Solutions such as IoT, Cloud and Artificial Intelligence are here to stay in the security industry.
by Per Björkdahl*
In 2020 we saw industries around the world turn to new ways of doing business and in their methods of innovating and collaborating with partners. 2021 is likely to be a continuation of this, as the security industry focuses on technologies used to mitigate the risks associated with Covid-19. Technologies such as occupancy management, automated visitor management, and contactless access control applications are increasing in demand.
This, in turn, increases the demand for interoperability as organizations seek to implement best-in-class solutions. To power these technologies, artificial intelligence (AI), cloud storage, and the Internet of Things (IoT) are driving new functionalities and new uses of existing technologies to deliver customized applications to address pandemic-related health, safety, and security issues.
Interoperability in the intelligent application sectors
In light of the growing number of connected devices and new opportunities in video analytics for pandemic-related uses and beyond, the demand for interoperable systems has only increased. Covid-19 worked effectively to highlight this need for interoperability, as end users seek to integrate many of the technologies needed to continue the business as usual. Such technologies include video analytics intended to aid in occupancy management, reinforcing social distancing, and ensuring the use of appropriate face protection.
For the interoperability of IP cameras or analytics applications with video management systems, the ONVIF Release Candidate for Profile M will be a valuable contribution and component for organizations looking for flexible and cost-effective solutions for their intelligent applications. The Profile M Release Candidate aims to standardize metadata communication and analysis event handling for intelligent applications. It would allow users to mix and match analytics and camera hardware and software from different vendors more easily. And it would provide the possibility of an integration path into IoT systems, with a way to link devices such as IP cameras to building management or other business intelligence platforms.
To meet the growing demands for intelligent applications driven by security, business intelligence, and IoT devices, devices and customers that meet the M profile would encourage further growth in the number and types of applications, resulting in an even greater choice for end users. Interoperability and possibilities with Profile M could provide market potential for smaller, more innovative companies in the analytics space and for end users, freedom of choice.
Cloud, AI and IoT continue to drive the market
As IoT-connected devices increase and the demand for intelligent application integrations accelerates, these technologies that were once novel to the security industry are becoming more common. This increased focus is leading to greater investment in analytics, as people look for solutions that help them adapt to the new way of life, while also reopening economies and restarting infrastructure.
Although the cloud is by no means a new technology for electronic security, the growth of cloud video storage is being driven by both security and non-security uses. The cloud offers cost-effective price points and continued flexibility, providing a variety of opportunities for organizations of all sizes that have only been intensified or accelerated by the Covid-19 pandemic. As many are reevaluating the traditional use of their existing technologies or looking for other methods to help with day-to-day operations, the cloud can help businesses remotely monitor their empty spaces or provide additional coverage where fewer on-site staff are required.
The continuation of these trends in 2021 (cloud technology, IoT and AI) will attract even more attention than in previous years. This is due to the fact that they all mix, each becomes more efficient with the help of the other. Cloud technology is becoming increasingly vital and can boost IoT performance. Conversely, AI can also benefit from IoT to work more efficiently. Much of this has allowed cloud technology and the rise of IoT to lay the groundwork for artificial intelligence and video analytics.
* This was the last article supplied by Per Björkdahl before he left the chairmanship of the ONVIF Steering Committee.
