Voice of our partners

Jouni Virta

Alarm call-outs reduced by more than 50%

Rene Piiparinen and Mika Aro from Securitas talks to Axis’ Jouni Virta about the benefits of adding network speakers to perimeter security solutions.

Many infrastructure companies’ sites and projects are located centrally in the cities, which makes them a natural target for intruders and vandalism. However, there are ways to tackle this problem.

"This is a construction site and a protected area. It is now closed, please leave the area."

This message comes from an Axis network speaker at a construction site in Finland, it has shown to be effective in providing alerts and scaring off intruders. In this article, Rene and Mika from Axis partner Securitas explain why.

Effective complement The Finnish construction company Kreate had problems with intruders entering its construction sites, especially in the evenings and at night so Kreate requested an upgrade of its existing security system from its partner Securitas, to keep intruders at bay. Securitas commissioned the installation of Axis network speakers to complete the Kreate security system that consisted of existing surveillance cameras and alarms.

Rapid response AXIS C1310-E Network Horn Speakers are now connected to the perimeter protection of the construction sites and are activated automatically if anyone crosses the perimeter and trespasses, and a pre-recorded voice message is played. If the intruders fail to leave, an operator at an alarm centre is alerted. The operater switches on a real-time public address system and informs that the intruders are being monitored on camera and that security guards and the police are on their way.

"These speakers are easy to install. They provide a rapid response to alarms and are effective when it comes to scaring intruders away from the sites," says Rene Piiparinen, Solutions Manager at Securitas, who designed this voice solution. For Securitas, this means that there are significantly fewer call-outs for its guards every night.

The speaker can also be used to instruct staff in emergency situations.

"The number of call-outs has fallen dramatically. On average, we're seeing between a third and half as many call-outs as before." Mika Aro, Sales Manager Securitas

An open system Rene Piiparinen highlights the open system as one of the primary advantages of Axis products and solutions, "Integrating Axis products with other devices and products, even from other suppliers, is straightforward and easy."

"We also appreciate the range of features and analytics available, and it's easy to upgrade and add different features when we need them."

The advantages of Axis products and solutions are also emphasised from a longer-term perspective.

"Axis is constantly developing products and features that can be integrated and updated with existing solutions and systems, making Axis products futureproof," says Rene Piiparinen.

Long-term cooperation Securitas has been an Axis partner for a long time and greatly appreciates the close and straightforward cooperation and communication.

"It's easy to get in touch with people and obtain good support, both locally and from head office. We receive great training and documentation that we can share with our customers. We also appreciate having direct contact with Axis, with no middlemen," says Mika Aro.

Saves time and money The speaker solution saves both time and money for security companies as guards do not have to physically go out every time an alarm is triggered from a security installation. Situations can often be handled remotely instead. Many intruders leave the scene when faced with the fact that they have been observed and caught on camera, and security guards and police are on their way.

For Kreate, this has reduced the risk of construction sites being vandalised and subject to theft, which can result in unwelcome disruptions and problems with ongoing work.

Another advantage of the speaker solution is that it is mobile; as soon as a building project is completed, Securitas can move the security solution to another construction site.

But Kreate is not the only company that has had problems with unauthorised visitors in the evenings and at night; Securitas has had Axis network speakers installed as part of security solutions for schools, restaurants, recycling companies, power stations and other businesses to enhance safety and security. "Both we and our customers are very pleased. I'm pleasantly surprised by how much more effective our security solutions are now when we've added Axis speakers." Rene Piiparinen, Solutions Manager, Securitas

One-stop shop solutions Rene Piiparinen has seen a general increase in demand for outdoor security systems in recent years. The aim is normally to deter intruders, not catch criminals. Moreover, there is a growing demand for solutions that are one-stopshop, where customers want one point of contact. Demand is also growing for intelligence and analytics to be integrated into products.

"We're seeing more and more advanced features, which means that businesses, including ours, can act much more proactively in the event of intrusions and alerts," says Mika Aro.

Rene Piiparinen has some advice for businesses planning to install security solutions.

