There are many benefits to installing a video security system at a commercial establishment.  Most people immediately think of a retail business or office building when commercial establishment is mentioned.  However, recent crimes and vandalism has led organizations and leaders in institutions to consider the benefits of video surveillance in order to protect infrastructure, employees, and the general public.

The obvious benefits to having a video security system at a place of business are numerous.  Most install a system in order to provide protection of property and for loss prevention purposes.  As with any retail environment, theft is prevalent.  Being able to document the crime, possibly recover stolen property, and aid in the prosecution is important to an establishment.  Patrons also have a sense of safety whenever a video security system is utilized.  The image of an organization helping protect the consumer, as well as the business, can be a good public relations tool.

Some establishments might choose video monitoring within the workplace in order to confirm employee productivity and performance.  In higher risk industries, video monitoring can be used for safety and to help deter false worker’s compensation claims.  Compensation insurance protection premiums can skyrocket after a worker’s injury claim, thus installing video security cameras in public employee areas can often be an economical prevention to false claims.

Although video monitoring has many advantages for retail businesses, there are other industrial and organization applications.  For instance, automated manufacturing processes are often completed by machinery with little to no human interface.  Manufacturing applications of video surveillance can include monitoring automated equipment or processes for any problems as well as correcting glitches within a production facility.  The benefit of having documentation for isolating a mechanical or systematic problem can be beneficial for solving a matter effectively.

Sadly, some of America’s most sacred establishments have fallen victim to random violence.  Present day reality in the United States is that no grounds are immune to criminal activity.  Since the beginning of 2012, church organizations across the United States have experienced violence on church property in Maryland, Colorado, Washington, South Carolina, Florida, Missouri, Michigan, Ohio, and Texas.  The increased violence has led many religious organizations to consider installing video security systems to help discourage, or possibly prevent violence.  This proactive measure is also beneficial by deterring vandals from causing damage to church property.

Regardless of the type of organization, business, or establishment, the benefits of a properly installed and serviced video security system outweighs the drawbacks.  The ability to protect infrastructure, patrons, equipment, inventory, employees, residents, and lives should be considered a small investment rather than an expense.  Lack of protection can result in extreme financial hardship and severely damage a reputation if an organization is proven negligent by not providing a safe environment for patrons and employees.

Expense was once a factor when considering a video security system.  Just like most other technology, the price of security cameras and digital video recorders has drastically fallen.  A quality system can be custom designed and installed at a fraction of the investment from a few years back.  Find a reputable licensed contractor to discuss your needs and obtain a free estimate…before you become a victim!

The summer months are approaching which typically equates to severe storms and damaging lightning throughout our area.  The impact of a power surge or power outage can be a devastating and costly mistake for your business.  The ramifications of not having proper protection are not only damaged equipment but also loss of communications with potential customers or consumers.  The following are some considerations to help keep your communications systems protected from power surges or power outages.

Most individuals who invest in computer hardware or other expensive electronics are familiar with surge protectors and battery back-up units.  However, many have overlooked or failed to safeguard their business communication system with properly sized and installed protection equipment.  Those who have the proper equipment in place often fail to maintain the equipment to ensure battery life is adequate in the event of an outage.

Just like any other computer, the main processor located in the chassis of the telephone system is susceptible to power surges and spikes.  Therefore it is paramount the main processor of the phone system be protected.  It is also recommended any modem, router or other powered switches be plugged into a quality surge suppressor.  Not every surge protector is created equal, thus we recommend paying close attention to the Joules rating (which defines energy absorption by the unit per single incident prior to failing).

Also consider a battery back-up unit to power the phone system during power failures or outages. The size of the main processor’s power requirements, plus the power requirements for ancillary equipment (switches, modems, etc.) needs to be considered when selecting the size of back-up and desired up time during an outage.  Keep in mind that VoIP systems rely on internet connectivity so the router and any powered switches would need to be on a back-up devic as well.

VoIP terminals (or desk telephones) rely on power as well.  While some telephone manufactures offer power over Ethernet (PoE), other telephones are required to be plugged into a wall power outlet.  Thus, either the phones need to be powered at each location by a battery back-up device, or the power injector for PoE terminals will need to be on a back-up system.

