The days of one-dimensional video security are long gone! Video surveillance technology has come a long way and today’s solutions offer far more than just recording motion. Video security solutions have been digitally transformed to be proactive, not reactive, with features that go beyond simply recording activities of people. Businesses may not be aware of the advantages that a modern video security system can bring. From AI technology and cloud storage to facial recognition capabilities and beyond, there are many ways a comprehensive end-to-end video security system can significantly add value to an organization’s physical security workflows.
So where to start? With a plethora of solutions available in the market, it can be confusing – and overwhelming – to know which upgrades to make that will guarantee maximum security and protection. To ensure that companies are getting the best return on investment, it is important to understand which additions will provide the most benefit and value. What are the primary factors to be considered when exploring a video security solution? What are key trends to know about? And how can they get a better understanding of terms like IP cameras, AI-based applications and thermal radiometry?
As Konica Minolta hits our 150-year milestone this year, we reflect on what it took to get us here, and our customers are at our core. Our mission is to help our customers across all industries achieve growth and success – if there is a need, we fulfill it. When it comes to smart video security, businesses are increasingly recognizing the value of integrating practical detection applications into their camera systems for enhanced safety and data collection. To facilitate them on their journey of better understanding Video Security Solutions, we’ve compiled a list of questions that our own customers have asked. This encompasses those who are just starting out with video security to those looking to transition to the cloud for video management system (VMS) storage, and even those ready to enhance their cameras with various detection applications or AI-based applications – often known as 2nd generation features.
The Customer Mindset
When building a customized video security system for our customers, we always begin by understanding their business needs. Here are some of the most common questions asked, with answers providing a foundational knowledge on the latest Video Security Solutions.
1) What are the three most important things to consider for a comprehensive video security system that works for my facility?
Compatibility: Out with the old, in with the new. It is important to ensure that any new video security solution is compatible with your existing equipment and infrastructure. This includes compatibility with your current cameras, servers and network infrastructure. However, if your system is outdated, don’t hesitate to upgrade or replace it entirely.
Scalability: Think big. Businesses need growth to survive. Consider the future expansion plans for your facility and ensure that the video security solution can scale to meet those needs. This includes the ability to add more cameras, storage, other components, analytics and AI-based applications.
Reliability: Have trust. You must be able to count on your video security system working effectively 24×7. Consider the reliability of the equipment, as well as support services, and whether it’s capturing what you need when you need it. A crucial detail that often gets overlooked? The country of origin for the manufacturer. In light of recent U.S. bans on Chinese-made cameras, country of origin has become an important factor to consider when selecting a Video Security Solution for use in the United States. This also includes any private labeled cameras from China that companies may be marketing as their own. (Konica Minolta cameras are manufactured by MOBOTIX, which is based in Germany.)
2) Technology is evolving at such a rapid pace that it can be challenging to keep up! What are the latest trends right now in video security solutions for businesses?
Cloud-Based Video Security Systems: Transitioning to cloud-based video security solutions offers businesses the ability to access live security footage from any location and enable them to monitor multiple sites at once. Additionally, cloud storage systems are easy to expand and make it simpler for businesses to store video surveillance footage for later viewing.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML): AL and ML can automate Video Security Systems, allowing businesses the ability to take advantage of features such as facial recognition, motion detection and visual inspection. This technology helps businesses detect any suspicious activity quickly and effectively while responding to potential security threats swiftly.
Mobile Video Surveillance: This feature offers businesses an efficient and cost-effective way to strengthen their security, as it enables them to monitor their premises from any location. Mobile communications make it possible for the security team to receive information promptly so they can take action right away.
Wireless Video Surveillance: Wireless video surveillance systems are becoming increasingly popular among businesses. Setting up these systems is a breeze as no wiring is required, granting businesses the convenience of being able to monitor their premises remotely.
4K Security Cameras: A must-have for businesses, 4K security cameras provide the highest level of video footage clarity. By utilizing pan, tilt and zoom (commonly referred to as “PTZ”) capabilities, businesses can get a better view of their premises while enhancing communications between security teams and personnel onsite.
3) What does it really mean for an IP video security camera to be “smart” and how would my business benefit from this?
An IP video security camera is considered a “smart” camera because it increases the efficiency of security operations, making it an attractive choice for businesses of all sizes. IP video security cameras do not require any analog components – such as DVRs – for their operation, as data can be sent and received over standard internet networks. This makes them easy to set up and use.
Additionally, IP cameras can send alerts, detect motion and provide remote access, which adds another layer of security. They have advanced features like facial recognition, wide viewing angles and the ability to store footage in the cloud. IP cameras also require less bandwidth. All these features combine to make IP cameras a smart choice for businesses looking for increased efficiency and improved response times in the event of an emergency.
4) What are the advantages of implementing a Video Management System (VMS)?
Video Management Systems (VMS) are an invaluable asset for businesses requiring complete control over their video surveillance recordings. VMS software allows footage to be monitored, stored and accessed from any location, enabling businesses to quickly analyze the footage and make informed decisions about their security measures.
Easy access to live and recorded video feeds, custom organization of data, extensive camera settings and comprehensive user permissions are all features enabled by VMS software. This grants businesses the flexibility they need to ensure their video footage is secure and accessible from any authorized device.
5) AI seems to be at the forefront of technology these days. How has it impacted the world of video security?
AI has certainly ‘taken the stage,’ appearing in the forefront visible to the general public with applications such as language synthesis – soon to be incorporated into the search engines we use daily (e.g., OpenAI’s ChatGPT*. Google’s Bard, etc.) For video security, the AI in the detection apps brought surveillance a new layer of information enabling better oversight from behavior data that could be used to establish alerts.
Thermal sensors in video surveillance cameras have become a desirable feature for operations that involve heat-sensitive areas and even certain people-counting applications. Fire detection using thermal imaging can provide early warning before the fire is fully engaged, thus making it an invaluable safety tool. While these may sound like ‘specialty’ features, we have seen businesses recognize the value of incorporating these practical detection applications into their cameras for better data and safety information.
GETTING STARTED ON A DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION FOR VIDEO SECURITY
As a leader in video security solutions, we understand our customers’ needs and expectations and can tackle any questions they may have. We provide expertise and insight about the latest camera analytics, AI capabilities and trends in the industry. To make sure businesses get the maximum return on investment from their system, it is important to start with a thorough assessment of existing systems, followed by understanding their needs. With that knowledge, they can prioritize what features are most necessary for their business.
Each year, we work with businesses at various stages of developing their physical security plan assisting them in exploring the latest in technology:
To make sure they are taking full advantage of the latest innovations, businesses should regularly review their video security systems for improved response times and more detailed information for planning purposes. Learn more about Konica Minolta Video Security Solutions.
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