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Video surveillance systems have, for years, been excellent tools to protect the safety of your staff and your clients. Updates in technology have served to make them more effective and less expensive at the same time. Newer video systems have capabilities that were only dreamed of in the past. Is it time to update your video surveillance system? Keep these developments in mind:
1. Many sectors need a video surveillance update
The publication Business Systems reports that 80% of hospitals, for instance, need to update their video surveillance systems. These systems can help organizations cut their liability in cases like slip and fall accidents. They can also significantly extend the capabilities of overstretched nursing staff; video cameras can capture events when it is not possible for an individual to be in the room. Other industries with similar liabilities and risks can mitigate them through the use of video surveillance. Newer technology and lower prices mean that you can afford to provide more coverage throughout your buildings to keep a better eye on what is going on.
2. Analog is out; IP is in
Still using analog tapes for your security footage? Experts report that the tipping point has come and that IP cameras are now the more common option, and with good reason. IP cameras that send surveillance video to digital storage offers the ability to store far more footage. These cameras are far easier to place in your facility than older, bulkier models. They offer much higher resolutions, with high definition cameras becoming far more affordable. These can be much more useful if there is a need to identify someone in the face of an act of theft, violence or another security issue.
3. Biometrics and smart cameras will play a bigger part
Instead of an individual buzzing in personnel, what if the camera could recognize an individual and provide access? Face recognition has long been used to identify criminals; now, it can also be used for tasks like access control in your buildings.
New cameras with intelligence embedded will be able to offer analytics that can be used not just for security but for business purposes. For instance, a system can help you analyze foot traffic into a business during specific times of day.
4. There will be a strong focus on cyber security
With the growth of the internet of things and a large number of recent high-profile cyber incursions, security of the data that is collected will be as important as the physical security in the building. To ensure that your clients and staff continue to enjoy privacy and safety, it is vital that the data from your cameras be well-secured. Experts in the field recommend keeping up to date on cyber security issues, such as newly discovered vulnerabilities in operating systems and commonly used software. By attending to these, you can reduce the chances that your video will be improperly accessed.
Video camera technology continues to improve, offering more to concerned facility runners and business owners at a lower cost than ever. Look into the latest upgrades available for your video surveillance system to ensure that you are offering the best possible protection to the people who work for you and the people who come to your location.