The Challenges Facilities Managers Face When Trying to Manage Security Solutions and AV Systems
Maintaining efficiency, obtaining cost-effective upgrades, and ensuring overall operational effectiveness, are just a few of the challenges faced by Facilities Managers, when it comes to trying to manage security solutions and AV systems in their organisation.
Ensuring that the building’s facilities are up to date is central to the smooth-running of any organisation. There is nothing more frustrating for users of the building than when the aging AV equipment is intermittant or the security of the building is compromised or severely lacking. Security and AV upgrades ensure that organisations can better meet the increasing demands of their employees, visitors or tenants.
Here are a few strategies we would recommend for facilities management improvement:
Embracing Technology
Professional Installation: So you’ve decided to invest in up to date equipment and solutions and you’ve chosen a bespoke system but you have enlisted a below-par installer. You may have been trying to save a few pennies by going with the cheapest provider but in reality, investing in a certified or reputable company will not only guarantee optimal performance of your new equipment but will actually save you money in the long term as the solution is likely to last longer. To help you find the right installer, it is always best to take the time to carry out due dilligence of the providers you are considering, including asking for details of previous customers that you can speak to directly for honest reviews. This may sound as though I’m stating the obvious, but so many buyers are afraid to ask the question. It is so important to verify the services you are investing in and any professional installer would be only too happy to provide you with willing referee details.
Protech Solutions is proud to use our own inhouse installation teams. Our experienced engineers are all fully DBS checked and have received full training in all Health and Safety requirements in alignmment with our CHAS accreditation (Construction Health & Safety). We always ensure our engineers adhere to our H&S policies and prodedures and are fully accountable to provide the very highest quality of installations.
Maintenance and Monitoring
Service Level Agreements (SLAs): One of the most effective ways of managing existing AV and Security equipment and getting the most value out of your equipment, is through maintenance and monitoring. All too often, we see solutions not being looked after and replaced prematurely. Failure to maintain your systems, severely limits the overall lifespan of the equipment. It is always best to invest in a 6 monthly review of your equipment or indeed, have a maintenance contract in place to periodically measure and monitor performance and do any necessary fixes. This is much more cost-effective than replacing the equipment prematurely. Establish clear SLAs with vendors to ensure timely support and maintenance services.
Effective Collaboration and Communication
Audio Visual (AV) Platforms: From interactive presentation screens to video conferencing and digital signage solutions, meetings, events and business productivity are being enhanced more than ever before with bespoke AV solutions.
AV systems can integrate with security cameras and access control systems to enhance surveillance and security management, providing real-time monitoring and recording capabilities. Advanced AV systems provide high-definition audio and visual support for presentations, conferences, and events, making them more engaging and professional. Facilities equipped with AV systems can live stream events and record sessions for later viewing, extending their reach and accessibility. AV systems can integrate with room scheduling software to manage meeting room bookings, ensuring optimal use of space and resources. High-quality video conferencing systems enable seamless communication between remote teams, clients, and stakeholders, reducing the need for travel and saving time and costs.
Remote Management of the Solutions
Cloud-Based Solutions: Make your role as an FM easier by managing your solutions through cloud-based solutions. For example, an IP surveillance system can be managed from any device. You can access live footage on the NVR and keep on top of any potential breaches or security incidents, using automated alerts, lockdown procedures and communication plans. You can also optimise your time by controlling your equipment on the go, via mobile devices.
Ready to Upgrade your Security and AV Systems?
We have helped many Facilities Managers, who have all benefitted from our complete and comprehensive range of AV and Security services, industry expertise, innovative technology, and customer-centric approach. We ensure that their facilities are equipped with reliable, efficient, and cutting-edge AV and security systems and we will do the same for you.
