Is IP Video Surveillance Necessary?

Many businesses fail to factor into their business plan, and their early investments, until after they are robbed of the crucial tools needed for doing business in this modern age, computers.

Loss prevention and security is a key concern for businesses, especially in the start up stage where a loss of stock, or assets can cause serious issues for the business’s growth. Video surveillance is a strong deterrent for thieves, because film footage of their crime can dramatically increase their chances of being caught, and once arrested film footage is very strong evidence against the would-be criminals. Many amateur thieves will only break into properties that are clearly undefended, without cameras and easily accessible entries.

IP Video Surveillance is just like classic, crime-stopping video surveillance, but with one critical difference. The extra value and defining feature of IP Video Surveillance is the way that data is captured, shared and stored. The key challenge for business owners is the feeling of invasion of privacy of their employees or local community. Whether the business owner pre-empts this feeling, or you face complaints from staff, or locals, you will need to closely consider whether or not the cameras have valid, valuable reasons to be installed. There are three questions to ask yourself to identify your need for cameras.

What are you trying to protect?
If you need to protect products, or cash or files then video cameras are probably are wise investments, to deter people from breaking into your premises to steal actual goods. If however you are primarily online and the most valuable asset you have then you should probably invest in increased online security such as backing up your sensitive data.

Can your business afford the data loss and increased insurance premium that will come from your computer being stolen?
Or perhaps the question is more, do you have to? Even with the best offsite data storage (speak to computer support to get that happening, it’s a must) and a good insurance plan, how will a robbery affect your teams morale, and your relationship and standing as an trustworthy, reliable expert with your clients? As unfair as it seems, many customers will feel that if you can’t protect your own office, then why would they trust you with their details and needs.

Are video cameras necessary?
What are the crime rates like in the area where your office is? Is your office in a central, well lit location? If you share an office in an office block, once someone has breached the front door, how easy is it to break into your own personal office? Do you think that your property would be better protected with cameras? Does your insurance company offer you a lower premium if you’ve taken active steps to minimise the risk of loss.
You may never be broken into, but remember that a room full of computers with a petty cash box somewhere is incentive enough for house thieves, so don’t take that risk with your business.

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