Electronic security is often considered a luxury in the business community, but today these systems should no longer be considered an afterthought. Electronic security systems can be comprised of not only fire detection systems, but also Electronic Access Control, Intrusion monitoring, and video surveillance. Everyone agrees that fire detection and suppression systems are a necessary safety component to protect both the businesses personnel and property. As a business owner, electronic security should be considered just as important. Each of these systems provides a specific form of safety and security for the business.
A traditional intrusion or burglar alarm system is the most common form of electronic security installed at most businesses. These systems are generally used to provide protection of the businesses’ property after business hours. In more comprehensive systems, the intrusion system will be designed and installed to report panic or duress conditions within the business during normal working hours. Their operation is identical to that of the fire detection systems. When an alarm is activated the alarm signal is transmitted through one of three transmission mediums to a monitoring station. The monitoring station will evaluate the incoming signal and respond based on a predetermined protocol established with the owner. This response may include notifying specific people within the business prior to notification of law enforcement or just notification of law enforcement.
Video Surveillance is another common form of electronic security within businesses. These systems are typically used to document events within and around a business. Many businesses will design their video surveillance system to provide general coverage of the interior of the business and basic exterior surveillance. In designing a video surveillance system, a lot of consideration should be given to the purpose of the video installation. Questions that should be considered are what am I trying to accomplish? Do I want to just see what is going on or do I want to be able to identify the subject in the video? With the recent advances in Artificial Intelligence (AI), video surveillance can now be utilized not only as a forensic tool, but also as an active partner in business operations. Today’s video surveillance systems can be used to assist businesses in customer queuing, determining direction of movement, and creating announcements based on a video scene are just a few of the analytics that can be employed by businesses to not only document events but also improve efficiencies within the facility.
Electronic Access Control is arguably the most robust form of electronic security a business can employ. A properly deployed access control system can provide businesses with real time control of operations and protection of property, assets, and personnel. A company’s access control system can be used to control access to sensitive locations such as record rooms, warehouses, Information Technology (IT) spaces, and business entrances to mention a few. One of the largest benefits of installing an access control system is the reduction in issuance of physical keys to employees. In the event of a key loss, it can cost the business thousands of dollars to re-key the business. By using access control within a business, a form of electronic credential is issued to each employee. These credentials can be developed and issued to employees. If an employee loses their issued credential, it can be simply turned off to prevent unauthorized use by anyone who may find the credential. Other functions that can be managed using an access control system include automatic unlocking of buildings or portions of buildings, locking down buildings or sections of buildings in the event of an emergency, and providing an audit trail of personnel entering sensitive spaces within the business.
When considering security for your business, any of the three options or combinations of the options discussed will increase both the safety and security of your business and your employees. The most important thing to consider in developing and installing your electronic security system is that you, as the business owner, work with a security integrator who shares your company’s values and goals. Working with an integrator who shares these values and goals will make the process much easier to initiate within the business.
Why Architectural Specialties Stands Apart
Ultimately, the effectiveness of any electronic security system comes down to one critical factor: the people who design, install, and support it. That’s where Architectural Specialties stands apart. With local, factory-trained technicians and dedicated teams based in Rapid City, South Dakota, and Gillette, Wyoming, Architectural Specialties delivers fully integrated electronic security solutions that go well beyond basic protection combining electronic access control, intrusion monitoring, and intelligent video surveillance into systems tailored to how each facility actually operates. Their ability to seamlessly integrate electronic security with door hardware, automatic openings, and life-safety infrastructure gives businesses a true one-stop solution and long-term peace of mind.
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This thoughtful, experience-driven approach is exemplified by the insight shared in this article by Melvin Bender, Electronic Security Project Manager at Architectural Specialties, whose hands-on knowledge reflects the company’s commitment to practical design, reliability, and real-world performance. When security matters, partnering with a team that understands both the technology and the environment it protects makes all the difference, and that’s why Architectural Specialties remains the go-to electronic security integrator across the Black Hills and northeastern Wyoming.
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