Ask the Expert: Are SaaS and hosted video services ready for physical security?

Written by Robert Moore Monday, 26 July 2010 15:15

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If money was no object for your customers, how would you build their security systems?

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Aside from selecting top-of-the-line network cameras, monitors and software, you’d probably install provisions to ensure that recording never failed. To do this, you could house the recorder in a co-location facility with an uninterrupted power supply (UPS) to provide emergency electricity. In case of long-term outages, you would protect data by installing a generator. You’d also protect loss of Web connectivity by obtaining Internet redundancy from two different sources. And, above all, you’d make sure that the data was replicated in multiple geographic areas so important information would always be safe.

Unfortunately, budget concerns are an issue in the real world. Fortunately for installers, however, there are companies today dedicated to building and maintaining facilities like those described above. With Software-as-a-Service VMS offerings, you can provide this option at a reasonable cost.

What are the benefits of SaaS?

With SaaS, a service provider will license applications via the Internet as on-demand subscription-based services. You likely use SaaS apps in your everyday life with products such as Microsoft’s Hotmail, Salesforce.com, or Gmail and Google docs. SaaS usage is now gaining momentum in the physical security market for a few reasons.

SaaS offers a number of advantages for both customers and installers. Customers benefits include: (1) low upfront capital investments; (2) eliminating the need to upgrade VMS or PC security patches for their DVRs; and (3) scalability with minimal maintenance. Additionally, with video data being securely housed offsite, thieves can no longer steal or destroy recording equipment, nor can the video be manipulated by internal staff to cover up crimes.

The main installer benefit is a straightforward one: A new monthly recurring revenue stream, providing a reliable source of income during bumpy sales periods. It represents an additional revenue stream for alarm monitor companies, as well, with a potential money-saving feature of video verification of alarm tripping to boot.

Any installer can provide VMS SaaS offerings to customers by simply partnering with a VMS host supplier, which will house data in co-location sites. Host suppliers can even help you sell branded SaaS offerings in customized “skin interfaces,” so when a customer uses the VMS, it looks like your company’s product.

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Last modified on Monday, 26 July 2010 15:25

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