5 Top Points for Choosing
Video Surveillance for SMB Owner
Video surveillance innovations have
changed the landscape for users in the SMB (Small, Medium-sized Businesses)
market in India. Improved security, reduced liability and peace of mind, along
with useable video for real-time monitoring, Mobile Surveillance and forensic
investigations, are some of the benefits now available to the SMB.
Following are top 5 points
every SMB owner should be aware of when upgrading or implementing new video
surveillance systems / CCTV surveillance systems.
Quality – One key to
a successful system is the quality of the image. New high definition (HD/AHD)
and megapixel IP cameras capture images in great detail, enabling the SMB owner
to more effectively protect people and assets. Improvements in camera
technology such as wide dynamic range (WDR), digital signal processing (DSP),
and increased signal to noise ratios have helped create cleaner images with
stable operation, allowing their use over a wide range of environmental
conditions. State of the art technology enables low-light operation,
outstanding 30 FPS quality and high standards with minimal maintenance.
Wide Selection /
Functionality – CCTV cameras
come in all shapes and sizes, in all price ranges with a multitude of features.
It’s important that you know what you want to accomplish with the camera and
not be influenced by bells and whistles. Cameras are available for indoor and
outdoor applications, in dome or box configurations, and with or without audio
capability. Network cameras can be accessed remotely, moved anywhere on an IP
network and conveniently powered via Power over Ethernet (PoE). Digital
technology has also enhanced the feature set of cameras with new and exciting
capabilities. Advanced features include motion detection that can analyze video
and respond automatically with actions such as tripping an alarm or initiating
recording, freeing personnel from the need for constant monitoring. Image
processing digitally removes ambient fog, haze or smoke to create the clearest
picture. Other features include on-board recording to SD card, network failure
detection, privacy mask and a variety of built-in video analytics features
including active tampering detection and audio detect.
System Integration – One of the
most compelling reasons for SMBs to consider new video surveillance
technologies is the improved system integration capability. Open architecture
and industry standards such as ONVIF, PSIA and H.264 have helped eliminate
challenges once faced in designing a system. Now, best of breed designs can be
put together to minimize financial impact while meeting security requirements
with best available technology. Hybrid solutions further help preserve
investments in infrastructure by deferring or eliminating the need to rip and
replace systems that are still useful and functional. Additionally, the growing
availability of integrated solutions like recorders with built-in software
control and management capabilities enables the implementation of high
performance, multi-camera HD systems with exceptional functionality,
cost-efficiency and scalability.
Multi-Purpose Uses– New
systems can offer the SMB options beyond video surveillance for improving
business operations. For instance, video can be used to monitor daily
operations and employee productivity. Not only can weaknesses or
non-conformance issues be identified but the video system can be used to
instruct the proper procedures. In retail environments, cameras can be
integrated with point of sale (POS) systems to help with loss prevention.
Video images can also be used to review consumer traffic patterns to assist the
SMB owner in realizing optimum store layouts. The quality and reliability of
the system makes the possibilities endless.
Technology Partners– SMBs may
not have the staff or specific expertise and experience necessary to determine
the kinds of products that will solve their particular issues, or to evaluate
those products in order to choose the right one for the organization. By
partnering with a trusted integrator who has knowledge and understanding of the
systems, the SMB owner can better protect the value of the investment and help
to ensure on-going satisfaction with the system.
The video surveillance playbook for
SMBs has changed by becoming both more complex and more compelling. Taking the
time to research and understand will help to make the decision process
easier.