Choosing A Security System Part II

Security Professional, IT, Electrician, or Self-Install? 

Why All of the Above is the Correct Answer

In my previous article, we discussed the importance of planning your security project using a security professional to help guide you through the technology and processes to wisely spend your hard-earned money on these projects.  Now let’s discuss how it should be executed and who should be performing the work.

There is an abundant amount of IT and electrical companies who will include security systems (CCTV, Card Access, and Alarm) as part of their offerings.  Some do a fine job in the technical installation of the devices and can be competitive in pricing, but Security is not their CORE knowledge base.  IT companies focus on network and web security, and Electricians typically concentrate on delivering voltage to your equipment and wall outlets.  Neither has any real experience in physical security or proper deployment of the correct equipment to meet your needs and provide value for the money you are spending on it.

Security Professionals, all too often, are called in after a project has been designed, sold, and installed by an IT or electrical company to find that maybe the install itself was good, but the equipment that was installed was not right for the job or environment and/or that lesser-grade product was installed than what will survive the environment it is being deployed.  This is also the case with most self-installs. 

A good Security Professional employs, whether through subcontractor or tapping owner-resources, numerous trades to execute a security project.  Being no different than a construction project, these systems typically require more than one industry’s expertise to get the job done properly and efficiently:

1. Electricians run and install cabling following BICSI and NEC guidelines ensuring your building and occupants are protected. Understanding the code and regulation surrounding this requires experts.
2. IT professionals, on your staff or subbed-out, know how to keep your network secure. It’s what they do, and they do it well.  Access to the system will require their support at some point.
3. Self, whether your Facility Manager or the Owner, will be needed to provide guidance on protocols and Project Management for the facility.
4. Security Professionals will provide the physical security and technical knowledge to design and commission the system to meet your needs now and in the future. They will also provide the Project Management for the installation and ensure that functionality and deadlines are met.

In summary, it takes a team of professionals from different industries to make a security deliverable successful.  No single trade can perform brilliantly in the other areas well enough to pass muster.  The Security Professional must be involved and work with the IT, Electricians, and the Owner to ensure the security system project is executed properly and delivers the expected results.