by Randy Montelius
11.23.2020
Each system you rely on for security, communication, and collaboration plays a specific role. But, if they’ve been in place for a while, the systems probably operate in silos. (The fire detection system identifies smoke, heat, and flames and provides early warning. The digital signage system displays messages and content. And neither one really cares what the other is doing.)
Sometimes, that approach works. Other times, it can create problems. (Example: The fire detection system sounds an alert, prompting people toward the stairs … while the digital signage system displays a pre-programmed message telling building occupants to use the elevator because work is being done in the stairwell!)
You get much more out of your systems when they complement one another. Instead of operating for a single purpose, systems can be integrated to interact with one another and then respond based on what’s happening.
We think a good goal for 2021 (in addition to better communication, which we discussed in a previous blog) is to consider how your systems might play well together. This doesn’t necessarily require an investment in new technology. Sometimes, what you have can be integrated to work together. What better goal to set than one that boosts your return on technology investments, improves efficiency, and automates processes?
Examples of Technology Integration in Action
Almost any system CEC designs and installs – from two-way radios to intercom and paging systems – can be integrated for smarter responses.
Consider an access control system, for example. It can be connected to a video management system (VMS) and surveillance cameras (perhaps systems you already have in place) to improve security. Why have separate systems acting alone when they can work together to do more?
Instead of your access control system managing authorized entry while your surveillance system keeps watch over building entrances and the parking lot, these two systems can work together. Integrating access control, surveillance, and a VMS can create time-stamped records of people entering your building (which is especially helpful during this pandemic for contact tracing purposes). You can easily locate footage of specific events instead of searching through archives to determine when someone entered your building.
Nurse call systems are another good example. Their capabilities span far beyond connecting patients and nursing staff. They can be integrated with phones, patient whiteboards, RTLS systems, and even access control and surveillance systems to gather and display relevant data and add value to the care process.
Real-World Integration Projects
Integrating your technology requires the help of a specialist … and this is exactly where CEC can help. Not only do we have in-house experts who know AV, fire and security, healthcare communications, IT, and two-way communications, but we also know how to design and integrate these systems so they work together flawlessly.
For a community college in Iowa, for example, we integrated access control, a VMS, and surveillance cameras to help staff visually verify authorization before building entry. If someone unauthorized attempts to gain access, notifications are sent immediately. If these systems weren’t connected across campus, no one would know when someone without proper credentials was trying to enter a campus facility.
For a well-known food manufacturer, we integrated fire alarm systems with paging, two-way radios, and displays located around the facility. No matter where the emergency response coordinator is, he knows exactly what’s happening anywhere in the plant so problems can be detected for faster response.
Tell us what you want to accomplish; we can create a roadmap unique to you, taking into account the technology you already have and what you may need later. In some cases, it’s possible that you can achieve your goals without purchasing new technology.
Want to learn more? Reach out! We’re happy to answer your questions!
Vice President of Technology Randy Montelius joined CEC in 1982 and has held positions in field operations, service, sales, management, and engineering. Today, he applies his passion for technology as he helps employees solve complex business issues for customers.
