and access request changes while ensuring compliance with policies. For professionals overseeing identity access management, Symmetry Connect provides a streamlined, automated approach, reducing human error and increasing operational efficiency. AMAG also sees a growing demand for efficient visitor management systems, especially in the post-COVID landscape. AMAG’s products cater to the need for enhanced security without overburdening staff.  AI and cloud-based surveillance solutions  Axis Communications highlighted its advancements in AI and cloud-based video management systems with its AXIS Camera Station Edge and Pro products. These solutions can connect seamlessly to cloud systems, providing security professionals with easy access to surveillance data anywhere. With the increasing need for centralised management, Axis’s offerings ensure that security teams can efficiently manage surveillance with minimal infrastructure. Axis also showcased its commitment to AI-driven analytics based on superior video quality. There were also networked audio solutions for public announcements and background music, among other uses. Body-worn cameras for corporate and school uses  Traditionally focused on law enforcement, Axon is now expanding its body-worn cameras and TASER technology into corporate and school security environments. Their Axon Body Workforce camera is a practical solution for protecting frontline workers in high-risk environments.  Axon also introduced drone-based solutions for real-time aerial awareness Axon also introduced drone-based solutions for real-time aerial awareness, a significant benefit for large campuses or remote locations. As more industries adopt corporate surveillance systems, Axon’s offerings provide flexible, scalable solutions that address the need for real-time, actionable intelligence.  Cloud-based access for smart buildings  Brivo’s native cloud systems and flexible credentials offer practical, future-proof security options Brivo showcased how cloud technology is revolutionising access control by offering systems that integrate seamlessly with other smart building platforms. Their open API approach enables collaboration with IT teams, bridging the gap between physical security and IT management. Brivo’s new partnership with Comcast Smart Solutions illustrates how large enterprises can implement advanced solutions, including access control while maintaining flexibility. For professionals managing complex building environments, Brivo’s native cloud systems and flexible credentials offer practical, future-proof security options.  AI-powered multi-sensor camera  Hanwha focused on an AI-powered multi-sensor camera, equipped with an NVIDIA processor capable of running complex analytics. In addition, Hanwha’s new AI camera technology can process multiple video streams simultaneously, either stream from its sensors or outside cameras, enabling better tracking of objects in complex environments. Their eight-channel AI Box, which converts legacy cameras into AI-enabled devices, is an attractive solution for professionals seeking to upgrade existing systems without the need for complete overhauls. For security teams looking to enhance situational awareness, Hanwha’s AI-based offerings provide advanced, scalable solutions.  Workflow management and hybrid cloud security  Genetec continued the theme of integrated solutions with their Operations Centre module for Security Centre, which consolidates work management into a single platform. Built on lean management principles, this system simplifies workflow for security professionals, promoting real-time collaboration across mobile and web platforms. As the industry shifts from on-premises systems to hybrid cloud solutions, Genetec’s products provide seamless transitions for organisations. Their new SaaS Security Centre also allows for natural language video searches in multiple languages, making it easier for global teams to manage operations across locations.  Simplifying remote surveillance  The company’s focus on scalability and efficiency is demonstrated by the “Eagle Eye Complete” subscription service Eagle Eye Networks showcased their continued international expansion, highlighting a new data centre opening in Saudi Arabia and new hiring initiatives in Australia and Europe. Their “Eagle Eye Anywhere” solar-powered camera system exemplifies the move towards flexible, easy-to-install solutions that can be deployed in remote locations. Integrators benefit from simplified maintenance through remote management, reducing the need for on-site support and ensuring operational continuity. The company’s focus on scalability and efficiency, as demonstrated by the “Eagle Eye Complete” subscription service, reflects the broader industry’s shift toward managed security services.  Tailored solutions for commercial clients  Everon continues its transition away from its former identity as ADT Commercial. Claiming the status of a competitive commercial integrator, Everon is reinventing itself by offering customised billing and monitoring solutions for a range of industries. Their cloud-based business intelligence platform, which combines video surveillance with data analysis, is aimed at enhancing operational awareness by detecting anomalies such as OSHA violations or retail point-of-sale exceptions. With AI-driven dashboards, clients can customise their security solutions to meet specific needs, reflecting a growing demand for tailored, data-driven security applications.  