Interactive video monitoring services and new opportunities for the security industry.
by Avi Lupo
The evolution of technology has transformed the world we live in. This new reality brings with it many interesting opportunities for the central stations. My goal is to share this new reality and its benefits. This time, I'd like to start by sharing why it's time to "put your head in the cloud."
Cloud computing has been around for a while, and despite its benefits, many businesses continue to operate without it. In fact, you've been using it for years. If you're searching for something on Google, using a smartphone, or accessing your Facebook account, or any other mobile app, you're using the cloud.
A study by Dell (https://www.delltechnologies.com/en-us/blog/what-companies-growing-more-than-50-percent-faster-are-investing-in/) reports that companies that invest in big data, cloud, mobility and security enjoy up to 53% faster revenue growth than their competitors. They use this technology to manage their organizations more efficiently, better serve their customers, and dramatically increase their overall profit margins.
The cloud includes software as a service (SaaS), platform as a service (PaaS), and infrastructure as a service (IaaS). Below is a list of the benefits of the cloud. As you read, imagine what everyone can do for their central station.
Accessibility
Cloud-based applications and data are accessible from virtually any device connected to the Internet.
Data Security
Hardware failures do not result in data loss due to backups. Once the data is stored in a cloud, it is easier to get the backup and recovery. Recovering data lost on premises can be an exceptionally long process.
Equipment savings
Cloud computing uses remote resources, saving organizations the cost of servers and other equipment.
Payment structure
You only pay for the resources you use.
Flexibility
Users can scale services to suit their needs, customize applications, and access services from anywhere with an Internet connection.
Strategic value
Cloud services give businesses a competitive advantage by providing the most innovative technology available.
Regular updates
Service providers provide updates periodically to provide users with the latest technology.
Cost savings
Cost savings are one of the biggest benefits of the cloud, especially substantial savings in capital costs, since there is no need to invest in any physical hardware. In addition, you do not need trained personnel to maintain the hardware.
Unlimited storage capacity
The cloud offers almost unlimited storage capacity. At any time, you can quickly expand your storage capacity with very nominal monthly fees (including video storage).
I hope this helps you understand the many benefits of the cloud for your central station and the success you'll enjoy once you "put your head in the cloud."
Think broadly and not only evaluate potential savings, but also think about improved productivity, more speed, and less risk. This is where I think the industry is headed.
The great hockey player Wayne Gretzky once remarked that he will miss 100 percent of the shots he doesn't make. Are you ready to shoot and get the benefits? There has never been a better time to bring your central station to the new reality, which is in part, the cloud.
* Avi Lupo is co-president of New DICE. He served as CEO of FST21 America, a security technology company with offices in Israel and the U.S. And he also served as co-founder and president of OzVision Global, a leading developer of advanced video solutions in the international security monitoring market. Among its many accomplishments, Avi formed strategic alliances that introduced Video as a Service (VaaS) into the security industry, setting industry standards.
