by Karl Pardoe, Regional Sales Manager UK & Ireland at March Networks
A key component of any building project is security. Using contemporary surveillance systems not only protects against unnecessary losses through fraud or theft, they can also enhance operations, nurture occupier brands through the delivery of a satisfying experience for customers or visitors and increase profits significantly.
A major advantage is that rather than relying on CCTV to reactively provide evidence of a crime, new generation, fully networked and remotely accessible solutions deliver real-time video and data to facilities and security managers.
Safety of building users is top of the agenda and the combination of cameras and browser-based client software enables instant notification if a dangerous situation is developing, allowing incidents to be dealt with instantly. Security analytics provide information on suspicious events including unauthorised access and loitering. A virtual tripwire (enabled by carefully positioned cameras) placed across a ‘private’ door, for example, will trigger an alert every time it’s crossed.
Operationally, the software can deliver vital information such as the number of customers or visitors entering the premises; and activity around the key points of interest, eg. reception, meeting rooms and key offices. It can also determine the busiest times of day for receptionists, alerting managers to increase staff numbers, and show levels of cleanliness or appearance, all of which helps to ensure the best service to customers and visitors.
The right solution
It must be straightforward to install, simple to use and demand little in maintenance. Modern video surveillance solutions work on existing IP networks and integrate easily with other systems. The same real-time data and business intelligence is applicable whether the building is small or large.
Specialist installers will work with designers and builders to specify the number, type and position of the cameras and identify the most suitable Network Video Recorder (NVR). Smaller premises will find that four to eight channels (e.g. the number of cameras feeding live video to NVR’s) will be more than sufficient, whilst larger ones can select up to 32 channels, positioned internally and on the perimeter of the premises. The software managing the links between cameras and transactional systems is easy to use so security staff or managers will need minimal training.
Case study – Serlachius Museum, Finland.
Housed in a sleek wood and glass building, Serlachius Museum boasts three exhibition spaces to house a valuable art collection, restaurant, festival hall, and spacious museum shop.
A local security systems integrator recommended and installed a March Networks video surveillance solution, powered by the company’s Command Professional video management software. Video is recorded from approximately 90 cameras, capturing crystal-clear images 24 hours a day with bullet cameras covering the surrounding area and carpark. The integrator also worked with a local fabricator to design and manufacture special brackets and camera housings to sensitively blend with the architecture of the building.
Authorised museum employees can watch live or archived video on their workstations using March Networks’ browser-based Command client.
“The system gives our customer service personnel awareness of where our visitors are in the museum, and in the event of a theft, vandalism or other incident, it provides solid evidence of what happened,” said Julia Roponen, Gösta Serlachius Art Foundation CFO.