"Choose a supplier with a good reputation, good references and good people. Choosing a futureproof solution and looking at total cost of ownership from a long-term perspective, five years and beyond, is crucial." Rene Piiparinen

Learn more: www.axis.com/en-gb/products/ audio/security About Kreate https://kreate.fi/en/ One of the leading Finnish infrastructure construction companies, employ some 450 experts in construction. The 2019 turnover was approximately EUR 220 million. Kreate professionally delivers a wide range of infrastructure construction projects in any environment based on our solid, extensive expertise.

About Securitas www.securitas.com Securitas is a leader in intelligent security and safety services. Securitas offers solutions for surveillance, technical security, fire protection and risk management. The group operates in 48 markets and employs 355,000 people.

Daren Lang

Innovations in ANPR and the benefits of a trusted partnership

Steve Clift, Convergint, talks with Daren Lang from Axis about a relationship between their companies based upon high levels of professionalism and shared values, and explains how ANPR solutions have evolved.

How long has Convergint been in operation? Convergint is a global, service-based systems integrator which has just celebrated its 20th anniversary since opening its Chicago-based headquarters in 2001.

Following a recent round of acquisitions, Convergint now has 195 office locations globally, with over 5000 staff. In addition to being listed as the number one systems integrator in SDM Magazine's Top Systems Integrators Report for the past 3 years, Convergint was also awarded 2020 Integrator of the Year and Financial Market Partner of the Year by Axis Communications at its Axis Connect and Converge Conference (ACCC), hosted in the US. The Axis award recognised outstanding strategic partnership qualities, proven technical aptitude and front-running sales performance. What are your thoughts on the partnership with Axis? How has this benefitted your business? As a global company, we pride ourselves on listening to our clients’ needs and responding quickly, wherever they are based. One of our original Values and Beliefs is to ensure we are our customers’ best service provider – this is something that still drives our business today. To do this effectively, we only partner with providers who offer the highest quality security technology and are true experts in their field.

At Convergint, we have a strong foundation of Values and Beliefs, on which our entire company is built. It’s essential to us to work with like-minded businesses. Axis Communications ticks all the boxes in terms of the quality of its solutions and the core values around which it bases its business. Axis was also the company that first adapted IP technology in the video surveillance market, so they are absolutely leaders in the physical security space.

How is Convergint helping to revolutionise the use of number plate recognition technology? Automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) technology typically uses a purpose-built, dedicated camera system. This has inherent cost implications to keep running, and because of a lack of any real push to develop the technology, it has missed out on the advancements that the rest of the industry has enjoyed.

A benefit of our global presence is that we are able to look at the application of security technologies across the world, making comparisons to determine how various tools are currently used and how they could be improved. In the case of ANPR, we were able to look at how police

"At Convergint, we have a strong foundation of Values and Beliefs on which our entire company is built. It’s essential to us to work with like-minded businesses. Axis Communications ticks all the boxes in terms of the quality of its solutions and the core values around which it bases its business."

forces were using the existing technology to determine what was working and what wasn’t. Our findings revealed that drastic improvements were needed. This resulted in Convergint bringing the advancements of IP network camera technology into the ANPR market.

Can you elaborate on the use of network cameras for ANPR and summarise the benefits? Traditional ANPR cameras are used because of their accuracy and read rate. They capture car number plates successfully, and then use 3/4G and landline comms to send data back to the police headquarters for processing; this is a cumbersome and time-consuming process. The big difference here is that Axis cameras have the processing speed that was only available in ANPR cameras, hence the step change.

Axis network cameras have now evolved to the extent that they are more than capable of replicating this accuracy, making them ideal for ANPR purposes. Their significant processing power means they can also analyse video using onboard software, speeding up the relaying of information by sending only relevant snippets of meta data back to base. Axis cameras, combined with highperformance number plate recognition software, results in a powerful IP solution which is fully digital and totally mobile.

The advances in 4G and 5G comms as well as the ability to transmit images via Wi-Fi results in fast and efficient data transmission while the system can run from a battery that provides up to 10 days of continuous power without the need to recharge. How will this system improve operations and are there plans for future development? Axis cameras breathe new life into what was essentially a very one-dimensional solution, capable of delivering limited results. As the cameras are designed on open standards to be connected to other devices and systems, this introduces the potential for greater situational awareness by bringing further cameras and sensors into the equation.

For example, consider a busy city where a criminal drives at high speed through red lights, putting pedestrians and other road users in danger. The ANPR solution can collect car number plate and speed data from the vehicle as it passes, but now other cameras, connected to the same system, can provide additional data.

This results in a wider and more overarching view of the entire situation, providing the police with far greater detail than an ANPR system alone. In terms of future plans, we are currently in negotiations with police to establish further trials in the UK which, once complete, will allow us access to multiple government frameworks and a wider rollout of the technology for the benefit of more police forces.

"Axis cameras breathe new life into what was essentially a very onedimensional solution."

Learn more: www.convergint.com

www.axis.com/solutions-byapplication/license-platerecognition

Bob Patel

Benefits of a trusted partnership, dedicated support and high-quality end-to-end solutions

Mark Buxton, Director, Fox Tango Asset Protection, talks to Bob Patel about the ongoing relationship with Axis and explains why reliable, fully supported solutions are the only option for a safer future.

How long has Fox Tango Asset Protection been in operation? Although relatively new, my colleagues and I come from solid backgrounds within the electronic security, emergency systems and radio communications industries. We also have expertise in security risk assessment and threat awareness. Our team's combined 40-year operational background encompasses a huge wealth of experience and knowledge. This ranges from protecting critical national infrastructure sites and providing support to industrial and commercial premises, right through to network infrastructure and cybersecurity.

What are your thoughts on the partnership with Axis? How has this benefitted your business? Our primary goal as a business is to support our clients’ needs. We effectively become part of the team. With Axis, we are also made to feel like part of the team and have been fully supported with every project that we have undertaken using Axis’ solutions. They are very knowledgeable and constantly offer help and advice. Having a dedicated key account manager, technical support, and, of course, the Axis Academy for building on knowledge around both existing and forthcoming Axis solutions, is fantastic. As technical specialists ourselves, we don’t require technical support very often, but when we do need it, it’s there. It’s not just read from a script but is provided as part of a genuine personalised service from a company that really cares about its partners. This desire to help and to see its partners flourish makes us feel well supported.

"We protect critical assets, buildings, perimeters and people. We simply cannot use solutions with questionable credentials. This is one of the main reasons that we chose Axis." How do Axis solutions compare with others on the market? There is always something new in production, whether that is new firmware, new chips or brand new hardware. The technology combined with Axis’ approach to partner relationships and customer service puts them well ahead of other industry manufacturers. In my experience, there are far too many ‘fit and forget’ products on the market; cheap off-the-shelf technologies that do

not meet customer needs and are simply installed and then forgotten about, with no customer aftercare.

With Axis there are assurances as to the longevity of each solution, such as a detailed service management plan. This is the difference between specifying a dedicated end-to-end security solution to meet long term customer objectives, rather than just putting up a selection of poor quality technologies and hoping for the best; not a smart option in a world where physical crime and cyber crime are continually on the rise.

Does the openness of Axis solutions add to their appeal? The Axis product range is robust and its ability to operate across open platforms for ongoing development and integration with other partner solutions is certainly a big plus point. With other products and other manufacturers there are too many unknowns. At Fox Tango, we protect critical assets, buildings, perimeters and people. We simply cannot use solutions with questionable credentials. This is one of the main reasons that we chose Axis.

Can you tell us about any projects and provide examples of the solutions? One of our first projects was with a food manufacturer who wanted a highly secure, yet highly adaptable, security solution. This comprised video surveillance cameras with onboard edge analytics for intrusion detection; twoway intercom using Axis network video door stations; and an IP audio system; all controlled using AXIS Camera Station. Specifying an end-to-end solution from a single manufacturer makes the entire system much simpler.

"The Axis product range is robust and its ability to operate across open platforms for ongoing development and integration with other partner solutions is certainly a big plus point." You are an advocate of AXIS Site Designer. Can you explain why it is so important? Generally, we specify and design everything before we go out to a site. It’s not commercially viable to hold large amounts of stock at our premises, so by using AXIS Site Designer we can put together a whole solution virtually and know exactly what inventory we need.

