Central Monitoring

In the spirit of shared learning and growth, Gallagher Security is calling all security professionals and users to add their voices to an industry-wide survey designed to capture a snapshot of this transformative period. This collaborative research initiative seeks to gather global insights that will culminate in a comprehensive trends report designed to benefit every corner of the global security industry.  Security Industry Trends Report “This project is rooted in one of our core values: the belief that sharing knowledge freely is a powerful catalyst for growth and progress,” says Mark Junge, Chief Executive at Gallagher Security. “Gallagher’s annual Security Industry Trends Report serves as an embodiment of those values. Our industry has been in transition these past few years, which always brings a degree of uncertainty that makes it difficult to plan. Our goal with this survey and report is to hold a mirror up to our industry peers and provide a tool that helps us navigate the shifting landscape together.”  Why participation matters  Gallagher Security’s trends survey is more than just a research project – it's a call to action Gallagher Security’s trends survey is more than just a research project – it's a call to action for every security professional to share their voice and contribute to a collective understanding of how this transformation is playing out on a global scale. “Your input is instrumental in helping us identify the factors making the biggest impact on the future of security,” says Mark. “It's a way for us to come together as an industry and share the observations and challenges affecting us all.”  Survey topics The survey covers a range of topics, including:  Organisations’ pioneering security goals  Challenges impacting budgets and upgrades  How organisations rank integrations and features  Strategies around cybersecurity and compliance  Plans for adopting Cloud solutions  Organisations’ current stance on the use of AI  A report for the entire industry  The 2025 Security Industry Trends Report, which will be based on the data gathered from this survey The 2025 Security Industry Trends Report, which will be based on the data gathered from this survey, is intended to be a resource for all stakeholders in the global security industry to inform decision-making, strategic planning, and innovation. From installers to IT professionals and everyone in between, perspectives across regions, channels, and industries are welcome to add their voice and capture a snapshot of the year ahead.  How to participate  Participating in the survey is straightforward, anonymous, and will take less than 10 minutes to complete.

AMG Systems, the pioneer in NDAA and TAA-approved, highly robust connectivity and transmission solutions for IP Video, has launched its latest UK-designed and built Power over Ethernet (PoE) injector range, named the AMG150 and AMG155 series. The AMG150/155 series of PoE injectors has been designed to deliver Power over Ethernet from 15 right up to 90 watts, transmitting power to edge devices via 1Gb, 2.5Gb, 5Gb, right up to 10Gb Ethernet network connections. In this way, the AMG150/155 series supports even the most energy-intensive, professional-grade network cameras on the market. AMG150/155 series’ IP40-rated housing The new series of PoE injectors comes fitted with lightning surge protection of up to 20 kA current surges The AMG150/155 series has been built to withstand the very toughest of operating conditions - working reliably at extreme temperatures ranging from −40°C up to +75°C. This is only possible because the AMG150/155 series’ IP40-rated housing is built using dual 5.2mm anodised machined aluminium heatsink side panels, with additional 2mm fins for improved heat dissipation. AMG150/155 series also has a unique IEC bracket design to ensure that the AC mains supply does not shake loose in high-vibration conditions. The new series of PoE injectors comes fitted with lightning surge protection of up to 20 kA current surges. These features together make the products ideal for providing robust, yet cost-effective power to defence, utilities, transport and critical national infrastructure surveillance installations. AMG155 models The products offer a Mean Time Between Failure (MTBF) of 300,000 hours and a full Lifetime Warranty. Competitor products typically offer MTBF of 50,000 hours or less and a maximum of five years warranty. AMG Systems continues to listen to installers and has ensured that AMG150/155 can be fitted with either an easy DIN rail clip system or a magnetic option for mounting. The AMG155 models also position all the connections and status LEDs in front of the user for easy installation and maintenance. IEEE 802.3bt compliant high power PoE Steve Clarke, Managing Director of AMG Systems, said, "We designed the AMG150/155 Series to provide a competitive, cost-effective, designed in the USA/UK, manufactured in the UK (NDAA & TAA compliant) alternative to the mostly Asia-made, re-badged products currently available." He adds, "Incorporating a more installer-friendly form factor and fully integrated surge protection along with support for true IEEE 802.3bt compliant high power PoE, while being able to meet industry cost targets will make these products extremely attractive for many PoE-powered applications." Asia-sourced PoE injectors Tom Exley, Technical Director of AMG Systems, said: "The AMG150/155 series sets the quality standard. Our engineering team looked at what was currently available, identified weaknesses and engineered our product line to overcome those weaknesses." He adds, "Many competitors offer Asia-sourced PoE injectors. None are equal in terms of being industrially hardened and made in a ISO9001-certified facility and still being cost-effective. We believe in the quality and stand behind them with lifetime support. This injector opens dozens of applications that can now utilise PoE as the power source, and having a product made in the UK gives your network an added layer of security."

The Entrust Cybersecurity Institute released survey findings on the state of Zero Trust adoption and encryption in 2024. Entrust’s eighteenth annual study conducted by the Ponemon Institute reveals that the risk of a cyber breach is the number one global driver for Zero Trust strategy implementation.  Zero Trust security practice “With the rise of costly breaches and AI-generated deepfakes, synthetic identity fraud, ransomware gangs, and cyber warfare, the threat landscape is intensifying at an alarming rate," said Samantha Mabey, Director of Solutions Marketing at Entrust. “This means that implementing a Zero Trust security practice is an urgent business imperative and the security of organisations' and their customers’ data, networks, and identities depends on it.” 2024 State of Zero Trust & Encryption Study 41% of respondents prioritise security investments to reduce the risks of data breaches or other security incidents The 2024 State of Zero Trust & Encryption Study surveyed 4,052 IT and IT security practitioners across the U.S., UK, Canada, Germany, Australia and New Zealand, Japan, Singapore, and the Middle East. The survey shows that people are more motivated to invest in security to prevent data breaches, rather than just to follow regulations. While in the past, compliance was the main reason for security investments, 41% of respondents prioritise security investments to reduce the risks of data breaches or other security incidents. This marks a significant change in attitudes toward why organisations invest in security. Key findings  Rising rates of cyber breaches are driving Zero Trust adoption: Two-thirds of organisations list cyber-risk concerns as the most important drivers for implementing a Zero Trust strategy. The pattern is even more pronounced in the U.S., with 50% of organisations citing cyber breach risk and 29% reporting the expanding attack surface for a combined total of 79% Senior leadership support for Zero Trust is increasing, but skills and budget aren’t keeping pace: Despite 60% of organisations reporting significant senior leadership support for Zero Trust, a lack of skills and budget are still cited as the biggest roadblocks to implementing these frameworks, highlighting a discrepancy between support and resource allocation. Zero Trust adoption is exploding, but lagging in the West: While 62% of organisations have begun their own Zero Trust journey, only 48% of U.S. organisations have, raising a concern that Western entities know they have a problem but are unable to adopt Zero Trust, leaving them vulnerable to cyber threats. Good cyber hygiene alone can’t safeguard against all threats: 46% of respondents cited hackers exposing sensitive or confidential data as their top security concern, followed by system or process malfunctions and unmanaged certificates. For the first time in the past eight years, organisations did not rank employee mistakes as a top security threat. People, skills, and ownership remain painful hurdles for CISOs to achieve effective credential management: 50% of respondents identified a shortage of skilled personnel, 47% highlighted the absence of clear ownership, and 46% pointed to inadequate staffing as the primary reasons for the challenges associated with credential management.

BSRIA, the research and information membership body for the built environment, has appointed a new Chief Executive Officer, Lisa Ashworth, who is tasked with furthering BSRIA's impressive growth ambitions. Lisa Ashworth Ashworth joins BSRIA with a wealth of experience in pioneering technology-based data and information businesses. With an illustrious career marked by her tenure at organisations such as the Financial Times, PR Newswire, Frost and Sullivan, and Reevoo/Feefo, Ashworth brings a successful track record of growing businesses across diverse sectors. In addition to her extensive operational experience, she has a strong background in setting up and expanding businesses internationally. Lisa Ashworth takes up her position on the 1st of June 2024, following an induction period. Career in data, information, and research Chris Harty, Chairman, of BSRIA, says, "Lisa brings a wealth of experience and new energy. Not only has she spent her career in the data, information, and research arena, but her strong track record includes scaling commercial operations internationally. Her experience makes her an ideal pioneer for BSRIA as it embarks on its next phase of development." "Her leadership style is open, collaborative, and people-centric and aligns seamlessly with BSRIA's organisational ethos. Committed to fostering a cohesive and dynamic work environment, I am confident she is the perfect person to take BSRIA into its exciting new chapter." Sustainability agenda Lisa Ashworth, CEO, of BSRIA, says, "I'm excited to join a business that is already so pivotal to the industry it supports, but equally well positioned to grow further in the knowledge, data, and information market." "Data is a vital raw material for the sustainability agenda of the construction sector and will play a crucial role in closing the performance gap and creating better buildings."    Digitisation and decarbonisation goals "As the built environment gears toward a greener future, our resources will be foundational for helping organisations achieve their digitisation and decarbonisation goals, creating a practical pathway to Net Zero and beyond." "As BSRIA looks ahead to further innovation and expansion, I'm looking forward to working alongside our customer-focused, vibrant teams to advance our research ambitions and drive commercial growth." Testing, research, and consultancy services BSRIA is committed to maintaining its independent approach and authoritative reputation For nearly 70 years, BSRIA has provided registered testing, research, and consultancy services to the construction and building services industry. As a member-based association, BSRIA is committed to maintaining its independent approach and authoritative reputation. Construction and building services Employing over 160 professionals across its head office in Berkshire (UK), BSRIA North in Lancashire, regionally based construction compliance offices throughout the UK, and offices in France, China, and the USA, BSRIA's global presence underscores its commitment to serving stakeholders worldwide with research and best practice guidance. 2025 sees BSRIA celebrate its 70th anniversary, commemorating decades of delivering the highest-quality specialist services in construction and building services.

