Page 36 - Security Today, September/October 2023

Getting More from Your Data Plan a head start by maximizing your unified physical security information By Charles Pitman Security organizations are sitting on a goldmine of data collected by cameras, VMS, access control systems (ACS), automated license plate recognition (ALPR), intrusion systems and other connected devices. With the rise of analytics, security data can do more than help protect assets or investigate crimes. It can be a core element in the digital transformation of your business processes and operations. Having sufficient data management and structure is key to un- locking the value of this physical security data. Using a unified platform as a foundation is the first step. A unified platform pro- vides access to data from different sources in one central interface to streamline security operations and enhance overall visibility. This data can also be used for other broader business goals. START WITH A UNIFIED SECURITY ENVIRONMENT Security systems often start with video surveillance functions and expand over time to include capabilities, such as access control and ALPR. As security capabilities grow, organizations quickly discover the need to integrate data among systems. For example, they want to share data to manage security policies, monitor events, and run investigations. Ideally, teams want to do so without switching back and forth between systems. Day Of Victory Studio/Shutterstock.com 36 SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2023 | SECURITY TODAY Data integration may start as a collection of systems. But, over time, organizations often find it easier to migrate to one plat- form that is built to handle all their data needs. This requires a shift from siloed, standalone systems to a unified platform. A unified platform provides a complete picture of what is hap- pening across the entire organization at any given moment, all from one interface. Since employees do not have to switch be- tween systems, there is also enhanced functionality and ease of use. Employees gain productivity since they only must learn and use one system to get the information they need. A unified platform makes that data more accessible and easier to explore. For example, if all your “door open” warnings are com- ing from the same three doors, perhaps those sensors need to be adjusted or the locks changed. If you see people pushing through certain doors incorrectly, you could install instructional signage to reduce the number of “open door” alerts and staff responses. Once your organization begins to use an open, unified security platform, you can extend the reach of your data to seamlessly include other non-security systems. Devices or sensors that use a standard data protocol can be integrated with your security plat- form to unify data and highlight opportunities for operational efficiency. This is how your team can begin to realize additional business opportunities through your security system. INTEGRATED SYSTEMS