What Should I Consider When Upgrading Security at My Business?
Ensuring the safety and security of your business is more important than ever.
Whether you’re looking to protect your assets, employees, or customers, upgrading your security systems — including both cameras and access control — can be a smart move.
But with so many factors to consider, it’s essential to approach this upgrade strategically. Here are five key things you should consider when upgrading the security at your business.
Assessing Your Current Security Needs
Before diving into new systems, take a step back and evaluate your existing setup. Here are some questions to help you get started:
Are ALL entry/exit points within clear view of a security camera?
Is a burglar alarm system installed? If so, when was the last time it was tested?
Are the current security cameras old & delivering grainy footage?
If securing doors with lock & key, when was the last time the locks were replaced?
Understanding what’s lacking in your current system will help you determine where to focus your upgrade efforts.
Performing a physical security audit helps pinpoint the weaknesses in your current setup. A strong audit should examine both surveillance coverage and access points to determine which areas need the most attention.
PRO TIP: Experienced security specialists (like Observa Technologies) can perform these audits for you, giving special attention to potential security weak points you may not otherwise have considered.
Hardware & Software Considerations
While it might seem that the hardware is the most important element of your upgrade, today's systems are increasingly defined by their software capabilities. When considering cameras, look beyond features like resolution and night vision—most standard models offer similar specs. The real difference comes from software experiences, such as real-time alerts, AI-powered analytics, and mobile access.
For access control, consider upgrading from traditional key-based systems to more modern solutions like smart card readers, biometric systems, or mobile credential access. These options offer enhanced security while making it easier to manage who can enter different areas of your business.
Additionally, software is the backbone of any modern security system. Modern tools provide a unified platform that allows you to manage both your surveillance and access control systems. From granting or revoking access permissions to analyzing video footage for suspicious behavior, the software experience can make a huge difference in the ease of managing security.
Integration with Existing Systems
Whether you’re upgrading cameras or installing a new access control system, integration with your existing infrastructure is crucial, as it can save you significant capital.
For example, if your cameras work fine but the NVR is failing, purchasing a new NVR that is compatible with your existing cameras can save you thousands. For access control, think about how it will integrate with your other security measures. Can it trigger specific cameras when someone enters or exits a secured area?
In addition to saving money, the more security systems you’re able to integrate together, the more powerful they will become. Security cameras & access control are great tools separately, but when combined into a single dashboard they give you unparalleled ability to secure your building remotely.
Budget and Long-Term Costs
Security upgrades are an investment that involves both upfront and ongoing costs. While it’s tempting to focus solely on the price of new cameras or access control devices, don’t forget to factor in installation, maintenance, and software subscription fees.
For example, cloud-based video storage and remote access capabilities often come with monthly fees. Likewise, maintaining and updating an access control system (like reprogramming access cards or updating user permissions) may require additional ongoing expenses. However, these upgrades often provide cost savings over time, such as reduced theft, increased employee productivity, and better emergency response coordination.
Professional Installation and Support
Proper installation is vital to the success of your upgraded system. Cameras need to be positioned for optimal coverage, and access control systems must be correctly installed to ensure proper functionality and compliance with regulations. A professional service, such as that offered by Observa Technologies, ensures your equipment is installed correctly and that everything works together seamlessly.
Ongoing support is equally important for both surveillance and access control. Whether you’re troubleshooting issues with camera footage or needing to quickly update access permissions, having expert support on hand is invaluable.
Conclusion
Upgrading your business’s security involves more than just replacing old cameras—it’s about creating a holistic system that integrates both surveillance and access control for maximum protection. By considering your current needs, focusing on the software experience, ensuring integration, budgeting wisely, and seeking professional installation, you’ll build a smarter, more secure environment for your business.
If you’re ready to upgrade your security system or want a free consultation, contact Observa Technologies today to explore your options.
