Veteran Owned Small Business (VOSB) is a company diversity registration designated under the Veteran Benefits, Health Care, and Information Technology Act of 2006 (Public Law 109-461). Registration ensures that companies qualify for preferential procurement for federal contracts if they are owned and controlled by Veterans.
This certification is non-industry specific and requires that the firm meets the small business requirements established by the Small Business Administration (SBA). Additionally, it requires that the company is at least 51% owned, operated and controlled by a veteran.
In PART 1 of this 2-part series, we outlined the Top 9 considerations when selecting a security camera for your facility. But, selecting the right security camera system for your facility can be daunting. With so many choices available and technical factors to consider, it’s easy for customers to feel overwhelmed. While it may be tempting to save money by purchasing and installing cameras on your own, hiring a security consultant can often be the better choice. Here’s why:
Security consultants bring a comprehensive understanding of camera technology and can assess your facility’s specific requirements. For instance, different areas within a facility, such as outdoor lots, high-traffic zones, and low-light corridors, each need a tailored camera type. Consultants evaluate everything from lighting conditions and environmental factors to camera features like resolution and privacy masking, ensuring that the selected cameras are optimal for each unique location. A DIY approach may lead to costly mistakes in camera selection, resulting in ineffective coverage, image quality issues, or unnecessary upgrades later.
Security consultants have deep experience in the industry and know what works in various types of facilities. They stay up-to-date on the latest camera technology, security trends, and best practices, which can be especially valuable as security demands grow and evolve. For example, consultants understand the benefits and limitations of different camera types—fixed vs. PTZ, panoramic vs. conventional lenses—and when to use each for maximum security impact. This expertise helps facilities avoid missteps that could compromise security or lead to additional expenses down the road.
A consultant’s goal is to optimize security within your budget. While DIY purchases can sometimes lead to overspending on high-end features or buying unnecessary equipment, consultants help allocate funds where they will have the most impact. They can advise on balancing high-resolution cameras in key locations with more cost-effective options in low-priority areas, ensuring a strategic allocation of resources. Additionally, consultants are familiar with hidden costs like storage, software licenses, and regular maintenance, allowing them to present a realistic budget that prevents surprise expenses.
Facilities often rely on a variety of security technologies, from access control systems to alarm notifications. Integrating these with a camera system can improve responsiveness and overall security efficiency. Security consultants are skilled at designing systems that incorporate these various technologies seamlessly, enabling smoother operations and quicker responses to potential threats. Without experience in system integration, DIY setups may lack the full functionality or cohesiveness that’s possible when these systems work in tandem.
Many facilities must follow privacy and compliance regulations, especially in areas where privacy is a legal or ethical concern. Security consultants are knowledgeable about these requirements and can design camera systems that balance security with respect for privacy, such as by implementing privacy masking in certain locations. This expertise is particularly important in today’s regulatory environment where NDAA and other regulations can carry hefty implications. Mistakes can lead to fines, legal issues, or reputational damage.
Security needs can evolve, and a system designed to meet today’s standards may need updating tomorrow. Consultants plan for this by designing systems with scalability in mind, ensuring that adding new cameras or upgrading components won’t require a complete system overhaul. They also provide guidance on hardware and software updates, so the system stays effective and relevant as technology advances. DIY buyers often overlook this aspect, resulting in systems that quickly become obsolete.
Setting up a security camera system is more than just mounting cameras and pressing "record." Placement, angle, lighting adjustments, and calibration are all critical to capturing clear, usable footage. Security consultants oversee professional installation, ensuring each camera is strategically positioned for maximum coverage and adjusted correctly for its environment. This professional setup minimizes blind spots and ensures reliable performance.
We haven't even discussed storing the video data yet. Do you need 30 days of storage or 300? Do you need 30 images per second or 10? What is your bandwidth allowance on the IT department's network?
And, what about artificial intelligence-enabled (AI) cameras? Do you need features today like PPE detection or perimeter line crossing detection? Or should you be prepared with devices built for the future?
How about a demonstration or proof of concept? Working with a trusted consulting firm like Theseus can open the door to actually seeing the cameras operate in your environment before you make a purchase. We can coordinate these eye-opening opportunities.
While a DIY approach might seem like an economical choice, the complexities of proper camera selection, configuration, and integration can lead to costly mistakes and ineffective security. By hiring a security consultant, facilities gain access to industry experience, tailored solutions, and long-term cost savings. Consultants deliver more than just a product—they provide expertise, foresight, and a system designed to grow with your facility’s needs, ensuring you have a robust security solution that delivers real peace of mind.
GO to PART 1 of this series >>
Contact us to discuss your security posture >>
We understand the challenges that security professionals face in securing their facilities and creating a safe environment within their budget. We also recognize the difficulty in finding the right resources and expert advice to achieve this mission.
That's why we're excited to announce the release of our considerations guide, designed specifically to help security professionals conduct their own in-house security risk assessment.
This comprehensive guide aims to assist you in identifying any missing or inadequate physical security measures that may compromise the safety and security of your assets, people, property, and critical business functions. While we highly recommend consulting with a third-party expert like Theseus Professional Services in certain cases, this guide will empower you to take a proactive approach to assess and address security risks within your organization.
The findings of a security risk assessment play a vital role in measuring and communicating the level of risk to your organization. By following the guidelines outlined in this guide, you can enhance the overall security of your facility while staying within your budget.
We believe that knowledge is power, and we're committed to providing you with valuable resources to help you achieve your security goals. Download our considerations guide today and take control of your facility's security.
Theseus Team: Nov 14, 2024 8:31:27 AM
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