Steve Prodger, Chief Revenue Officer, Arcules explains why cloud-based systems can give businesses a competitive advantage.

Cloud-based video surveillance is becoming increasingly popular as businesses seek to leverage the benefits of flexible and scalable solutions. The use of cloud-based services has grown significantly in recent years as companies look to scale their operations rapidly and efficiently while reducing costs and optimizing their operations.

Cloud services provide businesses with the agility to adapt quickly to changing market conditions and customer demands. They can access data and applications from anywhere, anytime and on any device, leading to increased collaboration, productivity and innovation. Additionally, cloud computing reduces the need for expensive on-premises infrastructure, allowing companies to redirect their resources towards developing new products and services, enhancing customer experiences and driving business growth.

Increasing interest

While the adoption of cloud-based solutions in the security industry has been slower than in other sectors, there is a growing interest in the potential benefits of cloud-based video surveillance. The simplicity of the software as a service (SaaS) approach is the primary reason for this increase. However, there are other far-reaching impacts to consider, including centralization, flexibility and scalability, intelligence derived from data analysis, data security, automatic updates and cost efficiency.

One of the most valuable components of the cloud is centralization, which allows users to access information from anywhere using a range of connected devices. One platform contains all pertinent data, meaning stakeholders have real-time access to the most relevant and up-to-date information if there is a security, human safety, operational or business crisis. This level of access is essential for businesses that want to stay on top of their operations and react quickly to emerging threats.

Flexibility and scalability are also essential features of cloud-based video solutions. A cloud solution for storing and managing video data allows for rapid adjustment and agility as a company grows or its technology systems become more advanced, reducing the complexity that might come with expansion. This kind of flexibility enables businesses to remain agile and competitive in a fast-changing marketplace.

A case study

The simplicity of cloud-based solutions is one of the primary reasons why businesses and organizations are turning to the cloud. The city of Carson, California is a great example of this trend. By selecting a cloud-based video surveillance system with a straightforward user interface, the city has been able to streamline its operations and reduce training time for its employees.

With the cloud-based solution, the city now has a centralized view of all the facilities it manages, making it easier to monitor activity and respond to issues in real-time. The system also includes real-time alerts and alarms that notify stakeholders when cameras go offline or are tampered with, enabling operators to respond quickly and effectively from anywhere and at any time. This ease of use is a significant advantage of cloud-based solutions and highlights the potential benefits of cloud technology for organizations of all types and sizes.

In addition to its ease of use, the cloud simplifies communication between various stakeholders. For example, the Northwest Fire District needed to share footage quickly and easily with law enforcement without having to go through the hassle of saving large files to portable storage devices. Additionally, the district wanted the flexibility to choose its own cameras. With a cloud-based video solution that supports over 6,000 camera types, the district is no longer locked in and can use the devices it prefers without worrying about compatibility issues.

Operational efficiencies

Intelligence derived from data analyzed and stored in the cloud is another significant benefit. The cloud provides stakeholders with more insight into daily operations, helping to ensure that all organizational and security goals are met. With the ability to analyze vast amounts of data in real-time, businesses can make more informed decisions, anticipate problems before they occur and take proactive measures to address emerging threats.

Data security in the cloud is a highly discussed issue, but the cloud can enhance data protection with proper protocols in place. Stakeholders can protect sensitive data from bad actors by utilizing vulnerability testing, password etiquette, software patches and encryption. Additionally, public cloud providers have invested significant efforts into ensuring their networks are protected and provide superior uptime. This level of protection gives businesses peace of mind, knowing that their data is secure and protected from unauthorized access or theft.

Automatic updates take the burden off IT departments regarding system management, as upgrades and security fixes are automatically installed. Cloud services are, therefore, exceptionally beneficial for organizations with limited or non-existent IT teams, as it takes maintenance and operational concerns out of their hands. This kind of automated maintenance ensures that businesses always have access to the latest technology and can focus on their core competencies instead of worrying about software updates and system maintenance.

Cost efficiency is a term used when discussing cloud deployment because an SaaS model can be much more affordable than a hardware-based model. Deploying a cloud-based solution substantially reduces an upfront capital investment, introducing more of a service-based arrangement instead of paying for video data, storage and add-ons they use. This shift to a more flexible, subscription-based model is an essential trend for businesses that want to manage costs effectively and maintain competitiveness in the marketplace.

Here to stay

Let’s face it – cloud-based video surveillance is a game-changer for businesses that seek to optimize their security posture while reducing costs and enhancing operational efficiency. The cloud’s benefits, outlined above, are too significant to ignore.

As businesses continue to face evolving security threats, the adoption of cloud-based video surveillance becomes increasingly critical. By leveraging the cloud, businesses can gain a competitive advantage, streamline operations and protect their assets and employees more effectively. It’s time for businesses to recognize the potential benefits of cloud-based video surveillance and start taking advantage of them and that time is right now.

About the author

Steve Prodger is Chief Revenue Officer of Arcules, where he guides and inspires the team to realize strategic gains while seamlessly aligning top revenue-generating channels with global expansion. An accomplished and enthusiastic senior executive with more than 20 years of experience, Steve has an impressive track record of achieving profitable growth through business, operational and technology transformations that deliver better customer experiences and high-value sales.

With significant expertise in B2B SaaS sales leadership, he has a keen ability to create scalable pathways that generate strong demand and results. With previous leadership roles at DELL Technologies, InMoment, SmartAction and XSELL, he expertly managed multimillion-dollar budgets, accelerated business development globally and drove double-digit growth.

This article was originally published in the May edition of Security Journal Americas. To read your FREE digital edition, click here.