Securex 2001 was the setting for several dozen interviews for the editors of Hi-Tech Security Systems, and by the time the closing afternoon had come, I was feeling the pace and was sorely in need of a second wind. An impending dose of flu did nothing to help, and it was with a certain degree of malaise that I welcomed Peter Cole, Managing Director of Sesco Security and Moshe Alkelai, President of the RISCO Group into the Hi-Tech Security Systems stand for my last scheduled interview of the week.
At technology exhibitions the world over, one gets used to hearing of the world changing ambitions of the major players, the service orientated focus of the smaller companies, and the technical innovation of the latest widgets. The drum beat can get monotonous. And as I say, I was feeling the pace and was sorely in need of a second wind.
An invigorating vision
And what a second wind it was.
By the time we said our adieus, I was invigorated by Alkelai's vision of a new concept in the security systems arena, whereby control systems which reach into many parts of the building or home and encompass perimeter security, access control, operation of electrical appliances, telephones, computers and more, will transform the way we work and play.
As Alkelai puts it, "From private homes to offices, industrial, public and commercial buildings, the challenge is clear - operating and managing our environment through one connecting gateway to make life more convenient."
But I digress. Let me start at the beginning.
The interview was at the request of Peter Cole, Managing Director of Sesco Security due to the fact that the RISCO Group had recently acquired a significant (controlling) stake in Sesco, and as such the strategic direction of RISCO will clearly define that of Sesco itself.
Sesco of course has an enviable track record in the South African market, where over a 30-year period it has established itself as a credible, leading supplier of electronic detection devices to the security and intruder detection industry. ROKONET, a subsidiary of RISCO, has been represented in South Africa by Sesco for many years.
After suitable introductions, Moshe Alkelai's first question to me was what my thoughts were on the state of the industry in South Africa.
For years I have been extolling the merits of the networked, information based technology solutions, preaching the technology gospel and urging companies and end-users alike to educate themselves, and keep abreast of technology trends. I have talked about how security solutions have become increasingly PC-based, database-driven, networked, remotely accessible and Internet enabled. For the most part, I have got used to the glazed looks and uncertain responses to which I have been exposed.
How refreshing to find a kindred spirit in Alkelai. We sparred and parried for the next hour as I tried to get some insight into the ambitions of RISCO, and the impact that these ambitions would have on the security industry, both in South Africa and globally.
In essence, the world that Alkelai described to me was one in which RISCO would be striving to meet what it sees as a growing need, "the interfacing and integrating of systems, devices and services into a customised controllable web-compatible network".
What is an integrated control solutions provider?
In explaining the structure of the group, Alkelai said that as "an integrated control solutions provider (iCP), we can offer the combined skills of our companies to provide a multi-faceted technology platform for home networking and 'smart buildings'."
The company will literally offer an integrated approach, harnessing all the technologies needed to create this "advanced and integrated home networking, intelligent building, smart home platform" that he talks about.
The companies Alkelai was referring to include:
* ROKONET, a major player in the world security market providing high-end alarm systems, detectors and access control devices.
* Gardiner Technology UK, a manufacturer and distributor in the UK security market.
* HOMEX, which develops building and home networking solutions.
* SEE-TV, with its CCTV hardware and DVR surveillance software systems, and;
* SPOTFIRE, which develops fire alarm systems.
"To achieve this goal," said Alkelai, "RISCO has created a new corporate structure that allows each area of specialisation to develop independently, managed by a subsidiary company. RISCO companies will nevertheless operate as a professional network, sharing developments and new initiatives.
"The entire group will become a systems house that provides solutions and full systems to the consumer. RISCO plans for aggressive growth and has the background to assure success. It is an established player in the security systems industry and is investing in exciting new technologies that will provide a springboard to future lucrative markets, such as home networking.
"In addition, company management has recognised the need for major internal reorganisation - and is currently taking steps to put this plan into effect," he added.
Ambitious? Unquestionably. Achievable? Well, the ball is rolling and there is simply no turning back now. Of course, though hindsight is an exact science, predicting the future is fraught with danger. RISCO's strategy, however, is already taking shape.
A customised, controllable web-compatible network
For example, ROKONET's Orbit INTEGRA is precisely the sort of security and control system Alkelai alludes to. A web-enabled, integrated solution, it comprises a range of connected services and products which leverage state-of-the-art telecommunication and automation technologies, and which will turn most household activities into automated, simple-to-control and manage affairs.
With a built-in web server and mobile-WAP technology, the Orbit INTEGRA will capture and present information from CCTV, access control, HAVAC, security and home automation devices, which is then easily accessible to the owner anywhere, from any Internet browser or mobile phone.
Indeed, security technology today is a whole new ball game.
As we wrapped up for the afternoon, my attention turned to Peter Cole. As invigorating as the interaction had been, it had become clear that RISCO's strategic direction, as articulated by Alkelai, poses stiff challenges for Sesco. The company will need to re-invent itself as it seeks to embrace this bold new world, without alienating its core and loyal base of customers.
In view of RISCO'S strategy to seek partners for synergistic activity, and its stated intention to meet this goal via M&A, the local security industry can rest assured that Sesco will not be standing still as the landscape in the South African security industry continues to shift irrevocably.
All the players are going to be feeling the pace and will be sorely in need of more than simply a second wind. They will need partners with the vision of RISCO.
For details contact Peter Cole of Sesco on tel: (031) 303 4022, fax: (031) 303 2253 or e-mail: [email protected]
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