VIVOTEK - Experts & Thought Leaders

A maritime nation since antiquity, today Greece is one of the centres of the world shipping industry. At over 250 billion euros annually, shipping accounts for more than six percent of the country’s GDP and employs nearly three-hundred thousand people. In an industry of this immense scale, onboard security is a primary concern. The challenge: to install a shipside surveillance system able to withstand all weather conditions at sea. Seaborne surveillance systems The demands on a seaborne surveillance system for today’s shipping industry are as complex as they are challenging. Technet Informatics needed a system that could help ensure crew safety and security, continuously monitor a vessel’s condition, ensure that proper procedures were being followed at all times, guarantee live monitoring of vessel alarm and loading procedures, and provide evidence in the event of emergencies, accidents, or piracy incidents. Of particular difficulty was the need for a camera to be installed above the main engine, where extreme heat and steam would destroy most camera systems. The Solution: VIVOTEK collaborates with Technet Informatics, Ltd. to develop a robust shipboard system. Shipboard safety and security A bulk vessel is a challenging environment in which to install a surveillance system. The construction of such vessels makes complete coverage difficult and working conditions can be severe. Any number of issues can impact system operations, whether onboard or due to salt air and weather conditions. Despite these challenges, shipboard safety and security are of paramount importance, and the utilisation of advanced technology is vital to ensure that correct procedures are being followed and that a safe working environment is maintained, as well as to provide evidence in the event of any accident or incident. The demands on a seaborne surveillance system for today’s shipping industry are as complex as they are challenging" Facing this challenge, a bulk vessel in Greece recently installed a complete shipboard system of IP-based security cameras in order to monitor the safety and adherence to procedure of onboard employees, as well as to secure the cargo. The security system had to be robust enough to work reliably over the course of months spent at sea. Technet Informatics has been working in information and communications technologies since 2010 in conjunction with software developers and hardware distributors from around the globe. For this job, completed in February 2017, they turned to VIVOTEK, a leader in surveillance solutions, to take advantage of VIVOTEK’s deep experience and broad range of camera types and to fulfil their need for specialised models to deal with a variety of shipboard conditions. VIVOTEK fisheye cameras Chief among these was VIVOTEK’s FE8181V fisheye camera with hard casing, installed above the main engine. Also included were two IP9171-HP and two IP8162 Full HD fixed network cameras for exterior views, an FE8181 on the bridge, and six high-performance, low-profile FE8180s to monitor the decks, all linked together by two ND8422P sixteen-channel embedded plug-and-play network video recorders in the ship’s office for easy monitoring. VIVOTEK’s FE8181V is the latest fisheye fixed dome network camera from VIVOTEK. It features a detailed 5-Megapixel resolution sensor which produces superb image quality. Equipped with a fisheye lens, this camera is ideal for placement above the main engine because it is encased in a weatherproof, IP66-rated housing, and is further strengthened by the adoption of a rugged, IK10-design housing, enabling it to handle a wide range of operating temperatures and rendering it both weather- and vandal-proof. The FE8181V true day/night camera features a removable IR-cut filter, maintains clear images 24 hours a day with built-in IR LEDs enabling the camera to provide uniform 360° surround illumination for clear and bright viewing at up to 10 metres, even in completely dark environments. A single FE8180 can easily do the job of three to four standard CCTV cameras" VIVOTEK’s FE8180, a tiny fisheye camera, is not only extremely low-profile, with a diameter of only 90mm, but is also able to be mounted directly on the wall to capture 180° panoramic views, or on the ceiling for a 360° surround view, with zero blind-spots. A single FE8180 can easily do the job of three to four standard CCTV cameras, dramatically reducing costs while blending in with any interior or exterior. It was an ideal solution for the wide-open spaces of a ship’s decks – seeing everything, but remaining unobtrusive. VIVOTEK ND8422P Network Video Recorder Because of the large number and wide variety of cameras used in and around the ship, two ND8422P sixteen-channel NVRs were installed. The plug-and-play functionality of these NVRs frees security staff to concentrate on their jobs, not installation or maintenance, and allows them to monitor ship conditions on-the-go via their EZConnect Mobile APP. With two NVRs installed for a total of seventeen cameras, the ship’s operators will be able to readily upgrade their system at any point in the future. In sum, the combination of simplicity of design, intelligent technology, and rugged protection from all elements makes VIVOTEK’s surveillance systems the only choice for the most demanding conditions on earth, or at sea.

