Professional Video Surveillance

Professional Video Surveillance:

Detailed Risk Analysis

Timely Implementation

1. Efficiency

A professional video surveillance system is always efficient. This applies to both the infrastructure (bandwidth, switches, installed cables, masts, etc.) and the number of cameras used. These must be proportionate to the requirements and surveillance objectives. Therefore, professional video surveillance does not equate to a large number of expensive cameras, but is always precisely adapted to the specific requirements. A common practice among some video surveillance providers is also to use expensive hardware and software where more affordable options would be perfectly sufficient.

Example 1:

A car entrance is to be equipped with 24/7 recording and simultaneously detect and document incoming and outgoing vehicles by license plate. For this requirement, a single camera with the right VMS is sufficient. Using multiple cameras for this specific scenario is not reputable and would miss the objective.

Example 2:

In a warehouse, the loading ramp needs to be observed and recorded. Since the relevant objects (people, equipment, etc.) operate relatively close to the camera, an HD camera with 720p resolution is sufficient. With this resolution, important details like faces can be clearly recognized. Using a 4K camera here would be an overpriced option.

2. Reliability & Durability

Surveillance cameras, network components, and essentially all parts of a video surveillance system are heavily utilized. Continuous operation places significant demands on hardware and leads to wear and tear. Therefore, it is important that a video system:
  • is assembled from high-quality components,
  • is provided with a warranty on individual devices by the provider,
  • is repaired by the provider or service partners in case of malfunction,
  • is regularly updated with patches and updates.

3. IT Security and Data Protection

No network system in the world can guarantee 100% security. There are always technical or, much more likely, human factors that can lead to data breaches. However, with the right measures, professional video surveillance can prevent 99% of these cases.

The most important and effective means to protect a network video system is to operate it on a separate network.

Strict physical separation between the company network and the video network offers many advantages. Video streams do not burden the company network, and it is protected from access as there is no connection between the two networks.

4. Fail-safe Operation with Monitoring

A typical characteristic of video surveillance systems is uninterrupted operation over long periods. Fail-safe operation is an important criterion in this case.

Fail-safe operation is ensured through so-called monitoring. Monitoring involves supervising hardware using various sensors. Availability queries check the entire video network in real time. In the event of a problem, monitoring reports a malfunction, which can be immediately addressed.

5. Professional Video Surveillance is Easy to Operate

Every video surveillance system must be easy to operate. Depending on the industry, various individuals work with the video system, such as security personnel, private investigators, branch managers, or even private individuals.

None of these individuals are video surveillance specialists and must be able to operate the most important functions (activate streams, view and export recordings, etc.) after a brief training period.

A professional video system is straightforward for the end-user. Of course, there is also the option to completely cover the entire operation of the video surveillance system through external service providers. However, since video data contains sensitive information, customers often forgo this option and handle operations internally.

Finding the Right Provider for Professional Video Surveillance

A professional video surveillance system does not necessarily have to come from a specialized company. Especially for private use in homes or for small surveillance objects, a professional video system can be realized with the right advice and guidance. This is partly due to the fact that prices for network surveillance cameras have continuously decreased in recent years, while availability on online platforms has simultaneously increased. If a video system exceeds the scope of private use or encompasses multiple surveillance objectives, consulting a specialized company is advisable. But how do you find a good video surveillance provider, and what should you consider when choosing one? To avoid making a blind purchasing decision, there are important points that must be clarified in advance. Every reputable security technology provider should have clarified these points during a consultation before installation:

1. On-site Situation Analysis

After initial contact with a provider, they should conduct an on-site analysis of the property in consultation with the client, even before submitting an offer. Only then can all details be evaluated and assessed. This includes:

  • Are surveillance objectives formulated?
  • Are they (technically) sensible?
  • Are they implementable/feasible?
  • Is existing on-site infrastructure sufficient (internet bandwidth, electrical lines, etc.)?
  • Does feasibility match the client’s price expectations?
  • Is the project feasible within the specified timeframe?

EXCEPTIONS: Not every project will begin with an on-site analysis. Some clients already provide explicitly formulated requirements, for example, in tenders. All details are already formulated by technical consultants there. The provider only needs to submit an offer, based on which a decision will be made.

2. Clarifying Technical Questions

  • Should the surveillance cameras only stream or also record, and if so,
  • when and for how long should cameras record?
  • Are advanced functions required? (License plate recognition, motion tracking, etc.)
  • Who will operate the cameras?

3. Data Protection and GDPR

  • Does the provider have a data protection officer in the company?
  • Are GDPR regulations complied with?
  • Is data protection considered during the implementation of the video system?
  • What options does the provider offer for data protection, e.g., when recording personnel or public spaces?

4. Certificates and QM Proofs

QM proofs and certifications are among the most important indicators of reputable, professional companies. Often, certificates are even mandatory for the implementation of large or international projects.

The certification of individual employees also demonstrates quality. Specializations and further training are absolutely necessary in network technology and video surveillance to stay up-to-date.

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Would you like to learn more about us?

If you have any questions about VTIS GmbH, would like a consultation, or need help implementing a custom video surveillance system, simply get in touch with us. Our team of specialists from Sales and Technology is available to assist you at any time.

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Further Tips for Finding a Provider

More helpful tips that you should consider when selecting the right video technology provider.

1. Manufacturer Independence

A reputable installation company typically offers various hardware and software and is not limited to a single manufacturer/supplier. For many projects, it is worthwhile to consider alternatives that may be more cost-effective, offer better performance, or combine both.

2. Provider Search via Resellers

Providers of professional video surveillance systems rely on central resellers for the supply of hardware and software. These resellers can ensure high availability around the clock and offer a direct line to manufacturers.

Conversely, these resellers have a large partner network of installers, planning offices, and system integrators. Searching for a video surveillance company through resellers is a sensible approach.

3. Test Systems

For larger projects, e.g., those involving multiple locations, it is common practice to set up test branches and thoroughly evaluate them. Should problems arise, corrections can be made to the concept or system, or even further collaboration with the company can be foregone without being contractually bound to additional properties.

4. Service & Support

Even after installation and commissioning, services related to video surveillance are important. Generally, video systems are low-maintenance, but this does not exclude the possibility of malfunctions, damaged hardware, or simply necessary updates to ensure system functionality. In these cases, it is easiest to commission the company that already installed the system. This can save costs and time spent searching for new service providers and training them on an existing system. If you pay attention to these points when searching for a provider, you will certainly find the right partner for your individual video surveillance project. Alternatively, you can also contact VTIS GmbH directly for a consultation on professional video surveillance. As a full-service system house, we offer all services related to video surveillance.

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