- May 16, 2019
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- Category:Surveillance Camera and Access Control
Getting a New Security Camera System Does Not Have To Be Difficult
Changes to business security bring with them a unique set of considerations
It is vital to have a comprehensive plan for rolling out a new security camera system. Even though they are relatively low-maintenance and straightforward, new security camera systems will often show better results if everyone in the organization is on the same page from the get-go. Once the security camera installers have done their part and gotten your system up and running, it becomes your job to make sure that everyone knows what they need to about your new security cameras.
If you’re in the process of rolling out a new security camera system, here are some of our top tips for ensuring a smooth and successful transition.
- Have clearly identified goals for your new security camera system.
If you’ve done your homework prior to getting a security camera system installed, you probably already have a good understanding of your company’s security needs. However, it can make the implementation period a lot smoother if you have a succinct way of describing your goals for the new surveillance camera system.
Having clearly articulated goals helps make sure that everyone in your company understands why you have a new system and may be updating security protocols. This can cut down on confusion and frustration for both security staff and other employees during the process, making everyone more receptive to any changes the new security camera system might bring. If you have any lingering questions about how the security camera system you have will help you achieve your security goals, be sure to check with the camera installation company you used. Professional security camera installation companies will be able to help you understand the unique aspects of your system that make it an ideal match for your goals.
- Identify key security team members who will interact with the system.
This one is a bit of a two-part tip. You need to start by identifying who all of the key employees are that will be interacting with the security camera system, either by watching cameras, performing maintenance, interacting with the installation company, or performing other related duties. Once you’ve identified those individuals, you then need to clearly delineate what each person’s role is and what the expectations are for them. Without this step, there may be confusion down the line about who is responsible for what in relation to the surveillance cameras.
- Create a proactive plan for dealing with technical difficulties.
Any time you roll out new technology, there are bound to be some hiccups along the way. Having a proactive plan in place for dealing with any unexpected technical difficulties will make everybody’s lives easier and will ensure that any issues can be quickly resolved. The security camera installation company that did the initial install will likely provide you with some basic guidance about troubleshooting and what to do if you experience any technical difficulties, but there are some additional steps you can proactively take to head off any issues. As part of your plan, identify who on your internal staff will be responsible for helping to troubleshoot issues with the new system. You should also make a point of discussing the plan with your security camera installation company, as they may have additional tips and strategies they can share with that person or team of people. Plus, if there is a more significant issue, you’ll likely be turning to the security camera installer to assist with fixing it, so it makes sense to keep them in the loop about who they will work with should the need arise.
Things to consider when you’re developing your plan might include software glitches, cameras going offline, storage problems with the camera footage, difficulty maneuvering PTZ cameras, or cameras shifting or being bumped in such a way that they no longer capture the appropriate view. There are numerous other minor problems or questions that might arise for your new system. This is the time that you will value your security installation company the most. They should be there to set your mind at ease and deal with the problems either remotely, if possible, or they can make a service call to assist you. In many situations, the installer can show the key point person how to fix the issue.
- Develop a communication strategy for all parties who may be impacted by the new security camera system.
Developing a communication strategy for security staff, other employees, and clients (if appropriate) will serve you well in the initial roll-out and beyond. Think about what information each group of people needs to know. For example, general employees are unlikely to need to know regular updates about the status of the security camera system and how it is being used. They might only need to know high-level information about the fact that the cameras have been installed and the goals for their usage. Similarly, clients and customers may or may not need to know anything at all about the cameras. Be thoughtful about what information actually makes sense to share with different groups of people and then clarify a process for how you will share that information (e.g., email, company newsletter, bulletin board, etc.).
Conclusion
A professional business security camera system is a powerful tool for deterring crime at your company. Having a thoughtful plan for rolling out your new security camera system will help make the transition go smoothly for everyone involved so that you can start getting maximum benefit from your cameras right away. Once the cameras have been installed, remember to clarify the goals for your new security cameras, identify staff roles, create a proactive troubleshooting plan, and develop a communication strategy for everyone involved with the company.
Keeping those four tips in mind will help you to avoid making any unintentional mistakes with your security camera system that diminish the benefits it offers. With a little planning and foresight, rolling out a new business security camera system can be an exciting and hassle-free process, and you’ll be reaping the rewards of your new system in no time!
About the Author
As datanet IT, our experts specialize in working with clients to design tailored security solutions. If you want more information on the business security camera systems that we offer, feel free to reach out to us today. We’re happy to work with you to ensure your company is protected! If you wish to be contacted about a security camera install, please fill out this form.