5 Benefits of video cameras

Video surveillance protects against outside break-ins and burglaries. It also plays a critical role in sustaining your business and making it a safer workplace.

Purchasing a few reliable surveillance cameras for your business security can yield a high return on investment. Using current technology, video surveillance is less expensive than hiring security officers and offers more flexibility. You can monitor the 24/7 footage in real time from any location with an internet connection.

Let’s look at the ins and outs of security cameras, including how to choose one for your company and why you should consider adding them today.

How security cameras work

Security cameras record video footage of activity inside your company buildings and around the premises. In many cases, 24/7 surveillance through continuous video recording (CVR) is available.

Additionally, many security cameras have built-in motion sensors that activate your security system at the slightest hint of activity. This function works whether the activity detected is beneficial or harmful for your business, but some cameras offer smart detection to distinguish between threatening and non-threatening movement. You can also program security cameras to send alerts when they sense motion.

Wired security cameras

Wired security cameras are physically connected to onsite video storage devices such as network video recorders (NVRs) or digital video recorders (DVRs). The cables that connect your cameras to your storage devices often power your cameras. Additionally, many wired security cameras offer Ethernet cable connectivity, which enables you to view footage remotely.

Wireless security cameras

Wireless security cameras forgo most cables and transmit recorded video to the cloud instead. This wireless technology lets you view your security camera footage anytime from a mobile app or desktop computer. You may still need to power your cameras through traditional electric cables, but some models use rechargeable batteries that require no cables.

Many wireless options offer notable security camera benefits that wired cameras don’t. For example, some can determine whether the collected footage is of a package delivery rather than an actual cause for alarm. Others can even distinguish between the people who shouldn’t be on your premises and harmless visitors to which other cameras might needlessly alert you. Most wireless security cameras can also integrate with smart home systems such as Amazon Alexa and Google Home.

Benefits of video cameras for businesses

1. Crime Deterrence

Visible security cameras act as a deterrent to potential criminals. Knowing they are being monitored discourages trespassing, vandalism, and other illicit activities.

2. Evidence Collection

In the unfortunate event of a crime or incident, security cameras provide valuable evidence. Recorded footage can be crucial for law enforcement investigations and insurance claims.

3. Employee Productivity and Accountability

In a business setting, security cameras help monitor employee activities, ensuring productivity and accountability. They discourage time theft and inappropriate behavior, fostering a more secure and efficient work environment.

4. Preventing False Claims

Security cameras can protect businesses and individuals from false claims or lawsuits. In cases of accidents or disputes, recorded footage can serve as an objective account of events, preventing fraudulent accusations.

5. Remote Monitoring

Many modern security camera systems offer remote monitoring capabilities. Users can access live feeds and recorded footage from their smartphones or computers, providing real-time visibility and peace of mind, especially when away from home or the office.

6. Visitor Verification

Security cameras at entrances serve as a means to verify visitors. Whether at home or in a business setting, cameras help identify individuals before granting access, enhancing overall security.

7. Reducing Insurance Costs

Installing security cameras can lead to reduced insurance premiums for both residential and commercial properties. Insurers often offer discounts to those who take proactive steps to enhance security.

8. Monitoring High-Risk Areas

Security cameras are invaluable in monitoring high-risk or vulnerable areas, such as cash registers, storage rooms, and parking lots. This can help prevent theft, vandalism, or unauthorized access to critical spaces.

9. Emergency Response Coordination

In emergency situations, security cameras provide real-time information to emergency responders, helping them assess the situation and respond more effectively. This is particularly useful in cases of fire, break-ins, or medical emergencies.

10. Traffic Management

In public spaces or commercial areas, security cameras aid in traffic management and surveillance. They can be used to monitor parking lots, control traffic flow, and enhance overall safety.

11. Child and Pet Monitoring

For homeowners, security cameras provide a way to monitor children and pets when they are not in direct view. This ensures their safety and well-being, offering peace of mind to parents and pet owners.

12. Business Insights

Beyond security, cameras can provide valuable business insights. Analyzing customer behavior, traffic patterns, and employee movements can aid in making informed business decisions, optimizing operations, and improving customer experience.

Cons of business security cameras

Despite the many benefits of business security cameras, there are also some reasons you might not want to use them.

“Without a good reason [to buy one], I recommend against cameras,” said business consultant Anthony Babbitt. “Cameras are an expense and can undermine employee relationships. Also, they only record in small businesses which cannot afford to have someone watch them 24/7, so you still need a method to detect whatever you were trying to prevent with the cameras.”

As Babbitt said, employees might feel like you don’t trust them if you install a massive surveillance operation to track their movements. Some people disagree with Babbitt, though, believing that businesses should have security cameras for peace of mind. Babbitt himself isn’t firmly on one side or the other. He said that businesses with good reason to mount a security camera should certainly consider making the purchase.

Another potential hassle is tracking the footage and then figuring out what to do with it. If you only have a five-person team, which employee will spend an hour or two skimming security footage for red flags? It’s unlikely that many of your employees will want to sign up for that.

Again, these potential drawbacks don’t necessarily mean you shouldn’t implement a business surveillance system, but you should consider them before investing. Of course, it doesn’t have to be a huge investment. Some security cameras are available for under $100. If you want a more comprehensive system, it will cost more, but the one-time purchase of a business surveillance system shouldn’t break your business financially.

If you’re on the fence about getting a video surveillance system, consider the pros and cons. Is the cost of installing cameras to monitor employees, customers, and other people in or around your store a strong investment to deter theft or an unnecessary expense? Whether or not you need a security surveillance system depends on the unique security needs of your business.