Digitalisation is reshaping the way individuals live and work. Buildings should be at the centre of this change, streamlining daily interactions with homes, offices, and other workplaces, moving into and around them seamlessly. Everyone who uses a site also needs confidence in its security and safety, not just its efficiency and usability.  Connected digital access In addition, connected digital access is a fundamental block in constructing more intelligent buildings. As analysts Omdia note, “access control equipment continues to play a crucial role in leading end users to consider a transition to interconnected smart building system architectures.” Future-oriented strategy Switching mechanical for digital access can help organisations of every size and type to work smarter, collaborate better Switching mechanical for digital access, then, can be essential to a future-oriented strategy. It can help organisations of every size and type to work smarter, collaborate better, and maximise the productivity of their existing assets. “The building has an increasingly digital future,” says David Moser, SVP and Head of Digital Access Solutions at ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions EMEIA. ”So it’s crucial for all kinds of organisations to make their access ready for what’s ahead.”  5 strategic factors impacting the switch to digital access​ But which major factors should be incorporated into the decision-making process for a switch to digital? The following five are critical to ensure an organisation lands on the best solution for them: Security Security is sometimes considered a given. But in a world of emerging and evolving physical security threats, it should never be taken for granted. Building users and managers need the reassurance of a secure access system to go about their working day productively and with peace of mind. As security converges, moving beyond traditional physical access and cyber ‘siloes’, the right digital access solution enables building management teams to define exactly who goes where, and when, across their site or sites. ​ Reliability The reliability of any digital solution has both financial and security implications. Robust hardware and secure software ensure that access solutions require minimal maintenance, for example. At the specification stage, purchasers should also inquire about third-party certifications, including for green building schemes, whether for digital locks, electronic door closing solutions, or access provision compliance at sensitive locations where additional national and supra-national regulations may apply. ​ Innovation Systems should embrace digital openness and customisability which in turn provide the flexibility Innovation in the choice of solution does not simply mean picking the access system with the widest range of features and functions. Choosing a digital solution manufacturer with a track record of innovation, however, gives organisations the confidence that their solution will always prepare them for what’s ahead – not just the ‘now’. Systems should embrace digital openness and customisability which in turn provide the flexibility that genuinely future-proofs access management.  Convenience Convenience is about much more than just small-scale savings in time and effort. When employees, contractors, and temporary visitors can come-and-go with ease, operations for building and security managers are streamlined. Digitalising access provides a concrete ROI that a business can turn into a competitive advantage. For this reason, the most recent Wireless Access Control Report found the #1 factor driving the switch to mobile digital access was convenience.   Sustainability Sustainability as an ethos should be embedded within any future-proof digital solution. Motives go beyond just altruism and corporate responsibility – though, of course, these are important. Incorporating sustainability into an access strategy can also directly benefit the bottom line. Both the business and the environment benefit from reducing power consumption by using innovations such as energy-harvesting technology, for example.   The benefits of a digital access solution   “At a new corporate headquarters for Canal+ near Paris, midsized Clockwise co-working spaces in the UK and northern Europe, and medical facilities in Dubai and Turkey, digitalisation of access has brought tangible everyday benefits,” adds David Moser. “There’s a proven digital solution suited to historic buildings, brand-new hotels, and education facilities of every size and type. Digital access comes with a real operations management ROI.”  Cloud infrastructure Cloud infrastructure enables remote management of users and access from one convenient location “At one Danish school, Vejle Friskole, digitalising access management reduced the time they were spending on it every week from 5 hours to just 5 minutes. The results can be instant… and quite dramatic!” Digitalising access instantly puts powerful tools in the hands of a building manager: Cloud infrastructure enables remote management of users and access from one convenient location; integrating intelligent sensors can help manage energy more effectively; credentials stored on a smartphone simplify and accelerate the process of issuing, amending and revoking access.   Digital access for offices, universities, hospitals, and much more  A vast range of digital functionality can be tailored to all kinds of applications. With real-time management, facility managers create audit trails or instantly change access rights for any door or user. In schools, real-time, online control enables rapid lockdown in an emergency. In hospitals, digital access shows who had access to drug stores or equipment.   Self-service kiosks At the Flint Hotel in Austria, digital access software integrates with self-service kiosks: Guests check in from home, enter the reception with a PIN, and receive their keycard at the kiosk. At Munich’s historic Hofbräuhaus, digital devices work out of sight, securing doors and managing access without damaging the heritage interior.  Wireless locks and mobile management Multi-residential housing in Barcelona, access apartments and common areas with a key stored securely Tenants at Becorp, multi-residential housing in Barcelona, access apartments and common areas with a key stored securely on their smartphone.  “Physical key management for any large development puts severe pressure on operational costs,” explains Becorp’s project engineer, Xavier Casals. “Choosing wireless locks and mobile management helps us to minimise them.”  Digital transition “ASSA ABLOY can help you digitalise and truly future-proof access at almost any kind of site or building,” adds David Moser. “Our vast range of innovative, reliable, convenient solutions showcase the value of the digital transition and can be tailored to meet individual business needs and goals.”   “We urge anyone thinking of making the switch from mechanical to digital access to speak to us first. We are happy to share our expertise to help you continue to thrive in a changing, digitalising world.” 

IPtelX, a pioneering provider of dedicated telecom solutions for the alarm and security industries, is pleased to announce the deployment of Dealer Branding for voice alarm calls. This innovative solution tackles a major pain point for alarm companies: unanswered calls to the contact list due to showing up as spam on wireless phones. This has been a serious problem for the industry. In the last few years, wireless companies have had the calls appear as spam on caller ID. Without being able to cancel an alarm, this has caused unneeded dispatches to PSAPs. The result has been more false dispatches, giving the industry a “black eye” and a bad reputation. New Dealer Branding technology IPtelX's Dealer Branding technology solves this problem by displaying the dealer’s name. Along with the name, the branding will also appear as “Alarm Emergency Call,” or a similar type of alarm message urging the user to answer. IPtelX's Dealer Branding technology solves this problem by displaying the dealer’s name Beyond displaying the dealer’s name, IPtelX is taking its new Dealer Branding to the next level in two more phases that will be coming soon. For the second phase, IPtelX will be providing its clients a significant advantage by going beyond what the other carriers can provide by also displaying the dealer logo. For the third phase, end users will also see the type of alarm (intrusion, fire, PERS, etc.). With this technology, end users receiving the call will have all the needed information to know that it is not a spam call. Innovative service works “We are committed to staying ahead of the curve and providing our clients with the latest communication technologies,” says Cliff Dice, Senior Software Engineer at IPtelX. “Dealer Branding gives our clients a clear advantage, which is why IPtelX is the pioneering choice in the industry for alarm company phone services in North America.” This innovative service works seamlessly with any PBX system and any monitoring station. As a North American carrier, IPtelX offers Dealer Branding across its entire footprint, encompassing all central offices in Canada and the USA.

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. 

