Tim A. Scally

TMA Calls for Member Participation in Industry Processes

November 1, 2017

The Monitoring Association (TMA) recently announced a call to action to its members, urging increased TMA member participation in codes and standards development that impact the security and fire alarm industries.

Unraveling Video Compression: The Benefits and Drawbacks of H.265

Tim A. Scally

October 30, 2017

As camera technology continues to improve, clogged bandwidth becomes an increasing problem. Video compression formats have come a long way in helping to solve these issues, but is the latest format, H.265, right for you?

Cloud Video RMR SDM Magazine October 2017

5 Ways to Increase RMR With Cloud Video Services

Less reluctance surrounding the cloud means more customers are demanding it. But as you go to the cloud, how do you ensure the RMR goes up with you?

Tim A. Scally

October 7, 2017

More customers are beginning to take advantage of cloud technologies. Meanwhile, more and more integrators are offering cloud services in one form or another. Integrators interviewed for this article reported mixed results with regard to what percentage of their customers used their cloud video services.

Client-Driven Service: How One Company Keeps Its Fingers on the Pulse of Customer Needs

Tim A. Scally

September 22, 2017

In a technology-rich environment such as that of the security industry, it is easy to let technology drive company management. Salient System’s president explains how allowing customer needs to drive your company is more effective.

Security Companies Roll Up Their Sleeves, Lend Aid After Hurricane Harvey

Tim A. Scally

September 7, 2017

Certain industries seem to attract people who are naturally dedicated to serving and protecting others. In my time covering the security industry, especially a time such as this, I am pleased to say that there seems to be common thread among the people I meet at tradeshows, conferences, and in interviews: These are people devoted to helping others.

While all players have a responsibility when it comes to cybersecurity

Cyber Reality: How the Security Industry Is Adjusting to the New Normal

Gone are the days when cybersecurity was someone else’s problem. With savvy and tenacious hackers who can use almost anything connected to a network to access systems, and evolving and seemingly implacable threats, just where does the security industry stand on the cyber preparedness spectrum?

Tim A. Scally

September 2, 2017

Cybersecurity is a topic on everyone’s mind. Right now it seems there are more questions than answers, but one thing is certain: the issue is here to stay — cyberthreats are the new normal.

3 Keys to Making Customer Support Work for Your Company

Tim A. Scally

August 28, 2017

Customer support is an immensely important part of the security industry.

It’s Time to Rethink INTERCOMS

Intercoms have been around for decades with little variation in technology. Recently, however, technological advances, coupled with a drive to secure perimeters in light of terrorism and workplace violence, have made intercoms a key part of a complete security system.

Tim A. Scally

August 1, 2017

Having all the most sophisticated security technology inside a building is important; but a more ideal situation is controlling who enters, and thereby eliminating threats before they even get on premises.

Congressional School Safety Caucus Raises Awareness for School Security

Tim A. Scally

July 7, 2017

On June 28 and 29, industry representatives and representatives from the educational field went to Washington, D.C., to take part in the Congressional School Safety Caucus, a caucus that SIA along with the Secure School Alliance and several SIA members helped to launch with Congresswoman Susan Brooks from Indiana and Congressman Rick Larsen of Washington for the purpose of spreading awareness about the technology, funding and education needed for safe schools.

FBI, DHS Detail Hacks Targeting Nuclear Facilities

Tim A. Scally

July 7, 2017

The FBI and the Department of Homeland Security issued a joint report detailing malware attacks targeting employees of companies that operate nuclear power plants in the U.S., including the Wolf Creek Nuclear Operating Corporation in Burlington, Kan., according to the cybersecurity firm Tripwire.