Modernize Campus Security Without a Complete Overhaul

As reported by Campus Safety Magazine in their article “Upgrading Your Campus Physical Security System? Rip-and-Replace Isn’t Necessary,” upgrading a campus physical security system is a complex and often daunting task. Yet modernizing obsolete access control, video management, or other crucial systems is necessary to keep students safe. While systems were once used simply to monitor and record, new and updated security systems can now be used to proactively mitigate safety and security incidents. In fact, the latest advances in technology have enabled security professionals to think more about the prevention of incidents than ever before.

Thankfully, modernizing your security infrastructure doesn’t always require a complete rip-and-replace. You can minimize the disruption and expense associated with upgrading systems by choosing an open architecture platform that is compatible with a wide selection of hardware. Then you’re able to plan and prioritize upgrades gradually over time as needs and risks evolve.

Plan for Security System Upgrade Success

Whether you’re installing a new system, replacing obsolete technology, or adding new features, planning is key. The first step is to clarify the problems you’re trying to solve. Make sure the technology and systems you choose are right for your needs. This may entail assembling a team of stakeholders to identify current needs and pain points. Then assess known and potential threats. Together, you can outline a vision of what you’d like to achieve with the new campus security system.

You want clarity on essential questions like:

What areas are you protecting?
Who will use the system?
What works well today?
What pain points or problems do you want the new system to address?
What specific video management, access control, or other features do you need?
What kinds of analytics and reports would be helpful?

Designing a system that addresses the specific areas of concern ensures that budget and resources are allocated effectively, and your team provides the best solution to your community.

For example, after completing a vulnerability assessment, one university determined it needed to upgrade its video management system to address specific safety and security problems. Because the institution understood the exact nature of the security threats it faced, it established installation standards for any future video system. Requirements included features such as motion-sensing, high-quality day and night vision, and vandal-resistant casing for cameras installed below a certain height.

Engage Stakeholders in the Process

When considering the purchase of new technologies, think about what’s being proposed as a business solution as well as a security system. Modern security software collects a vast amount of data that can be an asset to operations and facilities managers as well as leaders making business decisions.

To learn more about how Torrence Sound can help your campus upgrade its security systems efficiently with open architecture solutions, click here.