Changing customer needs can make specifying an alarm system that will continue to deliver in the long term a challenge. However, the latest modular alarm solutions provide the opportunity to build a more individualised system from the outset, as well as offering the ability to up-scale in the future without causing disruption. Martin Wilson, North EMEA Regional Director at Resideo, looks at how alarm specialists can use this style of solution to both benefit customers and build their own business opportunities. Holistic sense of home security In a survey of 1,000 homeowners undertaken by Resideo, the results revealed that, although deterring burglary was still a top priority, consumers were moving to a more holistic sense of home security, wanting to bring convenience, and property and life safety, into the mix. An alarm system no longer needs to function on one level, alerting only to a break-in taking place Indeed, an alarm system no longer needs to function on one level, alerting only to a break-in taking place. The latest modular alarm systems offer the flexibility to create a scalable security and life safety platform for homes and small businesses, as well as giving installers the ability to suggest future update options that can be added as and when budget or requirement allows.  Valuable up-scales Finding an alarm that can be scaled over time has the obvious business benefit of ensuring it is easy to revisit and add to as customers naturally expand their existing security. With many modular designs connected via WiFi, this not only means installers can opt for the right mix of sensor options from the get-go but also that any additions can be connected to the panel and system with ease. Many control hubs have winning features in their own right. The ProSeries security panel by Resideo, for instance, has an intuitive touchscreen, easy-to-read, full-colour display to reduce false alarms, plus a built-in camera, speaker and microphone, intuitive icons and even five-day weather alerts. The ProSeries security panel by Resideo has an intuitive touchscreen Natural up-scale opportunities For instance, for those in a property prone to flooding, a flood sensor may be a worthwhile addition For the installer, it has a plug-in power connection, trouble-shooting videos and end-user replaceable batteries to reduce unnecessary callouts. However, to build a scalable system, this needs to be coupled with the right, flexible solutions to tackle customer concerns. Taking the time to find out what is important to the end user is vital here and can lead to natural up-scale opportunities. For instance, for those in a property prone to flooding, a flood sensor may be a worthwhile addition. Similarly, a panic button and even medical transmitters may be of benefit to others. All this, as well as other options, such as glass break detectors, door and window sensors and indoor and outdoor MotionViewers™, are available within the ProSeries range, and can be updated or added to an installation as needed or as a property grows with minimum disruption.  Adding life safety The ability to propose an alarm system that can bring together alerts for different threats – for both the home and life – under one platform, also has real appeal. Indeed, in a survey of 1,000 homeowners undertaken on behalf of Resideo, a system’s ability to alert to the dangers presented by fire and CO was mentioned as an important part of the decision-making process by 41% of participants. For many, this increased awareness may stem from the many regulation updates regarding smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms that took place in 2022. In Scotland, for instance, carbon monoxide detectors were required to be fitted in any room with a carbon-fuelled appliance in all homes, rented or owned. Social housing properties In England, smoke and carbon monoxide alarms were required in all social housing properties In England, from the 1st of October 2002, smoke and carbon monoxide alarms were required in all social housing properties, with carbon monoxide alarms now mandatory in the private rented sector. Wales followed suit in December for rented accommodation.  The new guidance for England and Wales requires at least one smoke alarm to be installed on each storey of a property, to help alert to domestic fires more quickly, ensuring a quicker evacuation and reduced risk of fatality. For professionals, systems such as ProSeries, can be connected to a series of smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, in a ‘one-go-all-go’ setup that means the alarm will go off if one of these threats are identified.  Smart and connected benefits The total Connect 2.0 app gives ProSeries end-users the ability to view and control the security platform remotely. The Resideo Pro app currently gives installers the ability to view the system and connect to the central monitoring system. The platform also supports home automation as it works with Zwave devices. The platform also supports home automation as it works with Z-wave devices. The platform also supports home automation as it works with Z-wave devices There are also extra benefits for alarm professionals too. The AlarmNet 360™platform on which ProSeries is configured gives greater insight to improve business operations, increase efficiency and deliver insights on accounts to identify additional upsell opportunities and ongoing services. Providing the ability to remotely diagnose brings valuable time-saving options and avoids unnecessary callouts. It also means the ProSeries panel and peripherals programming can be accessed anytime, anywhere, using the cloud, allowing ease of programming, troubleshooting and account management on the go. Needs and future possibilities Changing a complete alarm system to apply new functions is never going to feature highly with the end user, nor does it work where longevity and sustainability is concerned. Having the ability to build a modular system and add to this as needed, whether this is at a property or a small business, provides benefits for both customers and professionals when it comes to meeting immediate needs and future possibilities. Add connectivity and remote access to this and you have a platform that can help streamline business operations, putting professionals more in touch with customers, and helping to spot future opportunities.

Amidst the challenges of a prevailing economic downturn, the retail sector finds itself grappling with an unparalleled rise in incidents of shoplifting, theft, and burglaries. The disconcerting scenes witnessed on London’s Oxford Street in August 2023,​ where crowds gathered, looting as many stores as possible, sent shockwaves across the nation’s retailers. This alarming surge in retail crime has put retailers on high alert, as they contend with a rising tide of security concerns.  Shoplifting concerns Recent data from the Union of Shop Distributive and Allied Workers (USDAW), has raised alarming concerns: shoplifting rates have surged by an unprecedented 24%.​ In the first half of 2023 alone, there were approximately 8 million reported shoplifting incidents. With the ongoing burden of the cost of living crisis and the approaching festive season, it is expected that these figures will keep surging.  Implementing robust security measures Theft and prevention strategies cost retailers approximately £2 billion in 2021/2022 While more help from the Government to support retail workers and the businesses shoplifters target is certainly needed, the implementation of robust security measures will significantly contribute to deterring these crimes from occurring in the first place. British retailers spend millions on tools to deter and catch shoplifters inside stores, from CCTV and security guards to electronic tagging and alarms. The Grocer reported that theft and prevention strategies cost retailers approximately £2 billion in 2021/2022. Despite these initial costs, other threats are at play beyond the shop floor. Break-ins by criminal gangs For many large town centre stores and supermarkets, and units in retail parks, the rear doors and delivery areas are commonly targeted by criminal gangs. It’s not uncommon for thefts to occur from pallets or cages that have been unloaded from lorries and sit waiting to be moved into the building. After-hours break-ins are a risk for all store owners too, particularly over the festive season when a lot of high-value stock has been delivered to shops and supermarkets. Addressing anti-social behaviour  The additional fencing was deemed an essential measure to safeguard the community Anti-social behaviour also poses a challenge for retailers. In 2022, an Aldi based in Derby​ invested in security fencing to protect staff and deter loitering groups. The additional fencing was deemed an essential measure to safeguard the community, as dangerous items were frequently found outside the store, including weapons and hypodermic needles.  So how do physical security solutions such as fencing and gates help better protect retail establishments such as supermarkets and edge-of-town retail park shops? Fencing and gates: a critical component of retail security  1. Risk assessment and target hardening  A thorough risk assessment will identify potential weak spots that require protection. ‘Target hardening’ involves implementing physical security measures that become more robust as they approach the target. This helps deter intruders while ensuring ease of access for customers and staff.  2. Effective perimeter security  Opt for difficult-to-climb security fencing that provides a robust obstacle against thieves, vandals, and intruders Selecting fencing solutions according to the potential threats, site characteristics, and topography is crucial. It is important to specify fencing that strikes a balance and maintains a welcoming appearance while safeguarding external areas of the store or warehouse from potential harm and unauthorised access. Solid fencing which provides concealment can help to conceal expensive goods and remove them as a target for opportunistic theft.  Opt for difficult-to-climb security fencing that provides a robust obstacle against thieves, vandals, and intruders. I recommend selecting a sufficiently tall and robust fence such as an acoustic barrier. Its noise-reducing properties are often beneficial for these types of sites too.  3. Controlling vehicular speeds and access  To enhance security, consider controlling vehicular speeds and access. One effective approach is the installation of bollards at the ends of traditional high streets. This practice is already commonplace as a means of safeguarding against hostile vehicle attacks, but it can also play a pivotal role in preventing quick getaways of vehicles involved in potential heists. Additionally, employing road blockers and sliding gates at the rear entrances of delivery areas would serve to fortify security further. These measures can help in delaying vehicles, allowing for necessary checks to be conducted.  4. Balancing security with aesthetics  The presence of high-security fencing can also make a site more of a target for vandals and burglars Another challenge is avoiding creating an imposing presence, especially important for areas situated near residential communities. The presence of high-security fencing can also make a site more of a target for vandals and burglars. To minimise this risk consider specifying timber fencing and traffic barriers to secure car parks, providing both security and a welcoming atmosphere for shoppers.  Taking an integrated approach Combine secure perimeter fencing with effective lighting in places with shaded areas and at doors, gates, and shop windows, alongside Perimeter Intrusion Detection Systems (PIDS), and strategically placed CCTV. These measures will hinder unauthorised entry and escape, increasing the likelihood of detection and apprehension.  Prioritising employee wellbeing  Installing robust security fencing, complemented by CCTV, good lighting, and guarding, creates a safe environment Installing robust security fencing, complemented by CCTV, good lighting, and guarding, creates a safe environment for employees. This not only safeguards their well-being but also provides peace of mind that they are protected effectively in the case of a burglary or crime.  When selecting security products for retail sites, it is advisable to opt for items that have undergone rigorous testing and carry relevant certifications for their security level. Each component should meet industry-specific standards for its intended purpose and originate from manufacturers accredited under ISO 9001:2015. This ensures a high standard of quality and reliability in safeguarding the premises.  High-quality security fencing As the cost-of-living crisis continues, crime rates increase, and the festive season approaches, the time to act and implement on-site security is now. By investing in comprehensive security measures, retailers can protect their assets, employees, and customers, ensuring a safer and more secure shopping environment for all. High-quality security fencing is also a sound investment, that requires little or no maintenance once installed. The best fencing solutions are extremely weather-resistant, and won’t suffer from rust or corrosion. With all sectors preparing to ride the rapids of recession in the coming year, improving on-site security while selecting cost-effective measures, is one surefire way to protect your people, your property, and your profits from harm. 

