IP video – It’s not just for Big Business Anymore!

IP video – It’s not just for Big Business Anymore!

The video surveillance industry has experienced substantial growth over the past few years. Competitively priced IP video surveillance solutions entered the market, making IP video surveillance increasingly attractive to small business owners.¹ Now’s a great time to target the small business market, as there are two major business opportunities – businesses with outdated analog systems and businesses without any system whatsoever.

Why should small businesses upgrade their dated analog systems to IP systems? The video surveillance industry has experienced substantial growth over the past few years. Competitively priced IP video surveillance solutions entered the market, making IP video surveillance increasingly attractive to small business owners.¹ Now’s a great time to target the small business market, as there are two major business opportunities – businesses with outdated analog systems and businesses without any system whatsoever.

Why should small businesses upgrade their dated analog systems to IP systems?

IP systems are future-proof
What started as an industry trend is here to stay (Internet of things anyone?). IP systems are a worthwhile investment, as they are completely scalable. Instead of ripping and replacing with a larger solution five years down the road, your customers can easily add to their existing solution when they want, one camera at a time! Access control, hosted video solutions and advanced technologies, such as analytic applications, are also easy additions.

IP systems provide better resolution and image quality
Video images from analog systems degrade when traveling over the network, leading to poor image quality that can make it hard for a small business owner to respond when critical actions should be taken. IP systems automatically digitize video images, making for crisp and ready to use images.

IP systems are affordable long-term
Upfront costs of an IP video surveillance solution might seem daunting to a business owner, but IP systems are actually cost-effective. Installation is typically quicker and maintenance isn’t as intensive in the long-term. Additionally, IP systems address many other pain points outlined below, further justifying the cost of a system.

Why should small businesses invest in a video surveillance solution?

Eyes on their business 24/7
Reducing robbery and inventory loss are initial motivators for a small business when purchasing a video surveillance solution.² Small business owners want their businesses to be protected around the clock for ultimate peace of mind.

Remote viewing
IP video systems enable users to view live video streams on their mobile devices. Small business owners often wear many hats, so they’ll feel comforted that they can easily watch over their business wherever they are.

Training and staffing
Recorded video can be used to effectively train employees and determine optimal staffing levels. If a small business owner notices daily operations aren’t up to par, they can sit down with employees and review the video to explain the correct way. Video will also reveal slow and peak times to improve staffing levels.

Inventory management
For small business owners, it’s critical to know when to restock shelves and how to best place specific items to increase the chance of a sale. Video footage can support inventory decisions for improved operations.

No matter which type of small business you stumble across, you can solve their day-to-day business needs with an IP video surveillance solution. IP solutions are worthwhile investments and small businesses will benefit in more ways than just reviewing incidents.

1. SDM Magazine
2. MarketWatch