immix When we think of video systems, we imagine a one-time installation with cameras, an NVR, and possibly a video wall. There may be a maintenance plan but no additional RMR. Under this scenario, post the installation, the Installer typically has little interaction with the customer.

If we change the mindset and think in terms of a video system that can be monitored just like an alarm system, it opens new possibilities and opportunities. Video systems can be a complete security system that can detect and provide the opportunity to respond to threats in a proactive fashion.


A Different Positioning

The first step in changing the mindset is to think in terms of selling the services rather than just a product. There is so much more to offer than just a video wall where the Central Station must continually watch and wait for an event to happen. Thanks to today’s AI and video analytics, Central Stations and Installers can recommend new interactive video services by being able to monitor a multitude of event types. You can differentiate your business from the competitors by offering value-added video monitoring solutions.


Today’s Challenges

So why should the customer care? They have already purchased the equipment, and as far as they are aware, it is working. But there are several things to think about.

First, a guard watching multiple cameras can easily miss an event and in the end with recording 24/7, there is an overload of video.

Second, is the expense of updating the system – which could include equipment, guards, and an IT person.

Finally, many customers are not aware and have not been told of the options and possibilities. Without knowing, how can they make the right decision for them?


New Services

Today, thanks to AI, video analytics, and new technology, new and innovative interactive video services can be recommended. Different services include Remote Guarding (video detection and response, video guard patrols etc.), Remote Doorman, Advanced Video Verification, Video Supervision or Assist and others.

Just as with an alarm system, communication can be to the Central Station and /or to the end-user. These services not only provide better security and cost savings, but also better business management.


AI and Analytic Services

The list of AI and Video Analytics companies is growing at a rapid rate. Video Analytic services now include, people counting, loitering, object detection, crowd detection, restricted parking, behavior analytics, and much more. In addition, the option of video archiving in the cloud has further added benefits.


Planning and Execution: A Segment of the Ecosystem of Video Monitoring

With a different mindset and new services comes the need for enhanced planning.

The process should no longer be simply installing cameras and then moving on to the next installation. Part of the sales process is to engage with the customer. Once Central Stations and Installers understand the pain points of the customer and the challenges they are facing, they can develop and design a system to provide the services the customer needs. Once that service need is identified, the proper equipment, installation, and configuration (including placement, types of analytics, etc.) help make it successful.

Looking at the bigger picture, the ecosystem includes the customer site, security devices in place, communication systems, and the Central Station. Additional elements to take into consideration are other devices that may be integrated with video, including access control, intrusion, fire, and others. As well as where to send the communication when processing the signals/triggers - to the central station, to the customer, etc.

Converting existing legacy video systems to be monitoring-ready is another challenge to be considered. Often times, customers that may desire the services may not have the budget to replace existing systems.

Fortunately, there are several solutions on the market to address this challenge. Immix Site-Link is a perfect example of such a solution for integrators and monitoring centers looking to quickly connect legacy technology at any site to the Immix platform for monitoring. Immix Site-Link simplifies and expedites the set-up process to begin providing monitoring services and generating RMR quickly by removing the need for port-forwarding and alleviating in-depth network or firewall troubleshooting. This solution closes the gap between system integration and monitoring, enabling

Finally, consider where the video is stored: on-site, in the cloud, or a combination of the two.


Changing the Industry Mindset

It begins in our own industry. Installers and Central Stations need to understand today’s video monitoring possibilities – what it means to them in the long term and for their customers. This includes creating procedures for video monitoring and training—from both the sales and operational aspect. Once they have a good understanding, they can now educate their customers and offer these new interactive services.

Starting out, keep it simple but, scalability is the secret sauce. There are limitless add-on services. Become the customers’ partner, not just a vendor.

Below is a full overview of The Ecosystem of Today’s Video Monitoring

  1. What is Today’s Video Monitoring?
    1. A new way of selling interactive video services
    2. Includes AI and analytics
    3. Any type of video alarm event
  2. The Components of the Ecosystem
    1. The End User Site
    2. Communication
    3. The Central Station
    4. Interface back to customer/ authorities
  3. First Steps – Planning
    1. Understand the customer pain points
    2. Define systems/ operational design
    3. The right equipment or add-on components to existing equipment
    4. The right installation and configuration (placement, type of analytics, etc.)
    5. The needed communication channels
  4.  Types of Interactive Video Services and RMR
    1. Remote Guarding
    2. Remote Doorman
    3. Others
  5. Interface with Other Devices/ Systems
    1. Access Control
    2. Intrusion
    3. Fire
    4. Other
  6. Processing Triggers
    1. To the central station
    2. To the customer
    3. To first responders
  7. At the Central Station
    1. Procedures
    2. Training
    3. SOPs/KPIs
  8. Storing the Video
    1. In the cloud
    2. Onsite
    3. Benefits of each and a hybrid solution