Companies at GSX 2023 emphasised new ways that technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and the cloud can address long-standing issues in the security market. Among the exhibitors at the event in Dallas were companies seeking creative ways to apply technology, lower costs, and make the world a safer place. Reflecting on the exhibition, here are some additional takeaways. Expanding AI at the edge  i-PRO is a company reflecting the continued expansion of edge AI capability in the security market. Today, more than half of the company’s lineup supports AI at the edge so the customer has a wide choice of form factors when seeking to leverage the feature set.  AI processing relay, extended warranty i-PRO is increasing their warranty period from 5 to 7 years, which could be a lifetime warranty in some cases I-PRO also has an “AI processing relay” device that accepts non-AI video streams and applies edge analytics. AI has progressed from a high-end technology to a feature available in a variety of cameras at different price points. i-PRO is also increasing its warranty period from 5 to 7 years, which could be a lifetime warranty in some cases depending on a customer’s refresh schedule and lifecycle management. Active Guard, MonitorCast The company’s video management system (Video Insight) is continuing to build new features including “Active Guard,” an integrated metadata sorter. Their access control platform, MonitorCast, is a Mercury-based solution that is tightly integrated with Video Insight. Their embedded recorders now have PoE built in.  “We can move at a faster pace to fill out our product line since leaving Panasonic,” says Adam Lowenstein, Director of Product Management. “We can focus our business on adapting to the market.” Emphasis on retail and other verticals  Shoplifting is a timely issue, and retail is a vertical market that got a lot of attention at GSX 2023. “We see a lot of retailers who are primarily interested in protecting employee safety, but also assets,” says Brandon Davito, Verkada’s SVP of Product and Operations. “Shrinkage is a CEO-level priority.”  “Retailers are getting more engaged with security posture, instead of letting perpetrators walk,” Davito adds. Intrusion detection Verkada has an intrusion product that will notify a central station if there is an alarm On the alarm side, Verkada has an intrusion product that will notify a central station if there is an alarm, and operators can review videos to confirm the alarm. Other capabilities seeking to discourage trespassers include sirens, strobes, and “talkdown” capabilities.  International expansion Verkada continues to expand internationally with 16 offices in all, including Sydney, Tokyo, and London. The core value proposition is to enable customers to manage their onsite infrastructure more simply, including new elements such as PTZ cameras, intercoms, and visitor management. Verkada emphasises ease of use, including a mobile application to allow access to be managed across the user base. Forging partnerships “We are committed to the channel and industry, and we continue to build relationships and expand our reach,” says Davito. Among the industry relationships is a new partnership with Convergint, which was hinted at during the show and announced later the same day. They are also expanding their partnerships with Schlage, Allegion, and ASSA ABLOY.  Working with other verticals They offer new features for K -12 schools, and a new alarm platform is easier to deploy and manage Verkada has also found success across multiple other verticals, notably healthcare, where they integrate with an electronic medical records system. They offer new features for K-12 schools, and a new alarm platform is easier to deploy and manage. They are integrating wireless locks to secure interior doors in schools, looking to secure the perimeter, and installing guest management systems. Transitioning the mid-market to the cloud  Salient is squarely focused on the “mid-market,” a large swath of systems somewhere between small businesses and enterprise-level systems. Pure cloud systems are not as attractive to this market, which has a built-out infrastructure of on-premise systems. Adding a camera to an existing system is easier and less expensive than tying it to the cloud. Benefits of cloud It’s a market that may not be ready for the pure cloud, but there are benefits to be realised from adding a cloud element to existing systems. “We are continuing to augment our premise-based solutions with added cloud capabilities and flexibility,” says Sanjay Challa, Salient’s Chief Product Officer.  The feedback Salient hears from their customers is “I want to own my data.” The hybrid cloud approach offers the right mix of control, flexibility, and unit economics. Cloud add-on capabilities We want to provide the flexibility for customers to go full-cloud as it becomes more economically attractive" Cloud add-on capabilities include bringing more intelligence about system operation to the user via the cloud. Over time, Salient expects to sell more cloud-centric offerings based on feedback from integrators and customers. “We want to provide the flexibility for customers to go full-cloud as it becomes more economically attractive over time,” says Challa.  Vaidio AI technology Salient seeks to be a transition pioneer to help customers realise the path to the cloud. Their approach is “crawl, walk, run,” and helping customers make the transition at each stage. Salient has added AI to its product offering, incorporating Vaidio AI technology from IronYun into a powerful suite and broad array of on-premise analytics, which are gaining traction. The seamless approach makes it easy for customers to embrace AI analytics, although Salient remains broadly committed to open systems. Addressing ‘soft’ features for integrators AMAG is in the process of enhancing its product line with the next generation of access control panels. However, “product” is just part of the new developments at AMAG. In addition to “hard” features (such as products), the company is looking to improve its “soft” features, too; that is, how they work with the integrator channel. Integrator channel Rebuilding a process to make your organisation more efficient, is relatively easy; it just takes a lot of persistence" “We have the depth of our legacy customer base we can learn from, we just need to close the feedback loop quicker,” says Kyle Gordon, AMAG’s Executive Vice President of Global Sales, Marketing, and commercial Excellence, who acknowledges the value of reinstating face-to-face meetings after COVID. “We are laser-focused on nurturing our integrator channel,” he says.  “Developing new features takes time, but rebuilding a process to make your organisation more efficient, that’s relatively easy; it just takes a lot of persistence,” says Gordon. More cohesive internal communication is another useful tool, he says.  Disrupting the cloud based on price  Wasabi is working to make cloud applications less expensive by offering a “disruptive” price on cloud storage, $6.99 per terabyte per month (80% less than hyperscalers). Contending “hyperscalers” like AWS are charging too much for cloud storage, Wasabi is using its own intellectual property and server equipment co-located in data centres around the world. Wasabi sells “hot cloud storage,” which refers to the fact that they only have one tier of storage and data is always accessible. In contrast, a company such as AWS might charge an “egress fee” for access to data stored in a “colder” tier.  Cloud storage “We saw that several video surveillance companies had not yet adopted cloud storage, and we saw an opportunity to make it easy to use,” said Drew Schlussel, Wasabi’s Senior Director of Product Marketing. “We just install a little bit of software that allows them to store data in the cloud and bring it back from the cloud.” Performance, protection (cybersecurity), and price Wasabi works with integrators, resellers, and distributors and also integrates with VMS companies Wasabi works with integrators, resellers, and distributors and also integrates with VMS companies such as Genetec and Milestone. Emphasising performance, protection (cybersecurity), and price, their data centres are certified to SOC 2 and ISO 27001 standards.  Faster throughput for weapons detection Xtract One is a young company focusing on weapons detection in a time of accelerated concern about gun issues post-COVID. Founded in Canada and based on technology developed at McMaster University, Xtract One has found a niche in providing weapons detection at stadiums and arenas. These customers already have budgets, and it is easy to shift the money to a newer, faster technology. Madison Square Garden in New York City is among its customers.  Cost savings solution Xtract One can increase throughput to 30 to 50 people per entrance per minute (compared to 5 to 6 people per minute when using metal detectors). The solution doesn’t require anyone to empty their pockets and the system alarms on items beyond guns and knives. Using Xtract One allows customers to reduce the number of screening lanes and security staff, providing additional cost savings, all while getting fans through the screening process in half the time. Purpose-built sensors The system uses purpose-built sensors looking for specific characteristics, such as reflective and density properties In addition to stadiums and arenas, Xtract One, formerly Patriot One, is also getting “inbound” interest from schools, hospitals, manufacturers, and other verticals that makeup 50% of their business. “We’re on a rocket ride, mainly because the weapons issues are not going away,” says Peter Evans, CEO and Director at Xtract One. The system uses purpose-built sensors looking for specific characteristics, such as reflective and density properties, all correlated by an AI engine.  Providing early warning of violence ZeroEyes is another company focused on weapons detection. Their AI gun detection system works with video images to identify if someone is “brandishing” (carrying) a weapon. In other words, the system does not detect concealed weapons. Identifying someone carrying a weapon provides early warning of a possible violent act. Increased response with AI-enables images Images are identified by AI and sent to a monitoring centre where a human confirms the image before contacting first responders. Knowing the location of a shooter enables staff to lock entry points, move people to safety, and direct first responders. The company was founded to leverage existing camera views to stop mass shootings and gun violence by reducing response times. 

