Vanderbilt Exec Talks Cloud-Based Opportunities for Security Pros, Cybersecurity
Vanderbilt’s Kim Loy explains how to engage in more RMR-based business, as well as deal with cybersecurity threats.
Vanderbilt Industries, a global provider of open-architecture security systems, is determined to innovate across all sectors. SSI recently spoke with Vanderbilt Director of Technology and Communications Kim Loy about the company’s latest offerings, how it sees the industry and more.
What’s the latest news and products to come out of Vanderbilt?
Vanderbilt is emerging as a company dedicated to delivering innovative solutions that address the needs of a wide variety of markets, while honoring the balance of testing and addressing potential vulnerabilities in creating integrated solutions.
The big news coming out of Vanderbilt is the recent addition of our Cloud-based access control and video management platform to the North American market, which has been positively received as an avenue for small- to medium-sized businesses to gain more security without extensive capital investment in IT infrastructure.
How do you currently see the market?
Over the last year, we saw a number of advancements in business development and product refinement across the industry. Cloud is continuing to be a major area for improvement as manufacturers strive to meet the demands of today’s customers and deliver products that are secure and robust at the same time. There’s a lot of room for us to shift more to the Cloud and this integrated approach to access control and video management across all sectors of the market.
What are some challenges/opportunities for security dealers/integrators?
Dealers and integrators are looking for new ways to increase revenue and security manufacturers continue to improve their technology and rely on more software-based functionalities that are easily updated in the Cloud. One way to do this is by engaging in more recurring monthly revenue (RMR)-based business. Access Control-as-a-Service (ACaaS) is emerging as a viable option for dealers and integrators to better serve SMB customers.
What are some benefits of offering Access Control as a Service? What advice do you have for pros looking to get into ACaaS?
ACaaS is a natural fit for start-ups and small businesses that are unlikely to be attracted by the prospect of setting up and managing on-premises infrastructure and applications. Engaging in an ACaaS contract with a provider makes it easier for these small companies to focus on their core business rather than the added expenditure of time and resources in building a security solution. This can lead to large cost savings with the eradication of expenses like installing, maintaining and upgrading on-premises IT infrastructure, versus the operational cost of an ACaaS subscription.
This is a market that’s continuing to grow as security moves toward the cloud and incorporating the Internet of Things (IoT). The advice I have to pros looking to get into ACaaS is not to wait – that the time is now and there are companies out there that have a solid product to sell and a base of customers that can benefit from such a service.
How are you dealing with the rise of cybersecurity threats seen around the world? What advice do you have for security pros?
Vulnerability testing security solutions is a must. For manufacturers, this should be incorporated into the development phase of any product from day one, and includes analysis of the types of cyberattacks that can potentially attack, breach and disable a system. The process by which Vanderbilt tests its products is by continually testing a product to identify weaknesses so they can be patched up.
This cycle continues until a product is considered ready for market. However, it doesn’t end there. It’s important to continue to test your products and offer fixes once more vulnerabilities are identified through software and firmware updates. Not only does this demonstrate a continued focus on delivering best-in-class products, but also adds an element of continued service for customers and integrators who use and sell our products.
What will you be showing at ISC West this year?
We’ll be demonstrating the access control and video management solutions for which Vanderbilt has become known, including our bright blue, lite blue, and SMS platforms, as well as our latest product offering, the ACT365 Cloud-based access control and video management system.
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