Innovation through cloud and mobile LenelS2 is part of Honeywell, and they emphasised their investment in cloud and mobile solutions at GSX 2024. Their "Enterprise OnGuard Cloud" platform, launched in June 2024, is a testament to the growing demand for cloud-enabled access control systems. With the addition of NFC-enabled Blue Diamond credentials, LenelS2 is pushing towards smarter, more secure mobile access options. The strategic combination of Lenel’s solutions with Honeywell’s infrastructure offers users enhanced engineering capabilities and global reach. This reflects a broader market trend of integrating mobile devices into physical security protocols.  Bringing AI to everyday security LPR system, combined with their Searchlight Cloud Analytics, offers a powerful tool for identifying security risks March Networks highlighted their new AI-driven smart search feature, designed to help security teams quickly detect operational anomalies in retail and financial environments. From identifying misplaced cash in quick-service restaurants (QSRs) to detecting "jackpotting" attacks on ATMs, their solution highlights the increasing importance of AI in enhancing both security and operational efficiency. Their Licence Plate Recognition (LPR) system, combined with their Searchlight Cloud Analytics, offers a powerful tool for identifying and responding to security risks in real-time, emphasising the practicality of AI in daily security operations.  Driving sustainability in security  Securitas showcased its commitment to sustainability, a growing concern for businesses across all industries. By providing CO2 data for clients and promoting digital tools like mobile credentials, Securitas is leading the charge in creating greener, more sustainable security solutions. Their focus on remote services and occupancy insights offers companies a way to reduce their environmental impact while enhancing security operations. The company’s alignment with science-based targets and circular economy practices signifies the increasing role sustainability will play in the security sector.  Future lies in integration  The GSX 2024 trade show revealed that the future of security lies in intelligent integration, AI-driven analytics, and cloud-based management systems. The innovations presented will help security professionals streamline their operations, enhance situational awareness, and future-proof their systems. As these technologies continue to evolve, professionals must stay informed about the latest advancements to maintain a competitive edge in the security marketplace. GSX was a great place to start. At the end of the day at GSX, it wasn’t just the robot dog that was opening doors …. to the future of security systems. {##Poll1727925373 - Of the important factors highlighted at GSX 2024, which do you consider most when adopting new security solutions?##}

For police, BWCs can significantly improve how evidence is collected by recording the visual and audio actions Body worn cameras (BWCs) are becoming common place in law enforcement. While the spotlight for body cameras is on police in the news, BWCs are also sought after in security-related contracts for airports, campuses, correctional facilities and for private security. It’s quite likely interactions with police or security guards will be recorded (people who record video on mobile devices and the presence of video security cameras) and most police feel it’s best to own the recordings. Roy L. Austin, Jr., Deputy Assistant Attorney General, Civil Rights Division, U.S. Dept. of Justice said in a recent Police Executive Research Forum research paper, “Everyone around you is going to have a camera, and so everyone else is going to be able to tell the story better than you if you don’t have these cameras.” For police, BWCs can significantly improve how evidence is collected by recording the visual and audio actions; the captured recordings can provide essential evidentiary documentation for investigations and court proceedings. The challenge now is to develop a cost-effective, chain of custody system to properly collect, store and access video footage. Onvia has a large database of procurement activity and spending plans from more than 80,000 U.S. entities. Recent bid & RFP opportunities in found in Onvia’s Project Centre reflect these rising concerns and private security firms should take note of how agencies are detailing the handling, storage and controlled access of BWC video footage – and the cost. Cloud storage Many agencies that have already purchased BWCs and rely on older infrastructure & servers now seek ways to efficiently streamline the process while keeping costs down Cloud-based solutions are becoming popular as a way to store large amounts of video. Cloud-based options can save on internal data storage costs and departmental staff. The right cloud based solution can also offer a high level of security, needed redundancy and natural disaster risk mitigation. Open bids found in Onvia’s Project Centre include specific requests for cloud-based solutions as well bids that will accept proposals for cloud or locally hosted systems. One example is the City of Hoover in Alabama that is looking specifically for a cloud-based storage solution with chain of custody tracking and auditability. The bid issued in April 2015 is for BWCs, an evidence transfer module and a secure hosted cloud-based evidence data management and storage services. Considerations and specifications for body camera video footage: See larger image Leading vendors and solutions Recently awarded contracts include BWCs and storage solutions. In one example the City of Tampa in Florida awarded a one-year contract in January 2015 with four possible extensions worth $83,845 to TASER International, Inc. to provide an integrated BWC and digital evidence management system including 60 TASER Axon Flex BWCs and Evidence.Com online storage services to store, manage, retrieve