How to Choose a Video Surveillance System for Your Business

Summary: The difference between the video surveillance systems is the ability to pick the solution that best suits your business. The reason behind this is that open systems provide the option of mixing camera brands with ease, as well as expansion in the long run, whereas closed systems tie one down to a single vendor of choice and tend to charge a subscription fee to remain operational. Based on your space, budget, image quality requirements, and future developmental plans, you can make a decision on which setup will provide the most effective long-term value. This guide dissects the most important features, prices, compatibility, and maintenance to assist in investing in a system that makes your business secure without many redundant limitations.

It may be hard to pick the appropriate video surveillance system to use in your business since there are numerous solutions in the market. The initial move you will be making is the choice of either an open system or a closed system to support its equipment or support different brands and work with other brands. Open systems allow you to combine cameras and recorders of different brands, and this can be useful when you require them to be flexible. Closed systems are simpler to install, including Verkada or Alarm.com, which have their drawbacks. Failure to give them the fees they require will lead to the cameras simply ceasing to work and making your investment dead hardware. It is the reason why they are called by many names, such as Hostage-as-a-Service.

How To Select a Video Surveillance System For Your Business

The right system depends on what the market offers and what each option provides.

1. Know the Types of Video Surveillance Systems

• Open Systems: The cameras and recorders can be of different brands and are usually as long as they are compliant with ONVIF. This is acceptable when you wish to increase or require certain features of different brands. They offer flexible solutions and expect your system to grow with your business.
• Closed Systems: Closed work with devices of the same manufacturer. They usually impose compulsory subscriptions. Otherwise, the system will break down when you do not pay. Such a system may be simple to install, and it may limit your choices. 

2. Consider Your Business Needs

• Size of Your Store: Smaller businesses may need only a few cameras. Larger spaces require higher coverage and storage.
• Coverage Area: Determine the areas that you have to cover, be it outdoors, indoors, or both. This influences the kind and quantity of cameras required.
• Quality: There is better clarity of the images captured with higher resolution cameras, and this comes in handy to identify a person or a car. Choose either 2 megapixels (2MP) and 4KHD (8 MP) or higher according to your need.

3. Check System Features

• Remote Monitoring: Many systems let you view live feeds through mobile applications or through the Internet. This will enable you to check on your store anywhere.
• Storage Options: Choose between local NVR storage or cloud storage. Cloud storage is remote access with possible additional charges.
• Expandability: Plan for the future. Select a system that allows for expansion. The scalability of open systems is normally better.

4. Review Costs and Budget

• Initial Costs: Open systems may cost more upfront, but offer greater flexibility. Closed systems might be less expensive in the short run, but might be more expensive in the long run.
• Recurring Fees: Closed systems often include monthly fees in terms of services and support. Your cameras might be turned off in the event you cease paying.
• Maintenance and Support: Inquire about the maintenance requirements of every system. Customer service is also essential. Secure Interoperability and Integrity.

5. Ensure Compatibility and Integration

• Integrate with Existing Systems: If you already have security systems, make sure that the new system is compatible.
• Future-Proofing: Things are evolving rapidly. New technologies are normally more compatible with open systems, which helps to avoid stagnation with outdated equipment.

Considerations When Selecting a Security Camera System

When choosing an enterprise security camera system for your business, consider your options carefully. There are two main types of video surveillance systems: “open” and “closed.”

• Open Systems: These systems are flexible. Cameras and recorders of other manufacturers can be used. This is the best option when what you want is the freedom to add or modify equipment in the future. Open systems are compatible with the current security installations and offer better alternatives.
• Closed Systems: They are systems such as Verkada or Alarm.com that only support their own equipment. These are simple to install, but there is a drawback. With the discontinuation of the fee, there is a possibility of the cameras being closed down and becoming useless bricks. This is commonly referred to as Hostage-as-a-Service.

When choosing a video surveillance system to use in your business, consider your long-term requirements. Consider how big your store should be, the amount of money you have, and whether you are flexible. 

Maintenance and Support Options for Video Surveillance Systems

Maintenance is key for both open and closed video surveillance services. Here’s what to consider:

• Software Updates: Open systems often require regular software updates. Ensure that your provider provides them to maintain a smooth-running system.
• Customer Support: Closed systems usually offer specialized support at additional cost. See what you can buy in your plan.
• Periodic Hardware Cleaning: The equipment and cameras must be cleaned and checked on a regular basis to prevent performance problems. Arrange continuous maintenance.

A well-maintained and supported system would make your small business security camera system reliable and effective, and in line with business video surveillance best practices.

Secure Your Business with Resolute Partners

We are able to offer a variety of services, such as video surveillance, wireless network solutions, and IoT integration services to secure your store. Our professionals will collaborate with you to develop a unique security system that suits your requirements and finances. You may require a basic system or a solution that is all-inclusive to ensure that your business is safe. Don’t play your security by chance.

Call Resolute Partners and see what we have to offer you in terms of services and how we can assist you in adopting the best practices in retail store security. We will assist you in ensuring your business is safe and sound.

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Michael Blanco

Michael S. Blanco is the Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder of Resolute Partners, LLC, where he leads strategic initiatives across various divisions. After owning family entertainment centers in New England, he co-founded Resolute Partners in 1996, launching the first Internet cafés for the U.S. Navy and partnering with AT&T for global deployment. A pioneer in wireless communications, Michael has expanded the company’s focus to include Energy Management/IoT, Cybersecurity, and Managed Video Security. He holds a degree from the Rochester Institute of Technology.