Articles

NFPA Division Manager for Building and Life Safety Codes Robert Solomon discusses what's in store for the fire/life-safety market in SSI's 2012 Industry Forecast.

More than 25 of the most prominent people in the industry rendered a deep and sweeping portrait of the impending security landscape for SSI's 2012 Industry Forecast. Here, Tammee Thompson, vice president and general manager of Global Security & Fire, Johnson Controls, addresses the most significant challenges, changes and opportunities the industry will possibly face in 2012.

What does 2012 hold in store for your business and the industry? Find out with the many insights offered in SSI's annual Industry Forecast, which is featured in our January issue. Here, PSA Security Network President and CEO Bill Bozeman shares his thoughts on what the electronic security industry can expect this year.

New advances in wireless technologies are allowing integrators to broaden their market potential beyond traditional video surveillance applications. Getting the proper training and education now will go a long way toward beating the competition to the punch.

Siemens recently launched a new Fire Safety and Security (FSS) unit following the merger of its fire and security businesses. In creating the new unit, Siemens said the move came at the request of its customers for more integrated and intelligent solutions. Bob Suermann, who was appointed business unit head, discusses FSS and other industry matters.

For those who are concerned about competition, it's particularly irritating when that competition comes from someone you have introduced to the subscriber. I am referring to someone who is supposed to service the subscriber on your behalf and not for the employee's or subcontractor's benefit.

I  am frequently asked by my alarm dealer customers what I think their alarm accounts are worth, i.e., what multiple can they can expect from a buyer. The answer is complex as there is no "universal" multiple paid for alarm accounts.

The latest and greatest HD video, detection devices and access controls share the spotlight with productivity, design and installation tools as SSI reveals 2011’s Top 30 Technology Innovations. Take a look at which products made the strongest impact on our experts from both technological and practical business standpoints.

Video image detection is pushing past the boundaries of long established fire safety systems. Able to detect smoke or flame anywhere within cameras’ field of view, this method is not limited by standard detectors’ reliance on distance and area.

Mobile connectivity is breeding a world of consumers who expect full access and control of anything they want wherever they want it. High expectations, yes — but also high growth and profits for security systems/services providers that meet the demand.

Systems integrators and customer IT departments are really working toward the common goal of optimizing that organization’s operational efficiencies. Tactics such as reducing task times and expanding network capabilities can help integrators and IT win over executive management.

Installing security contractors are well positioned to adopt solar photovoltaic (PV) panels into their portfolios and take advantage of increasing opportunities to utilize “green” power alternatives. These solutions are ideal for projects that require a power supply for off-grid, remotely-installed equipment.

As the Automated Secure Alarm Protocol (ASAP) program continues to ramp up, the Central Station Alarm Association (CSAA) is actively recruiting charter members until Jan. 31.

For owners and managers of installing security companies preparing for 2012 there is no shortage of challenges, problems, frustrations and other headaches. Read on to learn about how you can affect positive change in your business.

A drop-off in system reliability and rise in high-profile violence at sports venues were in play as the San Francisco 49ers called a security audible and upgraded Candlestick Park’s over-the-hill video surveillance system. Integrator and end user explain how the migration to a networked solution has created a safer and more efficient game-day experience.

There are enormous differences between a great salesperson and a great sales manager. To be successful selling on a consistent basis, facing the negatives, the turn downs, the no’s salespeople face on a daily basis requires a thick skin, the ability to bounce right back up when knocked down, a positive can do attitude, a strong work ethic, a polished professional presentation, the ability to read people, prospecting skills, and certainly, closing skills.

I’ve been asked the question posed in the headline above hundreds of times in the past usually by alarm company owners who were stuck in a sales/production rut. Their company wasn’t growing, and the company owner/president/CEO was trying to do everything, wearing all the hats in the company.

Pivot3, a provider of unified storage and compute appliances, has named James Hajek as the company's CFO.

DVTel has named Cathy McHugh as director of global marketing.

Access control solutions provider Sielox has appointed two members to its sales operation to reach customers in the Midwest and West Coast regions.