VIVOTEK (3454-TW), the pioneering security solution provider, celebrates its 25th anniversary by reaffirming its commitment to pioneering AI and cloud-based technologies. At ISC West—the largest international security technology expo in the western United States—VIVOTEK introduced the latest innovations in its cloud-based VORTEX platform and premiered a commemorative video marking 25 years of global impact. Smarter security with AI-powered search One of the key highlights at ISC West was the unveiling of AI-Hub, the newest addition to VORTEX One of the key highlights at ISC West was the unveiling of AI-Hub, the newest addition to VORTEX. This centralised platform integrates a suite of AI functions—Deep Search, Event Insight, Re-Search, and Case Vault—into a seamless user interface. Designed to simplify operations and improve response time, the AI-Hub enables users to swiftly identify incidents, track individuals or vehicles, and generate comprehensive event reports. VIVOTEK at user-centric AI innovation At the core of AI-Hub lies its Search by Text function, powered by a cutting-edge Vision-Language Model (VLM). This technology enables users to conduct video searches using natural, everyday language, eliminating the need for complex filtering or manual review.  By linking video content with descriptive text input, VIVOTEK has created a more intuitive, accessible way to interact with surveillance data. The feature captured strong interest from both attendees and media during the expo, positioning VIVOTEK at the forefront of user-centric AI innovation. 25 years of innovation: From lab to global impact VIVOTEK premiered a point-of-view video titled, Journey Through the Lens To mark its 25th anniversary, VIVOTEK premiered a point-of-view video titled, Journey Through the Lens, which traces the company’s evolution from a small research team at National Taiwan University to a globally recognised brand in IP surveillance. The film revisits pivotal moments in VIVOTEK’s history, including its instrumental role in the dramatic 2010 Chilean mine rescue, where its technology helped locate and rescue 33 trapped miners. VIVOTEK reaffirms its mission The video also highlights the brand’s ongoing pursuit of innovation through AI and cloud technologies.  Looking toward the next 25 years, VIVOTEK reaffirms its mission: to work hand-in-hand with global partners and employees to create a smarter, safer, and more connected world.

As Taiwan's security industry continues to evolve with technological advancements and increased diversification, various vertical markets are poised for significant growth. Secutech, scheduled for 7–9 May 2025 at the Taipei Nangang Exhibition Centre, aims to capitalise on this burgeoning demand. Around 400 international and local exhibitors are set to showcase the latest technologies and solutions across six zones and pavilions at the fair, which serves as a vital platform to connect security and fire safety suppliers with key industry players in Taiwan. Demand for upgrading equipment and systems AIoT landscape is reshaping mixed industries and driving an increasing demand for upgrading kit Recent reports indicate that Taiwan's security market is projected to compound at an annual rate of 6.6%, reaching an estimated USD 119.9 million by 2029.  At the same time, the artificial intelligence of things (AIoT) landscape is reshaping various industries and driving an increasing demand for upgrading equipment and systems aimed at improving fire and safety efficiency. Affected settings include hospitals, industrial sites, parking facilities, old buildings, factories, shopping malls, and energy storage facilities. Security and fire safety equipment Exhibitors at Secutech 2025 will be integral to this wave of advanced technology, showcasing the integration of 5G, AI, and IoT in security and fire safety equipment for real-time monitoring, predictive analytics, and automated responses, ensuring higher efficiency and safety across multiple industries. The 26th edition will welcome prominent international brands in the global security landscape, including NetworkOptix, Panasonic, Blazecut Group, and Mabu Valley Outdoor Ltd. Key local exhibitors With Taiwan's longstanding reputation as one of Asia-Pacific’s technological hubs and its expanding influence in high-tech industries, major Taiwanese manufacturers are pivotal players in the global security manufacturing space. At the show, key local exhibitors will feature their advanced technology, including: TDV - Triple Domain Vision Co Ltd will showcase advanced front-end intelligent video analytics to enhance surveillance effectiveness and operational efficiencies. Avadesign Technology Co Ltd will display a comprehensive suite of security monitoring and management