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Future-Proofing Security System Investments
October 18, 2011
Flexibility Cuts Cost of Upgrades and Expansions
By Harry Ferguson
Few technologies employed in modern buildings change as quickly as the various security systems that protect the building and its occupants. Driven by the fast-paced change in electronics generally and unrestrained by the many codes and standards that govern the fire alarm industry, for example, security systems are constantly being updated by their manufacturers, and new and updated systems are continually entering the marketplace.
These factors put intense pressure on the decision makers charged with selecting new security systems for their properties, and greatly increase the risk of premature obsolescence of a major financial investment. Mistakes can have a significant impact on operating costs and capital budgets, as operating staff cope with aging, inflexible systems and/or frequent requirements for major updates.
Choices during the specification and system selection stage can better ensure the maximum life of the investment. To begin, good system design creates an optimum balance of security and usability for the building. That means selecting systems and sizing them correctly, with proper consideration for expected growth or changes in tenants and occupants.
INTERCONNECTEDNESS ENSURES COMPETITIVENESS
Open platforms and open protocols enable systems developed by different manufacturers to communicate and work closely with each other, but there are still many systems on the market that don’t have this flexibility. Investors should avoid proprietary or single-sourced equipment wherever possible since integrated security systems generally offer better information and control with reduced operating costs and management time.
It’s easier and more cost-effective to upgrade or add on to the original system when there are options to choose from various interconnected systems. Systems should also be open and accessible – free of any installer lock-codes or restraints – with all passwords and keys provided to building management to ensure complete flexibility in choosing an installation or service company.
Consideration should be given to the size and history of the operating unit providing the security system. A large installed base of a particular system is a good indicator that there will be ongoing resources to support its customer base, even if the company is acquired by another.
Commercial buildings are dynamic with evolving operation and security requirements. Requirements for updates, add-ons, enhancements and service calls will be inevitable and competition among service providers should result in better service and lower costs. Investors are sometimes pushed to replace equipment early because they are dissatisfied with the service integrator rather than the system itself, which is another drawback of choosing a less common system. Of course, it’s also essential to check references, and evaluate installation experience and customer feedback before contracting any integrator.
SCALABILITY AND INFRASTRUCTURE FOR GROWTH
Excess capacity that remains unused is a wasted investment, but inadequate planning for growth can also have major cost consequences if a system has to be replaced. Although there is no single solution that serves very small and very large applications equally well, some systems are more scalable than others.
Assessing potential future requirements, such as the number of controlled doors or number of recorded cameras, makes it easier to accommodate growth. Notably, managers of multi-tenanted office towers frequently deal with demands for increased security. A small upfront premium for scalability allows for those additional readers and cameras.
IP (Internet Protocol) is now the de-facto standard for most new installations, primarily because it simplifies both initial installation and future expansions and reconfigurations of system hardware. Instead of running dedicated cabling to new areas of the building, new devices can be attached to the closest point of the network, and configuration changes are handled in software.
In video, this technology allows for very easy expansion of the video recorders, providing additional capacity as needed, and is the requisite platform for the growing number of IP-compatible cameras, including the high-definition megapixel cameras that are becoming so popular. Existing analog systems can also be married to a new IP system, providing an easy transition.
Wiring and conduit installation represents a significant component of the total installed system cost for both new systems and expansions to existing systems. Renovation and/or new construction projects are an opportunity to pre-wire for future requirements, reducing the expense of later expansions.
MAINTENANCE DILIGENCE
Maintenance plans can provide real returns for investors. Manufacturers are continually providing upgrades to improve system reliability and performance, and even correct serious deficiencies or software bugs. Taking advantage of these upgrades and fixes provides easier operation, better control and reduced operating costs, while failing to install suppliers’ latest corrections and updates for system deficiencies could create liability exposure.
Maintenance agreements build predetermined system support costs into the operating budget so there are no nasty surprises when something breaks. Ultimately, the maintenance plan isn’t just protecting the security systems. It protects the systems that protect the building and its occupants.
Harry Ferguson is Vice-President and General Manager at Bond Securcom Inc., a Toronto-based security systems integrator, designing and supplying integrated access control, video and emergency communications systems to the commercial, institutional and industrial marketplace. For more information, see the web site at www.bondsecur.com
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