May is always a good time to ensure your business communication protection and back-up system is functioning properly.  Since batteries in back-up units do not stay viable forever, it is good practice to test the power unit to ensure your system will provide the power needed during an outage.  For extended periods of power loss, make sure you know the location of the analog telephone and plug location.  Although the modern system conveniences will not function, an analog telephone will allow you to stay connected to the outside world and take calls if your system has the analog support capabilities.

Remember, the cost of an emergency telephone system repair visit, parts, and labor can be expensive.  The potential loss of business while a phone system is out of service can lead loyal customers to find a new provider they can communicate with.  The proper surge protection system and battery back-up is an affordable and proactive business decision that should be considered prior to the annual thunderstorm season.

A business communications system is vital to the success of any operation.   Although smart phones and wireless technology continue to develop and enhance quality of business life, the wired business telephone system remains critical in a successful office.  Investing in a phone system or choosing to upgrade a current system to newer technology can be a daunting task.  Therefore, this article will guide you through the considerations to help narrow down a business telephone system that fits your needs.

First, start by determining how many lines you will need (including fax machine, credit card terminal, security system, elevator, etc.).  Then decide what type of service you have, or will be getting from your phone company.  Typically, service to your building would either be traditional CO (sometimes referred to as POTS), T-1 with a channel bank, T-1/PRI that feed directly into the phone system, or SIP Trunks via broadband.  When upgrading or choosing a new telephone system for your business you should consider an alternative to CO lines due to their cost.

Next, decide on the number of phones (or stations) needed and the type of phone desired.  Types of office phones are Onsite digital, Onsite VoIP, Offsite VoIP, Softphone VoIP, and onsite wireless handsets.  (We will discuss the differences in the types of phones and specific features in a separate article.)  Once the type of phone is determined, a good idea is to consider the user at each station and the model features necessary for that user or job function.  As an example, the operator or receptionist might need a console to be able to see all lines and extensions for ease of use and seamless call transfers.  However, an executive’s terminal might need less buttons than the operator, yet more than a secretary.

Once the number, size and functionality of the desk phones are determined, it is also worth considering the features of the system that are important to you.  The following is a list of some popular features modern business phone systems offer that should be considered.

• Computer Telephony Interface (CTI).  CTI integrates a computer with the telephone system for added functionality.  Computer-based operator console, call center software and call accounting software are excellent examples of CTI.
• Voicemail.  Consider how many users will need a voice mailbox.  Also think how you wish to receive the voicemail or notification of a new message.  An example is voicemail to email which sends an audio file of the message to your email.  Many other convenient solutions are available to enhance the voicemail user experience.
• Faxmail.  Although fax documents have declined as email and scanners gain popularity, some offices rely on fax machines to perform business vital business functions.  Faxmail is an option where users receive faxes in their email as an attachment.  Faxes can also be sent directly from the desktop to a fax machine or another computer that has fax capability software.
• Incoming Calls.  Consider how incoming calls will be answered.  Typically calls will be answered by an individual or an Auto Attendant.  If utilizing Auto Attendant it is important to consider incoming call volume when considering a new business telephone system.
• Multiple Locations.  If employees are stationed in multiple locations or spread across the globe, selecting the right system and type of system features can greatly increase productivity.

Consideration needs to be given to the type of existing internal cabling.  Traditional digital systems use Category 3 (Cat3) wiring to each location a phone is needed.  VoIP phones require Category 5 (Cat5) or higher at each desired handset location.  Some VoIP telephone systems have phones with a pass-through port which allows the phone to use the computer terminals network access.  No additional line would be needed in this instance.  Remember all VoIP phones require power to function.  Some only plug into an electrical outlet while others offer PoE (Power over Ethernet).

Finally, protecting your office telephone system investment is important.  Choose a power back-up that is sized to run your phone system and modem/router during short power outages.  Be sure to check the system warranty as well as typical costs for a service technician to visit when necessary.  Also, consider a maintenance agreement with a reputable, responsive, and authorized provider to ensure your investment continues to work for your business.