Page 16 - Security Today, July/August 2024

tect against various threats and require a strategic approach to create a holistic solution. For example, while it is important to vet visitors to the property and avoid potential theft or violence, in- ternal theft can also be a concern at offices or retail outlets. On the other hand, residents and tenants of the property should not feel like they are living under military rule and be able to live comfortably within the space.
To accomplish this, property managers can use different types of security solutions such as remote guarding systems (e.g., Elite Interactive Solutions, a leader in the field), access control tools and human security professionals on site to make important deci- sions about the system’s functionality.
PLAN FOR THE UNKNOWN
Property managers need to remain aware that, by today’s stan- dards of what advanced technologies and tactics have made pos- sible, many legacy “solutions” are intrinsically limited. The harsh reality is that traditional means of securing multi-dwelling resi- dential communities often just do not work.
Security guards are not only expensive but are inherently lim- ited in their coverage and effectiveness. And while access control systems can control parking and building access, such systems are easily thwarted by tailgating. Even video surveillance cameras are no longer as effective these days with criminals realizing they are purely reactive solutions that are often not actively monitored or even recorded.
After a security system has been chosen and installed, it is im- portant to plan for any unexpected issues that may come up. Ide- ally, your security providers will do a thorough consultation and risk assessment, customized to the unique needs of your facility. This step can ensure the new system will integrate well into the rest of the building’s systems.
Security technology is changing constantly, and there is a high likelihood that property managers or even onsite security manag- ers may be unfamiliar with some innovations. Make sure build- ing staff are trained properly and feel comfortable using the new security system once it is ready to go.
UNDERSTAND YOUR TOTAL SECURITY COSTS
A property’s security system should protect against various kinds of criminal activity that lead to costs for property managers. Theft, vandalism and violence are just a few ways costs can add up when security is not doing its job. Property managers also need to balance their needs for quality with security systems that make financial sense to install.
For example, it does not make sense to spend money on hun- dreds of surveillance cameras when only a handful will do the job just as well. If properly configured and optimized, as a proven remote guarding solution should be, where it comes to equipment often less can be more.
Contact a skilled security company that can help design an effective and efficient solution for property managers looking for additional design expertise. Make sure to use a consultant that is not incentivized to sell you a bunch of equipment. Their focus
“Monitored by skilled agents, these perimeter-focused, video-based systems are forensically deployed onsite and leverage advanced AI and analytics to stop virtually all criminal activities on a given site. This solution is commonly referred to as remote guarding.”
should be on creating the most effective and efficient system pos- sible based on your property’s unique needs and vulnerabilities.
Understand the pros and cons of different options, such as the fact that human guards can cost about $6,500 a month whereas a more effective and efficient remote guarding alternative (which can augment as a force multiplier or serve as a replacement) is typically less than half that expense.
MAKE A SMART INVESTMENT
A great security system will also double as a smart investment in the long run. Innovative security technology and solutions can increase the marketability of a building and become the deciding factor for potential tenants considering other options. Tools such as access control can even connect with other building systems to use utilities such as air conditioning more efficiently, helping save money on utility costs.
However, it is critical to never sacrifice a security system’s ef- fectiveness to improve ROI. Providing the safest environment possible should be the top priority for all property and building managers.
Remote video guarding combines advanced AI-driven video technologies with highly trained security workforce to reduce your security spend while dramatically improving tenant safety. This solution can not only eliminate the need for onsite security guards but can also help prevent unbudgeted expenses that can be attributed to lack of security, such as broken windows, damaged gates/doors, and vandalized property.
When vetting remote guarding providers, realize that not all providers are the same. Look for those that offer real-time, live voice-downs to sites (as opposed to prerecorded messages), are known to have eliminated false alarms (via sophisticated noise reduction techniques) and have developed priority response re- lationships with law enforcement. Seek those with track records demonstrating their experienced design and monitoring capa- bilities evidenced by successful deployments
and satisfied customers.
Scott Goldfine is an industry Hall of Famer with more than 25 years of experience. He serves as marketing director at Elite Interactive Solutions at eliteisi.com.
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JULY/AUGUST 2024 | SECURITY TODAY
REMOTE GUARDING