A pioneer in the access control sector since 1971, AMAG Technology is looking to the future and the next generation of products that will expand its services to customers. “In our vision, we have advanced approaches that will not only provide our partners with advanced technologies but also ones that are easier to install with tools to expand their services,” says David Sullivan, who was appointed President of the venerable access control company in September 2022. New challenges at AMAG Sullivan brings a new outlook to the AMAG business, a part of Allied Universal, and a new vision to lead the company into the future. We caught up with David Sullivan to discuss his new challenges at AMAG and the journey ahead as the company looks to the future. Q: How does your background inform your approach to leading AMAG? I believe that it helps me to define a vision for AMAG that will be unique and on the leading edge of our industry David Sullivan: With the exception of only a few short years, my career has been in access control. I have experience with several systems and have had the privilege to manage several successful access control companies. As a result, I bring a great deal of experience into my role at AMAG. I believe that it helps me to define a vision for AMAG that will be unique and on the leading edge of our industry. Q: How would you describe AMAG’s journey over the last several years and how do you see the future? Sullivan: Prior presidents of AMAG always shared their leadership vision and direction with senior leaders located in the United Kingdom. This had an impact on the full direction of the business, sometimes limiting its ultimate success. Before I became a part of AMAG, these senior leaders that were located in the UK retired, placing for the first time the full management responsibilities of the president. This has allowed me to integrate the business into a single team, with single objectives, and a single vision. We expect to begin to reveal this new vision in the coming weeks. We are excited about the future of AMAG and believe we will surprise the industry with our new products and approach in the coming months and years. Q: How important is it that a manufacturer provides both hardware and software solutions? How does AMAG’s approach (in general) differentiate it in the market? We can design the complete solution, providing functionality that others may find more difficult to accomplish Sullivan: Regardless of the manufacturer, we all provide hardware and software. An access control solution is not complete without both. Some of us choose to make our panels, and others do not. Those who are dependent on third-party suppliers are restricted to the developments and direction of that company, and while it might be perceived to be an open technology, it still is proprietary to the hardware manufacturer. AMAG has controlled its manufacturing of panels from day one. The result means that we can design the complete solution, providing functionality that others may find more difficult to accomplish. Q: How does the breadth of AMAG’s product suite provide advantages to customers and/or integrators? Sullivan: AMAG’s product portfolio is unique and provides the end user with an end-to-end identity management solution from one company. Our Control Room PSIM, Symmetry CONNECT Identity Management Solution, Symmetry Access Control, and Symmetry GUEST solutions all integrate to provide the user with a broad set of features and capabilities from a single provider. There is no finger-pointing when we come to support your system. We hold full responsibility for making it work and can quickly provide a resolution to any application difficulties the user may be experiencing. Q: How does AMAG address the divide between on-prem and cloud systems? How do you help customers make the transition and/or plan for the future? We are in the early stages of developing our next generation of access control in which we intend to provide on-prem Sullivan: In our current product portfolio, we have three products that are cloud-based. Our mobile credential platform (Symmetry Mobile), our visitor management solution (Symmetry GUEST), and our physical identity and access management solution (Symmetry CONNECT) are all offerings that operate in the cloud. We are in the early stages of developing our next generation of access control in which we intend to provide on-prem, web client, and cloud-based offerings. One of the primary objectives is to ensure that the large installed base of systems that are out there today will be able to migrate not only to our next generation but as well to the cloud if the client so desires. Q: What is AMAG’s approach to mobile credentialing? Sullivan: As an access control provider, adding Symmetry Mobile credentialing to our portfolio just made sense. We want our customers to have a forward-thinking solution with the opportunity to save money not only on the physical badges but the cost of printing and distributing badges. Mobile credentials can be easily issued and revoked remotely, reducing administrative overhead, and eliminating the need for physical inventory management. Organisations can centrally configure what devices are used and the read range for each type of device and operating system, thus providing flexibility. Symmetry Mobile offers a customised questionnaire that controls access and reduces liabilities. Q: What has surprised you the most in your first year or so leading AMAG? Not many companies are blessed with such a broad portfolio that is supported by a resource-rich company Sullivan: I wouldn’t say I was surprised by this as much as happy to see, but I would say that the quality of our people was a pleasant surprise. As well, the AMAG product offering is broad and has some unique elements. When coupled with the depth of the resources that we have in AMAG, I know that we are second to none. Not many companies are blessed with such a broad portfolio that is supported by a resource-rich company that has so many talented people. Q: Please describe your dealer channel, and how you are seeking to expand it. Sullivan: The AMAG products are sophisticated and typically are installed for higher-end applications. With this sophistication comes a need to be well able to install such a solution. We have a strong group of certified and loyal partners who help us to deliver these enterprise solutions. We desire to provide our existing partners with updated and competitive systems to offer to their end users. Q: What is the security industry’s (and/or AMAG’s) biggest challenge in the next five years? We need to find ways to provide both our channel partners and the customers with solutions that are easily integrated Sullivan: I believe that the advancements that we are seeing in technology provide our industry with the opportunity to truly change how security is provided to our collective customers. As we advance these solutions, we will need to do so responsibly and in a way that helps the channel’s abilities. We need to find ways to train our partners to both install and support these more complex solutions. At the same time, we need to find ways to provide both our channel partners and the customers with solutions that are easily integrated, moving away from proprietary closed systems to open and cohesive solutions. This will ensure that the users get the best, and most complete solutions. Q: What does the industry as a whole misunderstand about AMAG -- time to set the record straight! Sullivan: Well, I am not ready to openly share where we are heading. We are in the process of putting together some advanced approaches to how we will do business with our partners. We are focused on providing tools that will enhance their services to their customers, and with products that are leading edge. I can only state that all should keep their eyes on AMAG, because over the next few years, we are going to surprise some people, and more importantly make our loyal partners quite powerful.

Acre is a company built on mergers and acquisitions (M&A). Since its founding in 2012, Acre acquired several familiar access control companies, from Vanderbilt to RS2 Technologies, Open Options to Feenics, and several others. Acre itself was acquired in 2021 by UK-based private equity firm Triton, thus launching a new chapter in the company's history. Don Joos was named the new CEO in 2022 and set about transforming Acre from a collection of acquired companies into a coherent whole (representing various brands). A year later, we recently caught up with Don Joos to discuss the "new Acre" and what's ahead. Q: How does your background inform your approach to leading Acre Security? In physical security, there is a shift to more of a software-centric versus hardware approach Joos: This is my fourth company as CEO. What I’ve found along the way is that no matter the size or type of business, there’s a common theme, the business is going through some form of evolution or transformation because the industry they're in is going through an evolution. And today, in physical security, there is a shift to more of a software-centric versus hardware approach, and there’s a shift occurring that’s pulling us to the cloud. I think a key thing here is that while the industry is evolving, we must keep a careful eye on the evolution of the customer because the customer is the one who will dictate the pace of change, and I think that is what a lot of people sometimes lose sight of. Q: It seems Acre is on the path from being a “collection of small companies” to “a collection of brands within a single company.” Joos: I think most people think of Acre as a federation of companies. Acre Security was seen more as a holding company. For me, I think the biggest misconception is just that: “This is just a federation of companies” versus “This is a business.” Acre Security is a business that has a range of portfolios to address key verticals and pivotal business problems for customers. Because of what’s happening now and the market dynamics that are occurring, it ties back to “Who is Acre Security?” We have a clear answer as to where we want to be from cloud access control versus on-premise access control. We have clear answers regarding market segments, visitor management, and intrusion. When you think about it, those are the core areas of our business. Q: What has surprised you the most in your first year or so at Acre? Joos: I think the thing that surprised me the most was how similar the problems are because I was coming into a new industry. It’s surprising how strong a correlation [security has] to other industry transformations that I’ve been a part of. Q: What are the points of differentiation among the various Acre Security brands? Joos: I think if you go back to the history of the company, it was designed to compete. That is, that's how it was set up under the logic of, “If we have three bids in a deal, it increases the odds that we're going to win one of them.” As we evolve, to have sustained scalable growth, it is not just about going shallow and casting a wide net. It’s about creating a concentrated focus. Some of the technology is just inherently older technology. And so for me, it’s about creating migration paths for the customers to move to more modern technology, such as the cloud. I love our installed base. When you think about the cost of acquisition to get a new cloud customer, it costs a lot less when you have an installed base that you can migrate to the more modern solution versus having to spend the money and the sales energy to hunt for that next opportunity. Q: Where has Acre positioned itself in the marketplace? We can take care of your current needs, but we also have a clear migration path to take care of your future needs Joos: If you're ready to go to the cloud, we have an answer for you. If you're not ready to go to the cloud, but you're ready to take more cloud-based applications to continue to evolve, we have an answer for you. If you're not quite ready yet and you're still looking for a market-leading premises solution, we have an answer for you, and we have a migration path when you're ready down the road. So, you have a safe bet with Acre because we can take care of your current needs, but we also have a clear migration path to take care of your future needs. Q: How are you building up your team? Joos: In 2023, we’re getting a lot of core building blocks in place and making investments in people who have experience in this space or aligned industries. It is a balance. I think we need a group that understands the industry and a group that's going to come into it and challenge why we do things the way we do. I think that makes us unique: we have fresh eyes looking at things from a different perspective. With that, you’re naturally going to end up with a better answer to problems because people are comfortable challenging the status quo. Q: How are you seeking to expand your dealer channel and/or transition it from the various dealers “inherited” in previous acquisitions? Joos: The channel invests in Acre Security. Our success is their success, and so what we're proposing to them is a range of solutions that supports their longevity and their financial success. But we also continue to build out our portfolio through organic technology innovation or M&A.  We're continuing to make investments in our channel strategy and how our partners interact with us We're continuing to expand their addressable market if they want to make investments with us. We're continuing to make investments in our channel strategy and how our partners interact with us. The design of our upcoming technology right now is built with the channel in mind. We want to ensure that we are not creating any channel conflict or any perceived channel conflict. I think that's usually the worst kind: when it's perceived but not real. You need to be very upfront and clear with communications. Q: What is the biggest challenge in the industry right now? Joos: Companies and customers are looking to embed security into their workflows. What I mean is these are not just standalone solutions anymore. They’re integrating with enterprise resource planning (ERP) and human resource (HR) software systems. In property management, they want it integrated into the fitness center, they want it integrated into the cafeteria areas and the dry cleaners, and so forth. So, this is about an ecosystem, and there are times when we are going to be the core, and there is going to be a lot of technology that is adjacent to us. There are times when we are the adjacency to someone else's core in a smart city or a smart building. This gets to why having an open application programming interface (API) is going to be an important part of the technology evolution. It cannot be a closed environment anymore; that is part of the past. Q: What’s next for Acre? We're constantly evolving our cloud access control as well as our on-premise access control Joos: There is a lot of work going on with integrating the business into a single Acre Security company. This is an investment year for us, we are adding people to our team. We are making a lot of investments from a systems and technology perspective. We have a lot of work right now going into integrating the business from an IT infrastructure perspective and all the tools that we use from an employee perspective. We are making a lot of investment as it relates to the commercial side. You're going to see some next-gen technology coming out from an intrusion perspective. We're constantly evolving our cloud access control as well as our on-premise access control. We're also bringing software applications, too. Q: What is Acre’s “message” going forward? Joos: One of the takeaways for me is this is not the Acre of the past. We are making some bold changes. New things are happening here; you better pay attention because clearly, something is different. I think that's one. I think the second is that as they spend time within us, they're going to realize the wide range of solutions and use cases that we can address, whether you're in access control or cloud, whether you're in intrusion, whether you are in visitor management, or whether you're looking at some network connectivity solutions. The third thing that I think people are going to see is a whole lot of energy as they talk to our people and the passion that you see from the team. If I wrap those three points up in one kind of statement there, I think my goal is that people walk away saying “Something is going on at Acre Security. We better pay attention.”

