It’s no secret that video surveillance technology has come a long way since the first closed-circuit cameras were installed in convenience store parking lots. As times have changed, so too have the security concerns of businesses, both small and large. With the advent of mobile technology, it is now possible to monitor surveillance video from a remote location via smartphone. This is one of the many perks that come with making the right security investment for your company, and now is the time to do it.  

According to the Video Surveillance Market Outlook Global Trends Forecast, the global  surveillance market is expected to grow at a rate of 18.2% over the course of the next 6 years. This growth can be attributed to an increase in crime rates, smartphone integration, security concerns, and an effort by employers to instill a sense of safety in a valued workforce. Video surveillance is a much needed asset to your growing business, but one that must be implemented correctly to avoid excessive repair costs.

While many businesses will jump at the most affordable offer, it’s important to note that a video surveillance system is only as effective as the trained professionals who monitor it. While security threats vary depending on company size and location, the most important aspect of a reliable video surveillance system is how its components work together. As we can attest from experience, one size does not fit all and because of this, it’s important to map out the scope of the business while identifying any trouble areas along the way. The idea is to design a system whose long-term value is greater than the sum of its parts, and with that in mind, here are 5 important questions to ask before choosing the right video surveillance system for your business:

  1. Do the cameras need to be out of plain sight or will they be acting as a visual deterrent? Box cameras are more obvious to see, whereas domed cameras will not be as noticeable to intruders.  
  1. How much image clarity do you need for monitoring purposes? Wide areas typically require higher resolution to accommodate zooming in, whereas smaller offices can be viewed through low-resolution cameras.
  1. Will you have a need to add more cameras in the future? If scalability is a determining factor, make sure you select an IP system that enables the addition of extra cameras at a low cost.
  1. What parts of your business could benefit from video surveillance? You might be interested in seeing how customers move through your business, and that will influence the setup and angle of cameras.
  1. How would you like the video footage stored? It’s important to know where the video is stored (on-site or in the cloud) and to ensure that it’s secure from hackers and other data thieves.

The design and installation of an advanced video surveillance system takes the time and effort that only a group of trained professionals can provide. At GMS Communications, we bring over 30 years of telecommunications and securities experience to all of our work, especially when it comes to protecting the assets of our clientele. If you’re interested in learning more about a video surveillance system that will suit the specific needs of your business, contact us today.