Selecting a VMS can seem to be a daunting task – every software suite has their own strengths and weaknesses, often obscured in spec sheets multiple pages long. While some of these features may seem inconsequential, there are four features that are worth the effort to track down if you want to create a long lasting surveillance solution.
The first thing to check for is camera compatibility. Once you select your cameras, verify that the features you need on those cameras will be functional within the VMS. It’s not uncommon that a camera is “supported” by a VMS in that it will receive video from the camera, but it may be lacking functionality on the features that made you choose that camera in the first place – such as auto tracking, specialized PTZ controls, two-way audio, and so on.
Second, make sure that the VMS can be expanded after the installation. It’s not uncommon that the user will want to add more cameras after the initial configuration. Make sure that they can expand as needed – both by adding cameras and by adding additional sites that can be connected to the original installation. No matter what your customer encounters in the future, they should be able to expand without having to remove the VMS and start over with a new brand.
Third, and on a similar note, make sure that the VMS is not restrictive with client and feature licensing. If you are selecting a VMS that restricts how your client can view the video – be it through a limited number of clients, inability to view remotely, lack of support for mobile devices, and so on – be sure that your customer completely understands these limitations and is content with them.
Finally, I recommend selecting a VMS that is based on an open platform and supports integration with other systems. As everything is moving towards the network, more and more VMS solutions are integrating into other physical security systems that used to be considered “stand-alone,” such as access control. By tying access control and surveillance together into one software suite, customers can have a more easily managed and cohesive security system.
A video surveillance system is only as good as the sum of all its parts. Make sure you’re customers are getting the most out of the system, starting with the video management software (VMS). A lot goes in to selecting the right VMS, but here are some important questions you should be asking.
1. Scalability – A small video surveillance system will often have different needs than a large system, but how long will that system stay small? Take into consideration future growth plans and the subsequent needs the customer will have so you can select a VMS that will complement projected growth. Do they need multi-site viewing and management? How many cameras are supported per server?
2. Ease of use – Usability is an important aspect for many customers. Be sure to consider the following questions when selecting a VMS.
Is it easy to learn? Manage? Install? Operate?
Is training required/available?
Can they easily push and share video?
How easy is it to use forensically (e.g. search video for objects, locations, directions, colors)?
What kind of interface is it? Is it browser-based or does it require thick-client?
Does it support video-walls or touch-screen interfaces?
Is it available on an appliance or do I have to provide the server for the installation?
Is there a mobile client (iOS, Android)?
Is there a case management log for a guard to manage incidents?
3. Complexity – Determine your customer’s expectations for the system. Are they looking for basic or more complex features? Does the customer require analytics or business intelligence? What types/level of intelligence? Integrated analytics such as motion detection, tamper alarms, events produced by I/O devices, etc.
3rd party analytics integration. Do they plan to integrate access control, POS, building management or other systems?Do they need support for audio recording, cloud-based recording, local edge recording or Corridor Format (9:16 aspect ratio)? Will they need to access video over low bandwidth connections? Will any customized development be needed? How is chain of custody managed? Do they have their own proprietary viewer that ensures 100% authentic video? Can they scale the video to provide high frame rates over low-bandwidth? Is it supported by PSIM developers?
4. Licensing – Every VMS provider handles licensing differently, so it’s important to understand the requirements.Is it per camera, or is it a package deal?
What’s the model for updates?
Do you have to pay to keep the system current?
5. Reliability – IP video systems provide options for reliability that analog can’t and can often be maintained remotely. However the integrator must understand how to manage the system:Does it have smooth software updates and can handle different environments?
Are there backups and disaster recovery capabilities?
Is edge storage support available if network connectivity is lost?
What kind of technical support is available?
6. Openness – The VMS should tie in with the rest of the system seamlessly, so you can avoid compatibility and usability issues. Can it integrate many technologies, including analytics? Is it ONVIF compliant?
7. Flexibility – This point ties in closely with another key point: scalability. Systems will change in size and needs, so the better the VMS system can handle these changes the smoother the process will be over all. How easily can you adjust your system (expansion, relocation, technology advancements)?
8. Performance – How can the system actually be used by the business owner and staff?Is there support for remote access and multiple users? Is there compatibility with mobile devices?
9. IT Security – If you left your keys in the car, then you’ve rendered your alarm system virtually useless. Same can be said for a surveillance system.Is there authorization into the system and authentication of the user? Does it integrate to active directory?Does it support the same security protocols as other devices/software on a typical network and can devices (IP cameras, encoders, servers, etc.) be managed?
10. Hardware recommendations – The VMS could have all the bells and whistles in the world, but it’s only as good as the hardware it’s running on (just like any software program). Processor, memory and storage requirements
H.264 client support Cameras per screen recommendations
