printer friendly version

Integrated, intelligent platform

There’s a lot to be said for security platforms that reach across the organisation to include all aspects of security and related components – they not only provide greater control and drive down costs, they deliver intelligent functionality. The best ones have plenty of processing power for fast response and have offline capabilities – i.e. they can deliver on the security function even if there is a power failure or a server onsite or in-the-cloud goes down.

For multinationals and other organisations that have facilities in multiple locations, the key advantages include:

• A single platform for integration of multiple systems. Application program interfaces (APIs) from system or platform vendors allow disparate systems, from the building management system (BMS) to the CCTV, fire, intrusion and access control system to work together dynamically and seamlessly. This is particularly useful for companies that own facilities with different needs – for example, a warehouse and corporate offices – as these platforms can accommodate both.

• Standardisation and consistency. There’s nothing quite like having the same security policy and processes in place across the business to drive adherence and uphold standards. In addition, these platforms often come with built-in best practices or the ability to configure these into sophisticated response and escalation functions.

• Integration of business, security and ops systems. Among others, Johnson Controls’ P2000 security platform enables the integration of enterprise systems such as human resources solutions. With a single system across the organisation to be updated, security is tighter, and policies can provide a better safety net, minimising human error – for instance, once a person resigns, access is revoked; if the HR database indicates a person is not allowed to do additional shift work or is unqualified to handle certain equipment, access can be denied, etc.

There are also the obvious wins, with more systems integrated, the advantages of a smart unified system can be realised. For example, there’s the opportunity to cut energy consumption if the access control system signals that certain parts of the building are not occupied by switching off unneeded air conditioning and lighting.

Platform security systems can grow with the business. With increasingly sophisticated functionality, these security platform solutions offer users the ability to roll out functionality as needed, and can scale to meet the needs of growing businesses.

The cost savings that a single system provides are also clear. With a single security platform in use across the organisation, licensing, upgrades and maintenance costs will drop.

That’s a lot of reasons to invest in a security platform solution. Find one that suits your business, has a great track record, the functionality to deliver smart savings in an increasingly digital realm, and has the local support base to keep it optimised.

Share this article:

Further reading: