Security is traditionally seen as a service that isn’t completely dependent on computers or software. Though cameras might be one “technological” aspect, along with shoplifting gates, and code-restrictive entries, we have yet get physical security to the level where we no longer need people to provide it. However, for the time being, there is always someone watching that camera and computing what shows up on the screen, just like you need security guards to escort unruly customers and inappropriate individuals, or approach those who appear to be taking something that isn’t theirs.
Though you still need people to run a full-fledge security program, it doesn’t mean that software can’t be a significant component of it. Putting the two of them together means that you get an elevated version of your service, as well as the ability to track, monitor, and ensure the effectiveness of your security team.
Instant & Efficient Reporting
Instead of having your security guards stop what they are doing and fill out an extensive paper report form at the scene of an incident, now you can install a mobile app on their phone that allows them to do it instantly. No more carrying it around the entire shift, and waiting until the end of the day for the back office to deal with the problem. Instead, get a pop notification that a team member has filed a report and it’s time for you to act. Additionally, the system is portable, easy to use, and you can store additional information like location coordinates and corresponding photos.
Create a Tour
How do you ensure that your security team is actually scoping the area instead of sitting on a park bench? Modern software will allow you to create a “guard tour” that the guards have to walk past and scan with their phones to prove that they were there. You will be able to track when they visited a certain location and whether they completed the tour at an appropriate pace.
Track the Team
Did someone complain that a certain guard is visiting locations he shouldn’t be or vice versa? If so, you have the possibility to track the location of each individual using real time GPS data. For a more hands-off approach, you can program certain “geofences” that will trigger a notification every time a member of the team enters or leaves the area, giving you more knowledge and control of the situation at any given time.
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With all the data being collected, stored, and sorted, you have a much better picture of your security situation than if you were still on a paper system. This can help inform future decision making around location stops, preventative measures, expectations, and more. It gives you the ability to gain maximum value from every member of the team and tweak the system to deliver the best service.
Communicate Better
Security services also means responding to ongoing events. Being able to communicate with members of a team seamlessly is important for effective and efficient reactions. Security software will allow you to assign individuals to certain tasks, set off a prefabricated workflow, and track the entire event in real time.
Though full-fledge physical security is still far from being completely covered by technology, when you get security management software that consolidates all aspects of your security environment seamlessly, you make the most of your manpower. This is just one example of how powerful software can be and how it can affect the level of service provided in industries that are traditionally seen as “low-tech” and dependent on the physical presence of a team.