services, focusing on IP video intercom and house automation solutions. Formosa Plastics Corporation is set to modernise information chains and applications with smart workplace safety management platforms, facial recognition access controls, electronic fence detection technologies, and security monitoring dashboards. Himax Technologies Ltd will exhibit cutting-edge image processing technologies tailored for security applications, including CMOS sensors, wafer-level optics for AR devices, 3D sensing technologies, and ultralow-power AI image sensing technologies. Vivotek will showcase a range of IP surveillance products and solutions driven by advanced AI algorithms, supported by a one-stop monitoring cloud platform. Marson Technology will present high-quality barcode scanning equipment along with complete OEM/ODM services. Exploring key industry trends for diverse applications  This year’s show will feature six zones and pavilions, where key manufacturers will showcase their innovative solutions, aiming to capture critical trends across various vertical industries. These areas create a comprehensive environment for exploring cross-sector sourcing and collaboration opportunities: AI Innovation Application Zone (Transportation / Logistics / Retail) SmartHome and Building Pavilion Security and AIoT Smart Security Pavilion Smart Factory, Industrial Safety and Sanitation Application Pavilion Innovative Fire Prevention and Protection Technology Application Pavilion ESG Total Solution Pavilion Adoption of AIoT drives information security innovations Taiwan’s emphasis on data security grows increasingly critical, evidenced by calls to enrich digital security As AIoT evolves alongside the security market, Taiwan’s emphasis on information security grows increasingly critical, evidenced by government calls to enhance digital security and recent information security sector growth forecasts. The upcoming show will also showcase innovative information security technologies from renowned exhibitors, including InfoKeyVault Technology and Infineon Technologies Taiwan, aiming to advance solutions that address emerging threats and enhance data protection across smart manufacturing, smart home technology, and healthcare industries. Secutech sharing insights for fairgoers In this landscape, Secutech serves as an essential platform, facilitating business connections and sharing insights for fairgoers to stay ahead in a dynamic market. Secutech is organised by Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd – Taiwan Branch and is part of a global network of Safety, Security, and Fire trade fairs. 

GSX 2022 this week in Atlanta highlights the changing role of security in the enterprise. The role of the security director increasingly will encompass facets of cybersecurity as well as physical security. Transitioning to an operation that incorporates both disciplines requires a workforce that embraces education and building new skills. Education and the opportunity to build new skills are evident everywhere at GSX, including in the hundreds of education sessions and also in the knowledge shared on the show floor in the exhibit hall. Risk-based decisions “I really just do physical security.” That used to be a common phrase in the industry, but no more. In addition to ‘upskilling,’ security practitioners also need to speak the language of business and to insert the concepts of security into that language. Fast changes in security are challenging today’s professionals to keep up. The GSX education sessions seek to meet the need. Embracing ESRM includes a complete change in the thinking and approach to security Among the topics at the GSX conference is ESRM (Enterprise Security Risk Management), a security approach that focuses on risk-based decisions and partnerships with asset owners. It’s an approach that requires a holistic view of security risk. Embracing ESRM includes a complete change in the thinking and approach to security. Rather than seeking ‘approval’ for security decisions, security professionals identify risks and possible mitigation strategies and present them to management. Shaping access control Activity in the exhibit hall was brisk on the first day, which was heartening to those who attended a vastly downsized show last year in Orlando. At this show, there is even carpeting. Trends lead the lively discussions at GSX. In a presentation on the show floor Monday, manufacturer Brivo shared top trends that are shaping access control. The trends include: Hybrid work is here to stay. Some 60% of respondents to a Brivo survey said access control is extremely or very important to the hybrid work model. Providing immense value to an organisation, access data helps to manage occupancy and is part of the larger discussion of facility utilisation. Data analytics is ‘mission critical.’ Combining data from multiple sources, including access control, becomes powerful when leveraged using artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning tools. Applications such as anomaly detection help companies improve operations. Some 65% of respondents to the Brivo survey say integrating access control with other technologies is an important trend. Keeping people healthy Other trends identified by Brivo include mobile credentialing and security centralisation (cloud) Other trends identified by Brivo include mobile credentialing and security centralisation (cloud). Among other exhibitors, Johnson Controls is focusing in their booth on solutions, not products, including the convergence of physical security into the digital space. The OpenBlue system is a digital platform that incorporates security, HVAC, fire/life safety, and building operations in a single platform that is the ‘nerve center’ of an organisation. Increasingly, the areas ‘security’ is responsible for are expanding. During the COVID pandemic, for example, security had to embrace a role in keeping people healthy (as well as safe). The challenges of the pandemic accelerated the OpenBlue portfolio as more security professionals expanded their role. Security operations centre “Moving into the digital space, and digitising what used to be a security operations center, enables us to increase automation and enable security operations to respond more quickly,” said Kenneth Poole, Johnson Controls’ Vice President, National Accounts, North America Building Solutions. Security directors are responsible for things they have never been responsible for before" “Surprisingly a lot of customers are being forced into new areas,” Poole added. “Security directors are responsible for things they have never been responsible for before.” Poole says he is encouraged by the willingness of ‘old school’ security directors to embrace the new reality. Azena’s approach to supplying edge-based camera applications on an ‘app store’ is gaining momentum. Several new applications are being announced at GSX, among the 110 apps on the Azena app store. Apps can be loaded onto Azena-enabled cameras manufactured by Bosch, Hanwha, Vivotek, BST, TopView, and Ability. Video management system Azena has simplified the integration of its app solutions, enabling developers to make only slight changes to an app and ensure it is compatible with the largest video management system (VMS) platforms, including Milestone, Genetec, and NX Witness. A wizard on the camera enables simplified mapping of data analytics to events in a VMS system. New applications in the Azena app store include video sensors to prevent ‘bed fall’ accidents in hospitals and healthcare facilities, incidents that can cost $35,000 on average and account for $34 billion in the United States in a year. The app identifies video signs of an imminent bed fall, such as excessive movement in bed. The analytics run inside the camera and the video feed doesn’t leave the device, so there are no privacy concerns. An Azena app is installed in a camera mounted on ‘Yellow,’ the ‘robot dog’ manufactured by Boston Dynamics Effectiveness of metal detectors Another new application is gun detection that can augment the effectiveness of metal detectors. Also, an Azena app is installed in a camera mounted on ‘Yellow,’ the ‘robot dog’ manufactured by Boston Dynamics and configured for security applications by Prosegur. An Azena app is installed in a Vivotek AI box on the back of the dog; it can detect fire, smoke, and moved luggage. Azena apps for flare and leak detection are becoming more popular in the oil and gas industries, and there are camera apps that can monitor tank levels. Cisco Meraki is introducing two new camera models at GSX, with 4K and 4MP options, a terabyte of storage for 4K, and 256Gb of storage for 4MP. Air quality sensors The cameras will allow most customers to record 30 to 90 days of video in the camera at the edge The cameras will allow most customers to record 30 to 90 days of video in the camera at the edge. Also at the show, they introduced a push button and air quality sensors that are easy to incorporate into a Cisco Meraki application. Cisco Meraki also offers a dashboard that is integrated with the rest of the product portfolio to enable users to view devices on the same interface and in the same ‘pane of glass.’ For physical security users, there is the Meraki Vision Portal, which enables physical security users to run a more effective investigation. Features include a floor plan view and the ability to switch among multiple cameras. Users can instantly search videos using ‘motion search’ to easily find an event in a video.

