Finding the Right Security Cameras for Your Business
Security is an integral component of an organization’s success. For your business to achieve its full potential, all the assets, employees, and customers must be safe. Today, advancements in surveillance technology make it easy for organizations to enhance onsite security and threat response by installing security cameras.
Modern security systems come with advanced features such as motion sensors, ability to contact law enforcement, and mobile notifications. Such levels of security were only accessible to large corporations in years past. However, due to increased affordability, small businesses can now enjoy the same level of security.
Some of the benefits you will enjoy from a business security camera system include:
- Makes you premise safer as they discourage theft or attacks
- Assist with monitoring operations
- Discourage employee theft
- Helps ascertain the order of events in case something happens
- Can help lower insurance costs
The benefits of CCTV cameras go well beyond security and they will undoubtedly be an invaluable addition for your business. However, before you rush out to buy cameras, there are some things one should consider when installing business security cameras.
1. Purpose of the Cameras
There are many reasons a business can install a CCTV system and such objectives determine the best type of cameras to use. If you want a system that acts as deterrent for theft, box cameras are perfect as they are large thus ensuring people know they are being monitored.
For organizations that want a more discreet system, dome cameras are a suitable option. They are not easily noticeable due to their half spherical shape and small size. Depending on the nature of business and your premise, you may require cameras that allow you to monitor large spaces and track the movement of individuals. In this regard, Pan Tilt Zoom (PTZ) cameras are the more suitable option.
2. Where Will the Cameras be Used?
Are you installing cameras to monitor activities inside the premise or you want them outside at the entrance? Though many cameras can function in a wide range of settings, it is best to choose cameras that are specifically designed for that type of setting.
Consider whether the cameras will be exposed to unique or extreme conditions such as low temperatures, vibrations, industrial elements, and greases or spills. When exposed to low temperatures, some cameras may fail to start up or operate efficiently. Therefore, for outdoor cameras, it is best to choose models with inbuilt heaters. Housing will also be necessary for protection against other elements.
For the transport sector and delivery businesses, ideal cameras should be able to withstand vibrations and continue to offer uninterrupted surveillance.
3. Clarity of Video Required
In terms of picture quality you have the option of low resolution security cameras or those that offer high-quality images along with advanced features. The latter is certainly an alluring proposition but may not always be necessary. Before settling on a camera ensure that the resolution is appropriate for its intended purpose.
If you are monitoring a small space such as an office, a low resolution camera will do just fine. However, for large areas or in places where you may need to zoom in, high resolution cameras are necessary to ensure image quality is not compromised.
4. Scalability
As your business grows, you will need to add more cameras to your security system. Therefore, it is crucial that the system is installed offers you the flexibility to scale up as needed. However, this will be challenging if you opt for a traditional CCTV system that relies on a closed circuit.
Modern systems are better as the business security cameras are connected via a wireless network. This makes it easy to increase your surveillance capacity as your business grows.
5. Smartphone Compatibility
The knowledge of what is going on in your business is one of the main benefits of a CCTV security system. To give clients even greater control especially during off hours and while away, security companies are now offering real-time streaming of footage via smartphones. This is accompanied by text alerts whenever there is a security concern.
Make sure your security company offers smartphone compatibility so that you can enjoy the added peace of mind with remote surveillance.
6. Lighting Conditions
Lighting conditions vary from one place to the next and at different times of the year and day. Such variations can affect the quality of images produced by CCTV cameras. This is especially so for outdoor cameras. Therefore, it is crucial to choose cameras that can provide clear images at all times with the lighting conditions at the intended location.
Additionally, consider factors such as light sources nearby and reflections from windows or the floors that can affect the image quality when positioning cameras.
7. Will You Need Audio?
At times ascertaining whether there is a threat can be challenging even if there are security cameras. In such situations, a surveillance system with audio capabilities is very beneficial. Your security team will be able to hear what is going on and if need be, speak with the individuals involved and avert the threat.
This not only allows them to identify and resolve threats faster but also to do so at a safe distance.
8. Do You Need Video Management System Analytics?
There is only so much time security personnel can remain focused on monitoring the feed from business security cameras. If you want constant monitoring of footage, you will need a video management system that has analytics capabilities.
Such a system uses motion detection and complex algorithms that can help assess threats or gather information that can be used to make the business more profitable. For instance, by keeping tabs on the number of people coming in at different times, a business can determine the best times to run promotions to boost sales.
Support Is Key
In order to reap maximum benefits from your security system, it is vital that your security company is reliable and always present to address any concerns. TC Tech Systems is a company offers technology solutions to facilitate business communication and surveillance. Get in touch with us today for reliable business security camera installation.