4 Security Systems Questions Most Business Owners Would Never Think Of

With the New Year approaching, now is the time that many companies start to evaluate new projects as well as where capital outlay is needed or desired. Security systems are one of the areas that many companies regard as a “If it’s not broke, don’t fix it” mentality.

However, most business owners aren’t aware of how incremental and continual improvements in your commercial security system usually end up costing less over time, and have a higher employee safety factor. That does not include the rise in efficiency when it comes to your security staff, reduction of time needed for training, and an increase in the overall security of your company and building.

Here are four questions that most businesses won’t even think to ask themselves when evaluating their security needs:

       1.   How much is a good employee worth to me?

Most employers do not connect their security systems with the worth or productivity of their employees. However, many industrial buildings are in areas that have higher crime threats, or are more of a target to potential criminals. Employees are often more affected by these risks than an employer, simply because they are the ones on the front lines of an attack.

They also have the continual distraction of looking over their shoulder at odd noises, unfamiliar people or potential threats during evening or night shifts, or in industrial or urban areas. It’s not just job safety, it’s personal safety that becomes affected. An employee that needs to be on the lookout for potential threats is more anxious, less productive, and more likely to take personal time, because of the additional strain of monitoring for potential issues.

A strong security system allows an employee to focus more on their work, less on distractions or potential issues. Less anxiety and a higher feeling of safety results in fewer vacation days, fewer employees being late, and fewer sick days. And there’s a good case for lower employee turnover as well. These savings alone will probably cover any additional costs associated with improving your security system.

A prospective employee that sees a strong security system and an employer that is willing to invest in their employees’ safety through security systems is also more likely to accept a desired position              .

      2.  How much money will I save by deterring 1-2 major workman’s compensation suits per year?

While you may do everything possible to maintain employee safety, the truth is that accidents can and will happen, especially in a business with a large amount of physical labor. In this issue, your best offense is a good defense.

In terms of security that means stronger access control monitoring, higher quality cameras with fewer blind spots and better integration of systems. These measures deter a lot of false or questionable cases that eat up valuable time, resources and money. They can also provide valuable evidence in an actual case.

      3.   How much money will I save on my commercial insurance premiums or deductible with a stronger security system?

When was the last time you looked into updating your business insurance? One of the underwriting aspects of business is the strength and quality of your security system. You can actually reduce your premium or deductible with a better security system. Staying up to date and continuously improving your security system can also reduce claims made to your insurance, keeping premiums low and reducing capital expenditure.

      4.  How do these savings make my business more profitable?

At the end of the day, while we want to provide the best systems and resources possible to and for ourselves and employees, there’s always a piece of the conversation that has to come back to the bottom line: how does this affect my profit?

None of the measures above improve your incoming revenue. Some people would be quick to write

these measures off because since they don’t bring in more revenue, how can they make you more money?

Which brings me to a favorite phrase about top and bottom line revenue: “Top line is vanity, bottom line is sanity.” It’s not just about bringing revenue in, but keeping more of the money you’re making. This area is where small changes and continual investment in your security system can result in reducing your expenses throughout the year, which overall lead to higher profitability for your company.

Also, if you’re looking to reduce your taxes for the year, a capital expenditure like a security system is an excellent tax deduction. For a free quote or consultation, please contact Quinlan Security Systems at 708-478-0707.

Where do You Start When Discussing a New Commercial Security System?

Evaluating a new or updated commercial security system can be very confusing because of all the options available. Speaking with different potential vendors can cause even more issues because of the variety in solutions that they offer. Internal discussions with top level staff can create more stress because everyone has a different perspective.

If you’re wondering how to evaluate your needs and the solutions, here are a couple simple steps you can take to determine your needs and priorities. Arming yourself with this information prior to discussions with outside vendors will make your decision process easier and outline the criteria for a successful security system.

1. What are my priorities?

We know that deterring crime, keeping workers compensation cases to a minimum, top quality security and peace of mind that it’s being handled are top of mind when making security decisions.  Beyond that, are there certain pieces of your system you want to have remote monitoring, better video surveillance, more flexibility with certain points of entry?

Now’s the time to start with a wish list of what you want in a new or updated security system. You can also start by noting the top problem areas or issues where you receive the most complaints.

2.  Do an evaluation of your current security system.

List out the good things that are covered in your current security system. Next, list out problem areas whether the technology, coverage or quality is falling short. Also, what’s the ease of use and training time required for new employees? These answers, paired with your wish list, are your starting point when talking to security systems. These requirements will help vendors list out the equipment and service that you would need.

      3.  Are there are upcoming changes, moves, additions to staff, equipment or anything else that’s going to change my requirements?

Since most companies grow and change over time, even if something is in the works for 1-2 years out, it should be considered in the security requirements for your system. Many security systems can be used for 3-5 years and more, considering the level of technology required for your system and how criminals or disgruntled employees will respond to those changes.

     4.  What’s your budget?

While we would all love to have the Cadillac of security systems, that always comes with a price tag. Discussing budget before, during and after initial discussions with potential security companies helps to set realistic expectations of what can be procured for your company.

Setting these expectations is important for both internal personnel (especially decision makers with no knowledge of security costs) as well as your potential vendors. Your vendors can then put together options that they know will work for your based within your price range.

If you’re still struggling with your requirements for a commercial security system, please reach out to us at 708-478-0707. We would be happy to set up a free assessment for you to determine what you need and a proposed solution.