Technology is driving new opportunities in the security industry. Innovation trends include artificial intelligence (AI), edge-based systems, mobile systems, a greater focus on software, and efforts to simplify operation of security systems, even as capabilities become more complex. ISC West 2022 reflected these changing trends. “In addition to emphasising technology innovation, ISC West also reflected an industry that is resilient, dedicated and passionate,” said Mary Beth Shaughnessy, the Event Director of ISC Security Events. ISC West 2022 “Almost 12,000 dealers, installers, integrators, end users and consultants reconnected at ISC West 2022, and there were nearly 20,000 total industry professionals in attendance (including manufacturers),” adds Mary Beth Shaughnessy. The 550 exhibitors and brands on display reflected an industry that has come through the COVID-19 pandemic in better shape than ever, poised for even greater success in the years ahead. Turning video and access control into knowledge Deployment of AI to ‘watch video’ can inform users of what’s happening in real-time Motorola Solutions emphasized several themes that were heard repeatedly throughout the show. “One trend is fulfilling the need to turn video and access control into sources of knowledge, inside the enterprise,” said John Kedzierzski, Motorola Solutions’ Senior Vice President of Video Security and Access Control. Deployment of AI to ‘watch video’ can inform users of what’s happening in real-time, while monitoring access control yields the equivalent of an operating system inside a building. Using the Cloud offers consumer ease-of-use to systems The second trend listed by Motorola Solutions is working to bring the consumer ease-of-use experience into enterprise security solution applications. Professional security systems were previously complicated to buy, install, manage and upgrade. However, using the Cloud, even distributed enterprises can bring consumer ease-of-use to systems, from improving the out-of-box installation experience to boosting the ability to manage the system. Transition to ‘mobile first’ interfaces The third trend emphasised by Motorola Solutions is transition to ‘mobile first’ interfaces, reflecting the need for busy security executives to be on-the-go, but with full access to their systems, without being chained to their desks. Since the last springtime ISC West show in 2019, Motorola Solutions has grown rapidly, both organically and through acquisition of IndigoVision, Pelco, Openpath, Envysion, and Ava Security. Cloud-based Orchestrate system Integration is simple through a ‘drag-and-drop’ approach that doesn’t involve writing code In addition, the company is making it easier to integrate video and access control systems with Motorola’s radio systems, typically carried by security guards. The cloud-based Orchestrate system translates ‘events’ from access control and video, to trigger notifications on a mobile radio. Integration is simple through a ‘drag-and-drop’ approach that doesn’t involve writing code. Simplifying implementation of AI Artificial Intelligence (AI) has traditionally been associated with the use of large servers or even intelligence in the Cloud. Several exhibitors at ISC West helped to change that misconception. For example, Oosto offers a simpler and more economical approach. They supply edge appliances for AI. The purpose-built Vision AI appliance, a small box, puts intelligence at the ‘near edge’, by connecting to up to five cameras. Easy and dependable ‘failover’ ensures redundancy without a big investment, and the system can work with any IP camera, including an end user’s installed base of cameras. Oosto’s TCO (total cost of ownership) calculator Oosto’s TCO (total cost of ownership) calculator spells out how much a customer can save versus using a big server, including lower costs such and power and cooling. AI was probably the biggest buzzword at ISC West, but there was also emphasis on the practical results of applying AI to physical security. Artificial Intelligence (AI) - the biggest buzzword at ISC West I believe our purpose is to bring buzzwords, like Cloud and AI together in a way that is useful to end-users" “What surprises me (at the show) is that there is a lot of generic marketing of AI, but we are trying to step back from our analytics and look at applications that serve certain end-users,” said Jeff Corrall, Vice President - Product Management at March Networks, adding “As an industry, we are still at the stage of AI as a buzzword.” Jeff Corrall further said, “I believe our purpose is to bring buzzwords, like Cloud and AI together in a way that is useful to end-users. We have to live with the buzzwords, but what we really want is to apply them. That creates a stickiness with the end-user — when high technology is making a difference.” March Networks Labs address specific end-user problems and then apply their systems to provide a solution. Jeff Corrall adds, “A lot of AI is responding to what the customer is asking for, and we are stepping back and making sure the end-user will use it on a consistent basis.” ‘Edge versus cloud’ was a common theme at ISC West Edge versus Cloud ‘Edge versus cloud’ was a common theme at ISC West, pondering where in a system the ‘intelligence’, such as AI and machine learning, as well as other functionality, should reside. Among the companies addressing the quandary was Axis Communications, which focused on the issue using a racing theme at their presentation to the industry press. The winner of the ‘race?’ - The combination of both approaches working together as a team, of course. AXIS Speed Monitor on exhibit One introduction at the show was the AXIS Speed Monitor, a speed detection app available using ACAP Axis Communications also highlighted the deep learning analytics of the ARPEC 8 camera chip (introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic), which will be deployed across their camera line. One introduction at the show was the AXIS Speed Monitor, a speed detection app available using ACAP (Axis Camera Application Platform), the capability to load ‘apps’ onto camera chips at the edge. They also introduced the D4100-E Network strobe siren (a smart edge device), the Audio Manager Pro (a cloud-based software system enabling zoning and callouts for specific areas in a building), the W101 body worn cameras with GPS capabilities, and a Barcode Reader for doorstop applications (another ACAP app). ‘App Store’ approach to expanding applications Azena is at the centre of expanding applications at the edge, promoting new applications through an ‘App Store’ approach that sells software apps that can be loaded onto cameras that are equipped with Azena’s operating system. In the last couple of years, the company (formerly known as Security and Safety Things) has expanded its offerings. There are currently 108 apps in the store from 30 to 40 app developers. There are 14 camera models (from six manufacturers) that are commercially available and run their operating system. The newest camera is a fisheye model from Vivotek. “What we have seen is that a lot of the use cases are pretty unique,” said Fabio Marti, Vice President - Marketing for Azena. Two examples are an application that monitors a flame to ensure it is burning cleanly (no smoke). Another system monitors nets covering fish farms to avoid birds getting tangled up in the nets. Fabio Marti said “A challenge is to find new business avenues for integrators. Everybody is not eager to look beyond their comfort zone.” Focusing on software to ensure user experience Software systems are one of the major focal points for innovation in security systems Software systems are one of the major focal points for innovation in security systems and Verkada is focusing on how software innovation can improve systems. “For decades, innovation was on the hardware front,” said Filip Kaliszan, Verkada’s Founder and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), adding “We saw an opportunity for more innovation on the software side. The customer experience revolves around software.” Ensuring an end-to-end experience “We want to guarantee an end-to-end experience,” adds Filip Kaliszan. As a new company with a ‘hybrid cloud’ approach, Verkada focused on appealing to end users to convince them of the value proposition. Once an end user was convinced, Verkada brought in an integrator partner to deliver the solution. In effect, Verkada finds demand and brings that demand to the integrator. Software-centric operation of a modern building Verkada is broadly focused on ‘software-centric operation of a modern building.’ After starting out in video, Verkada has since expanded into systems for access control, alarm systems, and other categories. They use a combination of third-party hardware and equipment that is custom designed to work seamlessly with their software systems. Verkada’s end goal is to put the various systems together into a platform. They will continue building each product category, which will eventually be unified into ‘the operating system for the building of the future.’

Since 2018, an open platform has been developing to enable the security and safety industry to work together smoothly across brands and systems to improve user experience and solutions. Pioneering the effort has been the Open Security & Safety Alliance (OSSA®). Delivering video-sensing solutions such as cameras and AI boxes, the open ecosystem is a reality. We are turning to OSSA President Johan Jubbega and OSSA Strategy Committee Chair Steve Ma for a progress update. Why is now the perfect time to tap into this newly established open ecosystem? How are members working together to address important trends now and on the horizon? The discussion follows. Solving industry problems Q: How and why are you involved with OSSA? Steve Ma: Our thinking as an industry has evolved, and we now realise that open designs and integrations are necessary in order to flourish and succeed in the security and safety space – and beyond, as our technologies often find application in neighbouring domains. My colleagues at VIVOTEK and I strive to be more collaborative, and therefore also more creative and innovative to be ready for the future. OSSA is the ideal forum. Coming together in this manner helps organisations avoid reinventing the wheel It helps to gather with other international companies that are committed to the same cause. As chairman of OSSA’s Strategy Committee, I am on the forefront of where we want to collaborate and standardise, and in turn where we prefer to leave room for individual diversification components. Coming together in this manner helps organisations avoid reinventing the wheel and allows us to effectively solve real industry problems with agility and intelligence. Eventually, I expect that our efforts within OSSA will lead to faster innovations and further dissemination of technology. Johan Jubbega: Like Steve, I have been involved in OSSA from the beginning and witnessed the overwhelming willingness to collaborate in open ecosystems in our category. We are three years under way as an Alliance, and a lot of the hurdles have now been cleared. The most compelling result of overcoming those obstacles involves our OSSA specifications and agreements that collectively allow third-party video (analytics) applications to run on agnostic brands of video-sensing devices. OSSA facilitates cooperation on many levels, and it’s important to me as president that our group remains approachable and accessible to anyone who shares in this vision of an open, data-driven ecosystem. We remind everyone the door is open, and there’s a role for stakeholders and large or small innovators to get involved at