A renowned global pioneer in international education services provides various programs and comprehensive support to students pursuing their educational goals abroad. Originating from Australia in 1969, its primary objective has been facilitating educational opportunities worldwide. The company is closely associated with IELTS (International English Language Testing System), and it assists students in studying in English-speaking nations like Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Ireland, the UK, and the US. Company profile In India alone, it has over 70 offices across 61 cities and grew its operations in Southeast Asian nations Situated in Delhi, India, the company’s Indian headquarters serves as a central operational hub, addressing the diverse needs of Indian students aspiring for overseas education. With a team of dedicated experts, the centre offers students personalised guidance, counselling, and support nationwide. In India alone, it has over 70 offices across 61 cities and expanded its operations in Southeast Asian countries. Motivated by a commitment to excellence, integrity, and student success, the company continues to empower individuals, fostering global connections and promoting cultural understanding through international education. Challenges Ensuring the integrity of its assessment process Needed a standard procedure that could be replicated across 61 locations Evidence capturing to confirm the identity of the student appearing for the exam Needed a surveillance solution that ensured compliance at the centre Need to capture footage locally and centralised monitoring The surveillance solution should be dependable, scalable, and interoperable Business scenario The institute sought a wide surveillance solution that captured the details of every student As the co-owner of the IELTS, the institute faced significant challenges in ensuring the integrity of its assessment process for students studying in English-speaking countries. With centres spread across India and other Southeast Asian countries like Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Bhutan, they needed a reliable surveillance solution to verify the identity of candidates at their assessment centres. It was crucial for the assessment process to be standardised across 61 locations and easily replicable in new centres. With 11 assessment centres and 49 centres where students arrived for assessment, the institute sought a comprehensive surveillance solution that captured the details of every student entering their premises and cross-referenced them with their system centrally. Additionally, they required a robust recording architecture to store video evidence for future reference as needed securely. In essence, the company faced the distressing challenge of establishing a surveillance solution that was dependable, scalable, capable of capturing essential details, and interoperable. They needed a distributed architecture with centralised control to meet their surveillance requirements effectively. Solution The surveillance solution comprised of: The challenges faced by the institute were swiftly assessed by Matrix experts, who devised a robust surveillance structure to ensure compliance across multiple centres in India and abroad. In all 61 centres, Matrix 2MP PTZ cameras with 25x optical zoom were strategically installed to capture the faces of candidates arriving for tests and match them with their recorded details in the system. The movement of each candidate was meticulously recorded in the system to maintain accurate identity records. The action of each candidate was meticulously recorded in the system to keep real identity records Further, the accuracy was enhanced by adding a secondary layer of surveillance to monitor compliance with the SOP. Matrix PTZ cameras with 25x optical zoom adeptly captured intricate event details recorded in the computer. To meet the needs of each centre, NVRs (Network Video Recorders) with different capacities were installed. This enabled the local recording of details at each centre. Following the client's specifications, the NVRs were configured to store recorded details for three months. Additionally, cameras were installed at the 11 OSM sites to ensure compliance at the places where the papers were assessed. Products offered SATATYA MIBR20FL36CWP: 543  2MP IR Bullet Camera with 3.6mm Lens with Audio SATATYA MIDR20FL36CWP: 264 2MP IR Dome Camera with 3.6mm Lens with Audio SATATYA PZCR20ML25CWP: 76 2MP Pan-Tilt-Zoom Camera with 25x Optical Zoom SATATYA NVR1601X - 8 Nos 16 Channel NVR with 1 SATA Port  SATATYA NVR1602X - 8Nos 16 Channel NVR with 2 SATA Port - 8 Nos SATATYA NVR3202X - 1Nos 32 Channel NVR with 2 SATA Port SATATYA NVR3204X - 31Nos 32 Channel NVR with 4 SATA Port SATATYA NVR6404X - 2Nos 64 Channel NVR with 4 SATA Port SATATYA NVR6408X - 7Nos 64 Channel NVR with 8 SATA Port MATRIX LICENCE DONGLE 200 Enterprise VMS: USB Dongle to Run Licence Application SATATYA SAMAS PLT Enterprise VMS: Software for up to 65,535 Cameras SATATYA SAMAS CAM100 - 5Nos            Enterprise VMS: 100 Camera Licence SATATYA SAMAS USER3 - 5Nos Enterprise VMS: 3 Concurrent User Licence Benefits Enhanced Assessment Integrity: By implementing Matrix 2MP PTZ cameras with 25x optical zoom across all 61 assessment centres, the company ensured the integrity of the assessment process. These cameras meticulously capture the faces of candidates arriving for tests, allowing them to verify their identities and maintain accurate records. Standardised and Replicable Procedure: The Education Centre needed a standard procedure that could be replicated across the extensive network of centres. The Matrix surveillance solution provided it with a standardised approach that could be easily implemented in new locations, ensuring consistency in its assessment process. Compliance Assurance: The addition of Matrix PTZ cameras with 25x optical zoom and a secondary layer of surveillance helped them monitor and ensure compliance with the Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) at all times. Dependable and Scalable Surveillance: Matrix's NVRs with different capacities allowed the Institute to locally store recorded details at each centre while ensuring reliability and scalability for future expansion. Centralised Monitoring: To streamline the operations, they needed a surveillance solution that allowed seamless central monitoring. Matrix's solution facilitated the cross-referencing of student details with their system centrally and, enhancing efficiency and data accuracy. Interoperability: Matrix's surveillance solution is designed to be interoperable, ensuring seamless integration with the existing infrastructure. This interoperability enables them to adapt to evolving technological requirements while maintaining the integrity of the assessment process. In summary, Matrix's comprehensive surveillance solution not only addressed the immediate challenges but also provided a robust foundation for the assessment process, enabling them to uphold the highest standards of integrity, compliance, and efficiency across all assessment centres.

Burger King is a global chain of fast-food restaurants, founded in 1954 in Miami, Florida. It has since expanded into one of the world’s largest fast-food chains, with thousands of locations spanning over 100 countries. The company is known for its commitment to quality ingredients, innovative menu items, and iconic marketing campaigns. With a steadfast focus on continual improvement and innovation, Burger King remains at the forefront of ensuring a secure dining experience for its customers across its global network of restaurants. The company prioritises robust security measures within its restaurants. Challenge Integrate security system and video surveillance across all Burger King branches in Norway. Burger King, like many fast-food businesses, uses security systems and video surveillance to keep their property safe from theft, vandalism, and unauthorised access. This creates an atmosphere where staff and customers feel safe and comfortable. The main aim was to safeguard the buildings, equipment, employees, and customers while causing as little disturbance to the operation of the chain’s restaurants as possible. Solution Wireless security system with easy-to-use mobile management and flexible access control, ensuring seamless integration into daily operations. Hub 2 Plus Jeweller control panel Hub 2 Plus Jeweller control panel supports a great number of security devices and user groups AlarmLink Oslo AS is a security installation company that operates throughout the entire country. The installer has recommended Ajax devices as a professional solution that meets the most stringent security standards. Each restaurant was equipped with a Hub 2 Plus Jeweller control panel. This model supports a great number of security devices and user groups. Ajax Cloud It is crucial for further scaling, as it allows for accommodating expanding security needs without major infrastructure changes. With four communication channels and LTE support, the hub can be connected to two separate Internet providers over Ethernet and Wi-Fi while having two cellular services ready for backup. It guarantees connectivity to Ajax Cloud and the central monitoring station under any conditions. Motion and opening detectors control all possible entries into the building, protecting against intrusion and burglary KeyPad Jeweller Ajax solutions are designed for ease of use. Through the app, restaurant executives with admin rights can manage the security system directly from their smartphones. They receive immediate notifications when someone enters restricted areas, as KeyPad Jeweller is installed at the service premises entrance. Ajax app Restaurant staff smoothly integrated Ajax devices into their routine, using the Ajax app as the primary interface for the system. Managers arm the system when they leave and disarm it upon arrival. They can efficiently control access to restricted areas and receive real-time notifications for any security breaches. This integration not only ensures smooth restaurant operations but also enhances premises security and monitoring at all times. Seamless integration With Ajax technologies, the restaurant chain effortlessly eliminated the need for costly new installations All suggested features were seamlessly integrated with Burger King’s existing video surveillance system because third-party cameras can be easily added to the Ajax app. With Ajax technologies, the restaurant chain effortlessly eliminated the need for costly new installations. This straightforward integration not only enhanced security measures but also saved the company money. Sleek and modern look Additionally, Ajax devices are visually appealing and seamlessly fit into the interior. Ajax Systems offers security solutions that not only keep things safe but also blend in nicely with any environment. Therefore, the sleek and modern look of Ajax products contributes to a welcoming and safe dining experience for customers. Why Ajax Cost savings on installation: In certain countries, such as Norway, installing security devices can be expensive due to taxes and other related costs. Ajax reduced this expense item by half. The devices are ready to use out of the box, easy to install, and can be added to the system by scanning a QR code. Seamless integration with existing security system: Ajax’s partners, specialists from AlarmLink Oslo AS, took a balanced approach and effectively integrated the existing video surveillance system with the Ajax security system. Easy system management: Ajax solutions are excellent for chain companies, as they streamline the application of security features across all locations. Staff can quickly learn to use the system, which is especially important for businesses with high employee turnover rates. Products Hub 2 Plus Jeweller: Security system control panel DoorProtect Jeweller: Wireless opening detector MotionProtect Jeweller: Wireless motion detector KeyPad Jeweller: Wireless wall-mounted keypad MotionCam Jeweller: Motion detector with a photo camera to verify alarms

