Businesses rely on security systems to protect people, assets, and facilities from threats. Security can be as simple as a camera system that picks up and records activities or as complex as a facility-wide, multi-component solution. While property owners can add safety devices individually, many now turn to unified physical security solutions that offer multiple benefits.
What Is a Unified System?
According to security experts at Genetec, “A unified physical security platform is a comprehensive software solution that manages the different components of a security environment through a centralized open architecture built to provide complete access to all data.” Put another way, unified security management resembles a system of pipes. But, instead of water, information flows smoothly through.
Every device can communicate with others, and it is easy to add new components. To put it another way, unified security management resembles a system of pipes. Turning individual systems off is possible, but connections cannot be broken because there aren’t any.
Unified Systems Have Business Value
The data collected by a unified system can be a valuable business asset. Companies can collect information to enhance operations. Businesses are constantly changing and evolving, and as they do, the security information provided by intelligence modules in the platform helps inform decisions.
For example, a license plate recognition system provides the number of vehicles entering properties. That data may be used to improve parking security or alter traffic flow to meet changing needs. A built-in occupancy management module could help companies manage health and safety issues by alerting them when capacity limits are reached.
Training Operators Is More Efficient
When businesses use conventional security measures, personnel must learn to operate each system. But teams manage unified systems from one platform. They need far less training to do a good job, and the learning process is streamlined. There are also select courses operators may take to keep up with changes, which allows them to learn gradually rather than spending long hours taking classes.
Every essential task in the system uses a similar interface. As a result, operating two applications doesn’t take much more skill than operating one. It’s easy for operators to learn how to manage workflows. As a result, they require less supervision, which can save businesses money.
Management and Maintenance Are Streamlined
Even the most basic security system requires maintenance to ensure it remains effective. Maintaining multiple separate systems is cumbersome, but a unified system solves the problem. Because components are blended in a single platform, updating devices and systems is simple.
Since every device is easily managed from one spot, it’s simpler for companies to stay current. Operators can pinpoint each firmware update requirement. That’s a crucial benefit because systems must be up to date to identify and resolve security flaws.
Built-in tools allow companies to identify ways to enhance cyber resilience. A unified view simplifies the process of maintaining an entire security installation. Operators can also quickly access reports that provide device health checks and status.
Security has never been more crucial for businesses, so many businesses now rely on easy-to-maintain unified security systems. The systems are easy for operators to learn and use. Unified systems provide business value, reduce operator training hours, and streamline security maintenance.
