Your business is your most important investment, and you’ve worked hard to get it where it is today. Now, you need to find the best way to keep it secure from threats and to protect your employees. With so much at stake, here are the factors to consider when choosing the best security system.
1. Conduct a Thorough Security Assessment
A thorough understanding of your property’s weaknesses, aligned with your goals in installing a security system, is a good starting point. Ask yourself:
What do I need from a system? Are you looking for surveillance, monitoring, life safety, alarms, or all of these? Will your system be stand-alone, or will you keep a guard on duty? Is it important to have remote access to the system?
Where are the entrances and exits? Do a walk-through of the building, making a note of all windows, doors, external vents, garage bays, or any location where a person could gain entry.
What are the physical features of my building? A property with large open spaces, such as a warehouse, will need a different security approach than an office building.
2. Consider Video Surveillance Options
Video surveillance is an important part of any security system. You know it’s a crime deterrent from external threats, but it can also play an important part in monitoring employees who handle inventory and cash. It can also provide footage to resolve disputes with employees, both within the team and in customer interactions. Video surveillance plays a vital role in providing evidence in crimes as well, providing police with valuable information they wouldn’t otherwise have.
3. Access Control Systems
A comprehensive approach to security for your business will include an access control system. This is a way to control who enters the building, and what areas of the property they can visit. It’s an additional layer of security to protect certain areas of the building, such as stock rooms, safes, or even offices from unwanted visitors. There are many types of access control systems available, from simple keypads to powerful AI technologies featuring biometrics.
4. Research Security System Providers
Now it’s time to start shopping around. A Google search is always a great place to start, but it certainly won’t narrow down your options. You can ask other commercial property owners and managers in your area who they use, and if they’re happy with the service.
Additional Factors to Consider When Choosing a Business Security System:
Pricing: Remember that the cheapest option isn’t always the best one. Consider the packages being offered, and make sure there are no hidden “add-ons” in the contracts. Read the fine print, checking for everything from initial pricing and installation charges to guarantees and warranties.
Reputation: You’re always in better hands with a provider who has years of proven experience in the security industry. Check the BBB, Google ratings, and independent reviews for overall satisfaction with the company. Additionally, ask the potential provider questions about employees:
- Do they undergo a background check?
- Are employees drug tested?
- Are workers employed by the company, or contractors?
- What qualifications are needed for technicians at the company?
Equipment: Why does the security provider recommend their equipment? Is it suitable for your business’ needs? Is it wired or wireless, and can it be scaled as your business grows? Do you own the equipment, or will you be charged rental fees? Can it be integrated with an existing security system?
Terms and Conditions: Ask about contract length and inclusions. Before you sign the dotted line, make sure you understand if repairs or replacement equipment is covered, how long the contract lasts, and exactly how much you’ll be paying over the length of the contract. Make sure to read the fine print, checking for hidden fees and exclusions.
Compliance: Depending on your business, you may have specific regulations for your security systems. Look for a provider who is certified to provide security for your industry.
Monitoring: Business alarm systems need monitoring to be truly effective. How does the potential security system provider handle monitoring services?
Next Generation Security Concepts Provides the Security Systems Your Business Needs
Next Generation Security Concepts can provide all the security features your business needs, from access control systems to monitoring services, alarms, and video surveillance. It all starts with a free, no-obligation security assessment. Contact us now, and let’s talk about upgrading or enhancing your security systems.