whatever effort and member level they wish. Interoperable analytics apps Q: Can you share thoughts on a couple of industry trends for 2022 and beyond? Ma: Next-level dissemination and greater accessibility of technology is a big trend that will impact our security and safety landscape. Our industry will be able to facilitate and make better use of the incredibly rich data flows produced by devices and applications already deployed. Trust and clever data management are two important factors woven in here as we progress together into a new frontier of sharing data across apps, solutions, brands, borders, and continents. Next-level dissemination and greater accessibility of technology is a big trend that will impact our security In this type of collaboration, there are a lot of moving parts, and it requires input from the right stakeholders plus buy-in and adoption from the market. A good example of this is OSSA working on a series of data APIs: To prevent tight-coupling of (analytics) applications, which is at odds with the Alliance's openness, OSSA is working on a set of generic (vendor-independent) Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) for a uniform yet abstracted representation of objects of interest. The goal is not just to identify ‘things’ by means of video analytics, but instead to aggregate this information from various devices to enable the descriptive relationships between those ‘things.’ The idea is to connect the dots between what, for example, a camera senses on the edge of a parking lot and what another camera captures inside or elsewhere using different but interoperable analytics apps and hardware. This will bring newfound knowledge around probabilities for safety, security, and beyond. Jubbega: Yes, reaching new heights around what’s seen versus what’s sensed is going to be an amazing area we all break into together. The possibilities will be astounding of what we can hopefully soon be interpreting with all this data. IoT is certainly essential to this process, and thus another trend OSSA members are focused on is extending our open approach to adjacent areas across security, safety, and out into the broader IoT. This involves tapping into other domains so next-level concepts such as Digital Twins (the real-time digital counterpart of a physical object or process) can be facilitated more easily. Video-sensing devices Another working group within OSSA is focused this year on creating a test methodology Q: How do these trends/resolutions tie back into the OSSA work groups’ focus for 2022? Ma: As far as making stronger associations between data points, our members are working on a model that allows for this type of knowledge integration. The OSSA Data API aims to enable uniform consumption and the production of vast amounts of useful data attained by video-sensing devices. As mentioned, trust will be critical as we start to rely more and more on information from other hardware and software sources. Another working group within OSSA is focused this year on creating a test methodology based on conformance specifications that serve as inputs for a forthcoming hardware Certification Model. This effort will help guide the compatibility of OSSA standards to ensure quality and uniformity across Alliance outputs. Finally, as Johan alluded to, we see in the new world of IoT that innovation tends to spill over and bring benefits to nearby areas. We have the Beyond Video IP workgroup that’s focused on connecting our way of thinking to other domains in the security and safety space. Agnostic operating system Q: Why is now the time to get involved in the Open Security & Safely Alliance and the industry’s evolving Open Ecosystem? Jubbega: The open platform principle we were founded on is transitioning from philosophy to real solutions that are now available to the market. We started by delivering a Technology Stack for video-sensing devices, paired with the first OSSA technology specifications that collectively enable third-party software and analytics to run agnostically on cameras that adhere to OSSA specifications. An open Alliance like OSSA combined with a platform business model is the perfect solution to elevate us all OSSA member company Azena – in parallel – created a corresponding and agnostic operating system associated with our industry’s biggest Analytics App Store. To date, there are 15-plus ‘Driven by OSSA’ hardware products from members that adhere to OSSA specifications, and users can mix and match those with 100-plus software apps that are enabled by OSSA specifications. So, a lot has already been taken care of, and that makes it an ideal time to get involved in the Alliance to further guide the trajectory of our future together. Ma: I totally agree. Now is the right time because the platform (both the collaboration framework and technology) is finally here and ready for use. We have all been waiting for this reality to arrive. Now, artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms can align and start to solve real industry problems exponentially by working collaboratively inside of, for instance, camera systems and AI boxes. An open Alliance like OSSA combined with a platform business model is the perfect solution to elevate us all. The market is going to move fast. And through OSSA and its specifications, we are ready to move with it. New open ecosystem Looking ahead to ISC West: Many OSSA spokespeople and member organisations will be at ISC West 2022, March 23-25. Johan Jubbega will be at the Bosch Building Technologies Booth #11053 and Steve Ma will be at the VIVOTEK Booth #22015. Both companies, and other member organisations as well, will have ‘Driven by OSSA’ video-sensing products on display. Visitors are invited to stop by to talk about this new open ecosystem and how to join OSSA to cross-collaborate and bring about good change for the industry.