PARTNER SOLUTIONS
The flexible advantages of cloud security to help retailers post-lockdown Morphean’s retail segment lead, Andy Martin, explains how hosted security solutions can help the retail industry unlock intelligence and improve operations. The COVID-19 pandemic has added to the challenges already being faced by many retailers. As infection rates slowly decrease and businesses open their doors once more, there is much to consider. With staff and customers returning to the shop floor, retailers will need to maintain the controls that have given staff and customers the confidence to shop. Implementing a new operating model changes the store’s performance and resourcing, requiring close attention. Efficiency is the key, and data can provide real insights to manage the change successfully, trade profitably and avoid further lockdown measures. The pandemic has taught the retail industry that it’s better to be prepared for every eventuality in an increasingly uncertain world. Cloud technology demonstrated its value under lockdown,
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manifestly evident in the surge in use of video conferencing platforms that kept people connected. Change was implemented with lightening speed and in complete confidence globally by a variety of businesses. It is this technology that can also be utilised to help retailers ensure the safety and security of their premises as well as meeting operational goals. The cloud has transformed business across many sectors; it is immediately scalable, easily managed from one central location and visible to the entire organisation. CCTV now forms part of a wider IoT world where connectivity and customisation make most things possible. CCTV should not stand alone with only surveillance in mind. Here we explore some of the many flexible benefits to help retailers rise to the challenge.
Cloud technology: Secure, flexible and easy to deploy Cloud-based video surveillance and access control solutions are built around an ‘as-a-service’ operational expenditure (OpEx) business model which offers many key benefits to the retail organisation. Video surveillance as-a-service (VSaaS) and access control as-a-service (ACaaS) offer complete flexibility in that they can be easily deployed via an existing IT network, customised and scaled up or down to directly match spend to the operational need and business challenges. Importantly, they are also backed by the latest security software and firmware upgrades, for a solution that’s always up to date and online. In contrast, solutions built around a traditional capital expenditure (CapEx) model are quicker to age and less futureproofed.