We have many upcoming projects, some of which will utilise exciting products that we are looking forward to working with. AXIS Security Radar, for example, will allow customers to detect human and vehicle movement, providing advanced intrusion detection and passing an instruction to PTZ cameras, enabling the tracking of movement. This is a very powerful solution with wide ranging applications across a variety of industries and sectors, and AXIS Site Designer makes it incredibly easy to illustrate to the client. Do you have any final thoughts about the current physical security requirements of your customers, and the role that trusted partnerships play? All Axis products are designed to meet end user needs. It seems simple, but it’s surprising how many customers will put up with a ‘make-do’ solution because they are not fully aware of their options. It’s important to realise that many solutions are not tailored in any way, and often consist of a mix of off-theshelf products that cannot be properly integrated.

Axis really is ahead of the curve in that respect, listening to customer requirements and offering solutions that allow for fluidity, customisation, scalability, and integration to ensure that exact customer requirements are met and often exceeded. Using such technology gives us confidence in our ability to deliver high quality solutions, and we know it gives the customer confidence in us, and in Axis.

Learn more: www.ftap.co.uk

Matt Robson Head of Sales and Marketing Welcome Gate

Anya Chupryna

High-quality security solutions help support furniture retailer’s EU expansion

Matt Robson, Head of Sales and Marketing at Welcome Gate, talks to Anya Chupryna from Axis about an exciting new project made possible through innovative technology and a long-term partnership with Axis.

Can you provide an introduction to Welcome Gate? Welcome Gate has been in operation for over 15 years and specialises in tailoring bespoke security packages to suit individual business needs. Our expertise covers video surveillance, access control and intruder & fire alarms.

Welcome Gate prides itself on its dedication to delivery and exceptional customer service; taking a consultative approach to support its customers and work closely with them to deliver a solution that ticks all of the boxes, fully meeting their expectations.

Can you explain your latest project and what the main challenges were? We were first approached by a wellknown London-based furniture designer and retailer to specify and install a system that would improve the security of their regional offices. Following recent expansion which has seen the opening of several experiential showrooms across Europe and four large storage warehouses, we were again asked to develop a solution to protect the vast quantities of furniture held across the sites.

The solution needed to be able to provide protection both inside and outside the premises around the clock, even in lowlight conditions.

Key factors were that the system should be able to facilitate remote monitoring from any location, removing the need for security personnel to be continually present on site. It should also be cyber secure, protecting the network by removing the risk of security technologies presenting a vulnerability.

How did Axis become involved as a technology partner? Welcome Gate has enjoyed a close working relationship with Axis for almost five years. Axis was the first company to put a camera on a network, and the resilience of their solutions combined with their longevity and expertise makes them the natural choice for such a project.

Axis stands as a shining example of how to do security correctly. In a market where products are often hastily produced with low levels of quality assurance and poor transparency in the manufacturing process, Axis solutions represent high quality and reliability.

Furthermore, Axis’ strong ethical foundation underpins its manufacturing process, and its unwavering dedication to sustainable practices is something to be greatly admired and emulated.

Which Axis products were chosen for the project? 34 Axis cameras were installed across the site covering various points both indoors and out. AXIS Lightfinder, installed across the cameras, results in clear surveillance data even in low light, and outside the premises during adverse weather conditions.

The video feeds are managed through two systems running AXIS Camera Station video management software that also utilise two network video recorders. The cameras and recording technology are connected using seven Power over Ethernet (PoE) network switches.

How has the customer found the new solution? The customer is very happy with the new system and the quality of the Axis products. Right from the outset account managers from Axis and Welcome Gate sat down with the customer to design and specify the solution using AXIS Site Designer software. This allowed them to play an integral part in the process.

The finalised solution allows them to monitor video feeds either on-site in a central control room, or away from the site via mobile device. The ability to record, edit and quickly package video for the attention of the relevant authorities has given managers, operations staff and security personnel a renewed sense of confidence as a result of feeling better protected.

With regards to this project are there any future plans? The customer’s rapid expansion means that we will be replicating this solution across additional sites. In addition, they are looking to bring other elements of their business in-house. For example, rather than using an external photographer to create images of their product range, they are instead opening their own photography studio. This will also need to be secured. Such is the scalability of Axis’ solutions, we can easily build upon the existing system to provide additional protection, even adding third party solutions where required by taking advantage of Axis’ open standards. Creating a future-proof security system for the customer that can evolve in-line with their business was always a priority, and we are already looking at how IP audio and access control can be incorporated in our next phase.

Learn more: https://welcomegate.com