Digital transformation: a new era for network video

Linn Storäng, Regional Director Northern Europe

Connecting a video camera to a network revolutionised the physical security industry. Axis first unveiled the NetEye 200 back in 1996 and it was one of the first ever Internet of Things (IoT) devices. And little did we know, this innovative technology was an early example of digital transformation in action.

At the time, the full capabilities and potential a network camera afforded could scarcely have been imagined. Today, network cameras are utilised across every industry and sector, both indoors and outdoors, in all weathers, with advanced analytics and artificial intelligence (AI) allowing them to perform ever more complex tasks that fully support both business operations and traditional security requirements.

Video sensors, as part of a rapidly growing Internet of Video Things (IoVT), are increasingly being used as powerful business intelligence tools to streamline and optimise processes. One camera can collect metadata on an enormous number of diverse parameters and process that data in real-time to deliver actionable insights at speed.

Of course, this widening scope of capability puts the physical security community in a strong position as the digital transformation agenda gathers pace. But we are also witnessing increased appetite from beyond the physical security space. As hardware and software technology providers seek to solve end users operational and efficiency challenges, video is becoming a valuable and transformational data source.

This shift has been made possible by the innovative technology onboard Axis cameras, such as the latest ARTPEC-8 chipset enabling deep-learning analytics on the edge. This can help to vastly improve operations within almost any environment. In the industrial sector, for example, cameras can monitor manual production lines, utilising remote working capabilities to ensure smooth operation based on analysis of video data in real-time. Such capabilities also serve to enhance and complement people, freeing them to undertake tasks requiring greater skill.

As we look to better harness the potential of machines to boost productivity and efficiency, we should also point to the benefits of a leaner use of resources and less waste. Deploying a network camera system that is designed for optimal power consumption is better for the environment and will ultimately represent cost savings to businesses from an energy point of view.

The use of software applications and edge processing, for example, preserves only the important forensic detail which means only relevant video data is passed back through the cloud for storage or wider analysis, saving on bandwidth and energy by an average of 50%. In addition, the use of reusable and recyclable materials in the manufacturing of cameras supports a greener business agenda in line with an ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) framework.

The ability to help multiple industries through new and varied applications of surveillance technology opens a whole new world of possibility, both for Axis’ physical security and technology integration partners. Everyone can benefit greatly from developing knowledge around the full capabilities that network cameras now afford, enabling them to foster stronger partner and customer relationships, both with existing customers and when pushing into new markets.

I hope you enjoy this issue of #AxisInnovates as we explore the robust and cutting-edge solutions that are unlocking a smarter, more connected and more efficient world for modern industry.