As small-to-medium businesses face challenges posed by having to scale back various aspects of their day-to-day operations and stretch every budget dollar, security remains a critical element that simply cannot be compromised. However, deploying the right surveillance solution that is scalable and cost-effective, while providing high functionality that doesn’t require constant monitoring, cannot be overstated. A key element for achieving these goals includes the effective use of an IP surveillance solution that leverages an existing network infrastructure by integrating directly with it, and uses powerful and easy-to-use software to manage the network cameras. Below are some of the unique requirements for IP video surveillance in various segments of industry:

• Banking and finance require seamless integration with security and ATM systems, central monitoring, and multiple video delivery platforms.
• Transportation companies are seeking ways to improve operations while improving overall safety and security for travellers.
• Correctional facilities require the highest level of event awareness possible for monitoring inmates, visitors, structures and assets.
• Educational institutions represent a uniquely challenging environment when it comes to security. They must provide an open and nurturing learning environment while still ensuring the safety of all their students.
• Government is faced with the challenges of reducing criminal activity, defending against terrorism and threats, and dealing with natural and man-made disasters.
• Retail businesses probably suffer the most from loss due to theft inside and outside the operation. Millions of dollars are lost every year due to shoplifting, point-of-sale fraud and employee theft. New IP surveillance solutions provide a networked camera system throughout the store, and today’s video management software takes surveillance to a whole new level.
• Healthcare groups’ information must flow seamlessly across departments, facilities, regions, and even countries. Intelligent IP video surveillance is one of the ‘systems within the system’ on this information network, and is used to decrease security threats, ensure compliance with procedures and reduce costs. The same video management intelligence and functions used for many other industry segments are also changing the way some healthcare providers do business.   Resellers who are serious enough to work with IP surveillance must not only understand network technology, but must also understand surveillance fundamentals and correct placement of IP cameras, and select the appropriate IP camera for the given environment and recording systems. Working closely with the customer is paramount in determining the network and surveillance requirements. Whether the network can handle additional traffic generated by the surveillance solution is a critical aspect of any network proposal. In addition, consider what level of surveillance is required. Your customers might require night vision for a clear image in adverse ambient lighting conditions, or archival storage of video footage. Every industry segment will have different requirements for compliance. IT companies making the transition from traditional IT business will need to learn about surveillance, while security companies will need to understand networking. Those flexible enough to understand both will have a better chance of providing the right solution to the customer. There’s no question that IP surveillance is cost-effective to the customer when integrated with a feature-rich capable network.