As the year progresses, developments in security technology, innovations in security procedures, and the increased communication between industry leaders are all factors leading to the improvement of the security industry as a whole. These five trends have emerged as major ideas to focus on in 2017.
Business Analytics Create Growth Opportunities
Today’s security systems are more functional than ever with integrated technology that presents incredible data-collection opportunities. Video cameras can be used to track customer hotspots, surveillance data can be integrated with point-of-sale (POS) systems to observe sales trends, and data collection allows for predictive analysis that can prevent threats and alert personnel to developing risks before they even occur.
Improvements in Camera Technology Provide Greater Resources
Camera technology has long been trending away from simple observe-and-report CCTV devices. Multi-sensor, megapixel cameras with improved stitching capability and improved glass lenses with greater zoom capability provide a high-quality picture. Better infrared illumination (IR) technology and improved low-light and Wide Dynamic Range (WDR) processing such as Dahua’s Starlight technology mean that cameras perform at a much higher level in virtually any lighting conditions. Camera technology is leading the way in expanding the functionality and efficiency of security systems.
Higher Resolution and Improved Compression Create Better Surveillance Data
Improved compression for large digital files has allowed cameras to massively increase their resolution capability and deliver incredibly detailed video in a capacity that doesn’t overload the network and is easily recallable by users of surveillance data. Cameras are being developed with 2-8 megapixels and beyond, while advanced compression allows this high-resolution video to be stored on a cost-effective surveillance system. Analog infrastructure is also being maximized, with some UHD-over-coax systems capable of providing up to 4K-quality images
Increased Communication Helps Protect Systems from Hackers
With the widespread adoption of IP devices and the Internet of Things, it has become increasingly important to ensure all networked devices are protected from intrusion and data theft. Traditional physical security teams have been joining with cybersecurity teams to mitigate risk and keep each other aware of threats. It’s no longer enough to have just IT protecting a network against potential cyber threats. While IT keeps security apprised of updates and patches required on their devices, the physical security team can keep an eye on physical attempts at hacking and on intruders. It’s becoming more essential for these teams to work together as a single security unit.
Deep Learning Provides Individualized Solutions
The creation of neural networks has led to a massive shift in the ability of security technology to tailor its work for each individual business. Machines can process huge amounts of data, more than could ever be interpreted by security technicians, and learn to recognize images, sounds, or text that present risks entirely on their own, in a process called “deep learning”. Deep learning can massively increase efficiency by comprehending data much faster than any algorithm, which often need to be recalibrated as technology changes, in addition to adapting to changing environments and business needs. Sophisticated, machine-based comprehension also dramatically reduces the possibility for human error.
Security technology is evolving at a rapid rate, and 2017 is proving to present several trends that will affect the market for years into the future. Better imaging solutions are creating increased situational awareness as a result of highly-capable camera technology that provides data far beyond video, while intelligent analytics and deep learning are massively increasing the efficiency and capacity with which these devices function. As security technology improves, keep these five trends in mind to operate an efficient, cost-effective system that does more for your business.