and share the captured digital video. Many agencies that have already purchased BWCs and rely on older infrastructure & servers now seek ways to efficiently streamline the process while keeping costs down. Agencies and private firms that hire security guards and services with BWC requirements may begin to seek the same efficiencies in regards to security guard footage. Some BWC manufacturers provide add-on software and services to provide an “all-in-one” storage solution. For example, TASER provides digital evidence management software (DEMS) and storage; Digital Alley provides software solutions and a cloud storage option; Wolfcom and L3 Mobile-Vision Inc. provide proprietary digital evidence management. Others vendors form partnerships like VIEVU with Microsoft Azure Cloud and encourage buyers of VIEVU BWCs to upgrade to Azure. Vendors like QueTel Corporation and VeriPic (also a partner with VIEVU) specialise in offering evidence management and storage support, not the cameras. Beyond the initial purchase of BWCs, choosing the right software management and data storage solution are extremely important considerations Example of multi-vendor BWC and DEMS implementations include: The City of Bellevue in Washington: Has VIEVU BWCs, awarded QueTel $182,885 in February 2015 for hardware, software, consulting, configuration and programming services for the installation of a physical and digital evidence management system. The City of Modesto in California: Has Taser BWCs, awarded VeriPic with a one-year contract ending in April 2015 that included a $5,874.88 purchase order for web-based project management, core server software and DEMS. Looking ahead to the future As agencies plan for future purchases for police officers and other security guards, specifications for cost-effective software management and secure storage will be considered. Onvia’s Spending Forecast Center provides access to capital improvement plans & agency budgets and reveal examples of how agencies plan to allocate funds including: The City of Santa Rosa in California: FY 2014-15 Operations & Maintenance Budget includes $335,715 to purchase BWCs and storage solution for the increasing amount of digital evidence the department collects and stores. City of Dubuque in Mississippi: Recommended FY 2016-2020 Capital Improvement Program includes $60,318 for the cameras and video storage. The City Manager writes that BWCs provide objective documentation, aid in accountability and mitigate liability. The importance of police officers wearing BWCs seems to increase daily. Contractors will want to follow the procurement trends in law enforcement as agencies and private security firms seek to utilise BWCs anywhere security is required. Onvia confirms that there is an increasing number of opportunities for vendors of BWCs and the related services and solutions: Beyond the initial purchase of BWCs, choosing the right software management and data storage solution are extremely important considerations.

I speculated earlier about an anticipated spike in demand for body worn cameras in response to the highly publicised shooting incident in Ferguson, Mo., last August. An analysis of a database of procurement activity and spending plans from more than 80,000 government entities in the United States confirms the continuing impact the shooting is having on the demand for body worn cameras. Reflecting what might be called the “Ferguson effect,” government data firm Onvia reports there were almost six times as many purchase orders issued for body worn cameras and related services in 2014 compared to 2013 – 3,400 purchase orders in 2014 compared to only 533 the year before. Three manufacturers – Taser International, Digital Ally and VIEVU Inc. – are dominating the market, while vendors like Pro-Vision Video, Wolfcom and Safety Vision are also making strides. There are many examples of local governments and police departments embracing body worn cameras. From Livermore and Pasadena, Calif., to Cleveland, Ohio, to Milton, Ga., and hundreds of other localities, local governments are buying body worn cameras to equip their police forces. Body worn cameras are still in their early days, relatively speaking, and many local governments have concerns about the cameras’ effectiveness, privacy implications, poor battery life, video storage and even whether officers will remember to turn them own. Onvia says agencies address such concerns in their requests for proposals (RFPs), and many expect samples and/or demonstrations of the body worn cameras during the bidding process. “When working properly, wearing cameras is associated with a dramatic reduction in use of force and complaints against officers,” Kelsey Voss, Onvia senior marketing manager, writes in a blog. “The increasing importance to have full transparency of police interactions with citizens aims to mitigate the enormous problem of questionable accountability on both sides,” Voss adds. In December, President Obama proposed allocation of more than $75 million in federal funds for body worn cameras. Voss says the first full scientific study conducted by the University of Cambridge’s Institute of Criminology concluded that body worn cameras decrease police use of force. They are also reported to reduce false accusations and reduce litigation costs. It’s a growing opportunity that seems likely to attract the attention of the camera manufacturers that already supply equipment to our market. Also, body worn cameras represent a fast-growing new source of video and a concomitant challenge to manage that video optimally in the context of an integrated system useful for investigations. The impact of the “Ferguson effect” on our market is just getting started.