I realize that some traditional security professionals turn a deaf ear when they hear term "cloud-based monitoring." I'd like to believe this is true because they don't have a full understanding on the great advantages and redundancy that a cloud-based structure can offer. I read an article recently that detailed some thoughts on this subject. Essentially it's best to start by looking at this structure as software as a service or SaaS.
Although some additional elements exist as telephone service, receivers, etc., essentially the backbone of any monitoring center is the automation software platform. A few well structured platforms offer the great ability to partition and compartmentalize sections of the software. This gives the ability to allow remote users to essentially rent space on the central station platform. Understanding that the basis of a central station is the telephone circuits and subscriber data, it's pretty easy to see where pointing receiver lines to a central station receiver, managing your data within your own database partition and handling alarms either on a 24/7 basis or during abridged hours, leads to a successful model. A structure as this avoids the necessity for huge capital expenditures, the need for ongoing licensing and support fees, and the necessity for staffing highly skilled IT staff to support the automation.
This really works! I did it in the mid-1990s when technology was not nearly as available and friendly as it is today. Structures as this offer small central station a graceful method to streamline without great investment. It also gives proprietary or boutique companies the availability to maintain their uniqueness without breaking the bank. It is no secret that we have many large, highly skilled central stations that operate on world class platforms. In most cases it is nearly impossible to justify an investment to replicate that on a smaller scale. This should not be a reason on why a smaller or smarter operator shouldn't have the ability to tap into this and compete on any scale they choose.
Take a look at everything from basic monitoring to remote video monitoring and everything in-between. Utilizing a world class operation as your cloud makes sense almost all of the time. It is not difficult and it offers a meaningful return on investment (ROI).
Other Security Blog Posts
Enterprising Solutions | May 2, 2012
While it’s true that modern cameras can often get you good images under lousy conditions, improving conditions usually improves the image quality dramatically. In that spirit, here are a few camera placement tips that we frequently see overlooked.
Central Station Corner | April 26, 2012
As security professionals, we strive to provide the best possible electronic security solutions for our clients that will meet their unique lifestyles or logistics of their business. This element should always remain to be our focus as we survey a potential or existing customer’s premise.
Value-Added Security | April 25, 2012
In this blog, Paul Boucherle discusses what integrators must do to design the best solutions for end users.
Under Surveillance | April 19, 2012
Are you currently mentoring your employees? SSI Managing Editor Rodney Bosch offers some insight on why mentoring your workers is essential to improving your business.
Laying Down the Law | April 16, 2012
Ken Kirschenbaum advises readers on how to address changes in contracts after modifying the company's name..