Before beginning the modernization process, businesses need to consider what they want to accomplish with their video surveillance; first and foremost, security. Think about how the organization’s people and property need to be protected, and where the vulnerabilities may be. It’s also important to evaluate existing systems and processes to determine their effectiveness when it comes to forensics, and make sure your video storage is sufficient.
When planning a shift to a new system, it’s critical that employees are on the same page. During the planning process, businesses need to make sure that the roles of IT, building management and security are all clearly outlined. These groups must be able to work together and communicate to successfully implement a modern video surveillance system. Once all of this is complete, these new responsibilities and processes must be documented for reference and accountability.
Phase 2: Plan Infrastructure That Meets the System’s Needs
Once a plan has been agreed upon, the next step is to turn to existing infrastructure. For IT, this means looking at both on-premises and cloud options for video storage. Data storage must be adjusted to accommodate whatever new policies are being put into place. Networking connections must also be assessed to ensure that any new assets can be securely connected to the system.
Most important, that architecture needs to be able to support the agreed-upon video management software. The VMS needs to be integrated with various access control and visitor management solutions, as well as the hardware that will be installed.
MORE FROM BIZTECH: Learn how to expand the value of your physical security system.
Speaking of hardware, it would be beneficial to evaluate any legacy tools before procuring new equipment. Determine which assets can be integrated into the new VMS, and what would still work within the new surveillance strategy. Once that’s complete, select any new cameras needed and decide where they should be placed for optimal efficiency.
Phase 3: Deploy Surveillance Tools and Integrate Your Systems
Once a plan is in place and the necessary supporting infrastructure is ready, it’s time to begin deploying the new system. Businesses should run any necessary cabling and networking to power security assets, and provision the needed storage for the video feeds that will be coming into the VMS.
This is also the time to position cameras, ensuring optimal visibility into vulnerable areas. These cameras need to be integrated into the VMS, configured with the proper triggers and protected by the necessary cybersecurity tools at the network’s edge.
The VMS itself also needs to be configured. Make sure it has the proper policies and notifications to give managers the visibility they need. It also should be integrated not only with the security assets, but also with access control and visitor management systems.
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