The Middle East has recently expanded its real estate market as the region's economy grows and urbanisation accelerates. This trend has led to an increasing demand for smart security, and the pace of digital intelligence change is gradually increasing. The security industry in the Middle East is rapidly growing, driven by the government's strong emphasis on national security and terrorism prevention. Centralised systems management Significant attention and investment have been directed toward this sector, estimated to grow at about 10% per year. There is no doubt that the Middle East has become one of the most important and fastest-growing security markets in the world. While traditional real estate management requires a location-based approach, the digital transformation of the marketplace means that centralised systems management will replace the traditional approach, and that's exactly what Provis is starting to think about. The customer Provis is a property management company based in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Provis is a property management company based in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). With over 25,000 units under property management, over 28,000 units under Owners’ Association management, and thousands of properties sold and leased. Based on their accumulated in-depth industry knowledge, and technical expertise, it is their commitment to provide sustainable value-added services through the assets of their clients.  Integrated service solutions To provide integrated service solutions based on international standards, allowing clients to focus on their core business with peace of mind, thereby setting a new benchmark for integrated real estate service solutions globally. For its owners to centrally manage their users and deliver smarter, easier real estate solutions to their customers, Provis turned to Anviz's integrator partners, PROGRESS SECURITY & SAFETY SYSTEMS and MEDC, for assistance. The challenge The company's business continues to grow and expand across various regions of the country Traditional property management in the UAE local area is inefficient and intensive, property managers need to spend a lot of time and energy to manually deal with those complicated and repetitive work. Conventional management is unable to effectively analyse a large amount of data, making it difficult to provide a basis for decision-making. Impact on user experience The delay and errors of manual processing are the very drawbacks that can be precisely removed in information management. Moreover, as the company's business continues to grow and expand across various regions of the country, the practice of processing information in a decentralised manner by location not only tends to create information silos, making it difficult to integrate and share data but also leads to delays in customer service due to lack of information exchange, thereby affecting user experience and the corporate image. The solution Thinking about the cut-and-dry and providing a heartfelt service Face Deep 3 maximises supports up to 10,000 dynamic face databases and quickly identifies users within 2 metres No matter whether in the youthful campus or orderly government and other places, there will be the movement of people. Quickly and accurately checking people is a basic requirement for front-end devices, and their Face Deep 3 maximises this need. It supports up to 10,000 dynamic face databases and quickly identifies users within 2 metres (6.5 feet) in less than 0.3 seconds, with customised alerts and various reports. The Account Manager of Provis said, "In the past, we always struggled with the data integration of multi-point control. Having used terminal devices and software that were not part of a single system, we found that it had no linkage effect and could not solve the problem of event recording and data sharing. And location-based time and attendance solutions were ineffective in centralising user management." Perspective of the CrossChex system Based on the scenario of property management, the personnel are scanned and inspected by Face Deep 3 and then redirected to the management department through the CrossChex application and CrossChex Cloud Web software to achieve data sharing and transfer.  Thus, the workflow of the property personnel is streamlined and standardised. Efficiency and cost management  CrossChex system integrates the property work content in an all-round and multi-dimensional way From the perspective of the CrossChex system, it integrates the property work content in an all-round and multi-dimensional way, which makes property management more scientific and orderly, improves management efficiency, and reduces cost. Meanwhile, the CrossChex system adopts a centralised management approach to gather all the information resources on a single platform. It also supports integration with ERP solutions to facilitate integrated management, which can reduce manpower and improve efficiency. The benefits Precision management, digital intelligence service CrossChex Cloud, as a software platform with customised functions based on customer scenarios, combined with Face Deep 3, which is embedded with the most updated technological algorithms, seamlessly handles the data of people's movements and promptly processes the event records to form multi-form visualisation reports.  Additionally, it supports business customisation and expansion to meet different business needs. It provides safe and reliable data encryption and rights management to protect user information security. Client’s quote Provis' Project Manager said, "Choosing to use Anviz's time attendance devices and cloud-based platform, allowed us to solve 89% of the repetitive steps for our owners' property management matters, making our brand image more visible."

As an Indian multinational public sector bank, this financial services entity plays a crucial role in bolstering India’s economy and addressing the diverse needs of its vast customer base. In the United Kingdom, this institution has been active since the early 1900s, gradually growing to become the largest Indian bank in the UK. Initially, its focus in the UK market was on wholesale banking, but it has since expanded its offerings to include a dedicated retail arm. Financial products and services Operating 11 branches across the UK, it provides a wide range of financial products and services tailored to both commercial and individual clients. These include commercial lending, buy-to-let mortgages, cash ISAs, safe deposit lockers, instant access savings accounts, business accounts, and fixed deposits.  Overview  The institution faced operational inefficiencies and security concerns due to maintaining separate software Confronted with the challenge of integrating attendance and payroll software, along with the inability to effectively restrict unauthorised access to its secured premises across 14 locations, a prominent financial institution sought a comprehensive multi-location solution. Additionally, the institution faced operational inefficiencies and security concerns due to maintaining separate software platforms for employee directories.  Need for a cloud-based attendance system To address these issues, the institution sought an integrated cloud-based attendance system that seamlessly integrates with payroll, enhances access control measures, and consolidates employee directory management. This solution aimed to ensure streamlined operations and heightened security across its premises.  Institution's challenge The challenges centered around implementing a cloud-based attendance system and access management processes, as detailed below:  Need for Integrated Attendance and Payroll Software  The financial institution faced difficulties managing attendance and payroll software separately, resulting in inefficiencies and potential discrepancies in salary processing. There was an urgent need to integrate these systems to ensure seamless data flow and improve payroll management.  Inadequate Entry and Exit Security Measures  The institution struggled to restrict unauthorised entry and exit into its secured premises, posing significant security risks. Strengthening access control measures was essential to mitigate the threat of unauthorised access and protect personnel and assets.  Need for a Single Employee Directory  Using different software for employee directories created complexity and inefficiency Using different software for employee directories created complexity and inefficiency in administrative processes. It was crucial to consolidate employee directory management into a single platform to ensure accurate, consistent, and easily accessible employee information.  Need for a Dedicated Server to Safeguard Data Integrity and Compliance  The client had stringent requirements regarding data usage, with a key stipulation being that their main servers could not be used to manage third-party applications. This necessitated the implementation of a separate server or a cloud-based attendance system to host third-party applications and services, ensuring strict data protection measures and compliance with relevant regulations.  These challenges highlighted the need for comprehensive solutions to improve operational efficiency, security, and data management within the financial institution.  Matrix solution  To tackle the challenges faced by the financial institution, Matrix delivered comprehensive solutions, including a cloud-based attendance system that transformed its attendance management processes:  Integration of Events and Payroll Software:  Matrix seamlessly merged the institution's event logs and payroll software, Darwin Box, through API Integration, guaranteeing synchronised data flow. Through this consolidation, Matrix facilitated smooth payroll processing, lessening inefficiencies, and decreasing the likelihood of discrepancies in salary management.  Enhancement of Entry and Exit Security Measures:  Utilising advanced technology, Matrix enhanced security protocols, reducing potential risks Matrix deployed proactive access control measures to strengthen the institution's premises against unauthorised entry and exit. Utilising advanced technology, Matrix enhanced security protocols, reducing potential risks and effectively protecting personnel and assets.  Unified Employee Directory Management:  Matrix unified the institution's management of employee directories by offering a centralised platform. By consolidating employee data, Matrix optimised the system so that updates made in the payroll software would automatically synchronise with the COSEC software, ensuring precise, uniform, and easily accessible vital employee information.  Implementation of Cloud-based Solution:  Due to a strict restriction on using the COSEC application on their primary server, Matrix proposed and implemented COSEC VYOM, a cloud-based attendance system tailored to their requirements. Moreover, this system was seamlessly linked with their payroll system through API Integration.  Results observed Matrix's comprehensive solutions brought significant enhancements across various facets of the financial institution's operations, yielding measurable improvements in efficiency, security, and compliance:  Efficient Payroll Processing: By integrating event logs and payroll software, Matrix facilitated seamless data flow and streamlined payroll By integrating event logs and payroll software, Matrix facilitated seamless data flow and streamlined payroll processing. This consolidation minimised inefficiencies and reduced discrepancies in salary management, causing more accurate and efficient payroll operations.  Improved Premises Security: Matrix's proactive implementation of access control technology, Matrix fortified entry and exit points, mitigating security risks, and effectively safeguarding personnel and assets.  Centralised Employee Directory Management: Through a unified platform for employee directory management, Matrix streamlined administrative processes and ensured consistency and accuracy in employee data. Changes made in the COSEC application automatically updated the payroll software, reducing manual effort and error.  Compliance with Data Protection Regulations via Cloud-Based Attendance System:  Matrix's provision of COSEC VYOM, a cloud-based attendance system, helped ensure compliance with strict data protection requirements. By segregating data and applications, Matrix improved data integrity and ensured adherence to regulations, minimising the risk of data breaches and non-compliance penalties.  Operational efficiency, security, compliance Matrix's solutions not only tackled the financial institution's challenges but also delivered tangible enhancements In summary, Matrix's solutions not only tackled the financial institution's challenges but also delivered tangible enhancements in operational efficiency, security, compliance, and data management. Matrix contributed to the institution's effectiveness and resilience in the financial sector through integrated systems and innovative solutions.  Products offered COSEC ARGO CAM200:  MiFare Classic Card-Based Ultra Fast Door Controller COSEC VYOM TENANT: Tenant User Licence COSEC VYOM PLATFORM UD10K: Cloud-based Platform User Licence for 10K User Days COSEC VYOM PLATFORM UD100K: Cloud-based Platform User Licence for 100K User Days

As the UAE's economy progressed, its territory became the world's experimental zone for pioneering construction technologies. The continuous rise of the construction industry has introduced a large number of labourers to stations on construction sites.  How to systematically manage workers under regulations, while ensuring the rights and interests of both workers and enterprises is the main problem currently faced by NGC on its way forward. The customer Nael General Contracting (NGC), founded in 1998, is one of the UAE's premier construction companies. Its core areas of expertise include the Design and Execution of Turnkey Construction Projects, Steel Structures, Aluminum & Glassworks, Interior Fit-out, Hard & Soft landscapes, MEP infrastructure, and Facilities Management. Based on 25 years of safe working life, NGC currently has more than 9,000 employees and has successfully contracted not limited to 250 projects. “NGC is seeking the best intelligent attendance solution for one of its construction sites with nearly a thousand workers.” To this end, NGC consulted Anviz's long-term partner Xedos.  The challenge Workers' attendance management on and off work is bitterly chaotic without intelligent attendance Workers' attendance management on and off work is bitterly chaotic without intelligent attendance equipment. Workers' shifts are unreasonable and shift coordination is formidable.  There are even abundant irregularities such as punching in on behalf of others and tampering with attendance data without permission. So labourers take the fairness of wage calculations with a grain of salt.  Need for an intelligent and complete attendance solution “At the same time, the human resources department spends at least 10 hours per month sorting out the clock data of nearly a thousand employees to output monthly results reports." "The financial department also demands to settle workers' compensation based on attendance reports. It leads to continuous delays in salary payments. It is urgent to seek an intelligent and complete attendance solution."  The solution Simplify attendance while outputting cloud reports  FaceDeep 3 & CrossChex Cloud can cover the above needs and submit a satisfactory solution to NGC Based on ensuring the attendance management of nearly a thousand labourers, while also meeting the output of centralised visual reports and reducing labour costs, FaceDeep 3 & CrossChex Cloud can cover the above needs and submit a satisfactory solution to NGC.  NGC's site manager said, "Attendance at the construction site is not transparent, and most workers are often worried about whether their salary for the next month will be recorded in their accounts. There has even been chaos in paid attendance, which has brought a lot of trouble to the normal operation of construction." FaceDeep 3, CrossChex Cloud Based on high-precision liveness face detection and dual-camera lenses, FaceDeep 3 can accurately identify workers and complete personal attendance verification under any environmental conditions,  preventing the use of fake faces such as videos and pictures to check in. The CrossChex Cloud implements hierarchical management and designs administrator operation logs to record their action lines, effectively eliminating the unhealthy trend of tampering with records for personal gain. Attendance visualisation reports Integrate through CrosssChex Cloud and SQL DATABASE to synchronise each employee's attendance records NGC's Finance Minister said, "Every month some workers appeal against errors in attendance records, but there is nothing we can do about the large amount of confusing data records."  Integrate through CrosssChex Cloud and SQL DATABASE to synchronise each employee's attendance records, and automatically generate attendance visualisation reports. Real-time updates Administrators and employees can make attendance management transparent by viewing reports at any time.  The cloud system is equipped with shift and schedule management functions that administrators can adjust in real time according to the construction progress. Workers can apply for make-up attendance to achieve flexible management.  Key benefits Convenient and worry-free attendance experience  The efficient attendance system ensures a quick clock-in experience and simplifies the attendance process. Cloud visual reports make it easy to calculate workers' salaries.  Reduced human resource costs  Cloud visual reports make it easy to calculate workers' salaries. For the HR department, there's no longer a need to manually sort out large amounts of attendance data.  Client's quote “The person in charge of NGC said, "The attendance plan tailored by Anviz for us has received unanimous praise from all employees." "It reduced more than 85% of the labour costs spent on worker attendance management and saved the company nearly 60,000 dirhams per month."

“BCD’s solution perfectly fit our scenario. All I needed to hear was ‘we have storage and scalability for the future’. As Suffolk is growing fast and is very land rich, we’re predicting a lot of growth and definitely need scalability,” Tim Forbes, Physical Security Administrator, City of Suffolk, Virginia. Customer overview When a mass shooting in which 12 people died occurred at a municipal building in Virginia Beach in 2019, it served as a wake-up call for nearby Suffolk, a city of around 95,000 people and the largest city in land area in the state of Virginia. As a result, a "crime prevention through environmental design" (CPTED) committee was immediately formed. One of the committee’s key recommendations was to hire a physical security administrator to act as a single point of contact for all security issues. In addition to being tasked with being liaison with Suffolk police, public safety and city leadership, the administrator would be responsible for overseeing security technology, including access control, alarming and cameras. These systems had been installed when the towers went up but were left fully unmanaged After a hire was made, a needs assessment was conducted which quickly determined that the existing security technology infrastructure was poorly functioning or, in some cases, not functioning at all. Many of these systems had been installed when the buildings went up but have been left completely unmanaged since. The number one priority became to construct a security “foundation” at the data centre in Suffolk City Hall. In terms of a video management system, a new backbone was needed to ensure the ability to view all cameras from this central location. The approach Suffolk determined it needed an integration partner that could provide unified technologies and common knowledge around its security parameters. It initiated an RFP process to which it considered four responses. Based upon credentials, years of experience, and other qualifications (including expertise in ticketing and records management), the city selected Integrated Security and Communications (ISC). ISC had, in turn, been partnering with BCD for IP video data infrastructure solutions for several years. In particular, they had jointly worked on several server environment deployments using the company’s high availability, purpose-built appliances and trusted BCD to be the right partner for the city of Suffolk. After extensive evaluation of site requirements and recommendations provided by BCD, the REVOLV Hybrid Hyperconverged Infrastructure (hHCI), DEEPSTOR Lite was determined by all parties to be the optimal solution. The solution Video must be captured and stored at the set frame rate and key, to be admissible in legal proceedings Most video management systems can achieve the video retention requirements and anticipated camera counts for a given application. Yet, each application has city, state and federal requirements that govern the amount of time the video must be retained, the required frame rate, and the required quality of video. Video must be captured and stored at the specified frame rate and resolution, to be admissible in legal proceedings. With a traditional bare metal implementation of a video management system, the archiver or recorder is a physical server. If that server experiences diffculties, or goes offline for an extended period, not only do the cameras stop recording, but the municipality also loses access to all the archived footage on that archiver. The city of Suffolk could not afford to experience a loss of recording, or not have access to the archived footage. The REVOLV DEEPSTOR Lite solution addressed these needs and ensured that cameras were always recording, and the customer always had access to its archived video. DEEPSTOR Lite is ideal for customers new to virtualised environments, providing a scalable solution that can support roughly 1,500 Mbps during a failed node scenario and up to 2,000 Mbps when all nodes are online. REVOLV is a hybrid HCI solution that leverages VMWare technologies to create a cluster of resources and virtualise the archivers to operate within that cluster. The server resources reside within a vSAN implementation on the cluster that acts as a shared resource pool for the servers. In the event of a node failure, the virtual machines that reside on that node will redistribute (vMotion) to the remaining nodes and continue operation. The process REVOLV provides high availability, regardless of the capabilities of the VMS, or access control software The process occurs completely unattended, and in the case of the city of Suffolk, ensured that it would never lose recorded video or be unable to record resources. REVOLV provides high availability, regardless of the capabilities of the VMS, or access control software. Suffolk’s REVOLV installation also utilised powerful GPUs. These GPUs enabled BCD to shift processing power off the appliance CPU, for a smoother display of live and recorded video and the ability to display more HD cameras at the command centre. “We got it all virtualised and it’s down to less than a quarter of a rack between servers, storage and all the networking that was required for it. Now Suffolk is in a high availability, high resiliency environment that eliminates all the pain points it had with five and seven-year-old servers,” Jim Cooper, Vice President of Technology, Integrated Security and Communications (ISC). Implementation The REVOLV system for Suffolk, including the vSAN cluster and all virtual machines, was built and pre-staged in the engineering lab at BCD’s facility in Fresno, CA. Once tested, it was shipped to the Suffolk city hall. BCD’s professional services team made an onsite visit to complete the installation with ISC. By pre-staging, BCD can ensure that the solution is ready for deployment, thus reducing the time spent on-site. Cut-over configuration and stand-up of the new environment were completed in a couple weeks’ time. Thanks to BCD’s expertise and the REVOLV solution, the city of Suffolk now has over 25 site managers and department directors who have a purpose-built, high-availability system that delivers video at their site and at multiple sites in their organisations for years to come. Says Tim Forbes, Physical Security Administrator for the city, “BCD and ISC have been great partners for us. I am 100% happy with everything.” And the scalability that the platform provides? It will be needed sooner rather than later. Three new large sites and three new small sites are already on tap to be integrated into the system.

In today's interconnected world, the lines between physical and digital security are blurring. This means that threats can easily exploit vulnerabilities in both realms, potentially causing significant damage. That's why the convergence of cyber- and physical security systems is becoming increasingly important. It has already been a topic of discussion in the security market for more than a decade. To get a reality check, we asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: Has convergence been achieved in security systems? Why or why not? 

There is a bright outlook for trade shows in 2024. In particular, ISC West has recently become the must-see event in the security marketplace. ISC West will take place April 9-12 at the Venetian Expo in Las Vegas. In addition to providing access to a wide range of technological innovations, the show also serves as a platform to introduce new products and services. As the industry counts down to the big exhibition, we asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: What will be the big news at ISC West 2024?   

There is safety in numbers, or so the expression goes. Generally speaking, several employees working together tend to be safer than a single employee working alone. Even so, some environments require that workers complete their jobs alone, thus presenting a unique combination of security vulnerabilities. The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) defines a lone worker as “an employee working alone, such as in a confined space or isolated location.” We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: How can security technologies help to protect "lone workers?"