● Special Report
Teknocorp
TEKNOCORP STEPS UP Melbourne-based electronic security integrator Teknocorp has built a new office, incorporating meeting, technical, project and training facilities, as the company takes its evolution to a new level. EKNOCORP has moved into new facilities at Altona North, a central location that gets the team closer to its customers and suppliers. The new facility is one of the neatest security integration setups we’ve seen, covering all the fundamental requirements of a busy security business, while creating an inspirational environment with plenty of flow. As part of the move, the company has installed Inner Range Integriti access control and an Avigilon video surveillance solution, with a Gallagher system still to come. These cutting-edge solutions provide opportunities for demonstration, as well as showcasing the team’s integration skills. But for all the pleasing aspects of the new facility what struck SEN most when we visited recently was the passion of the team. According to Teknocorp’s MD Rob Portelli, the new office, which is located near the hub of Melbourne with excellent access to roads in all directions, is a statement of intent, an inspiration, a reward, and a practical move, all rolled into one. “The new office is closer to the city – that’s a big thing because it saves our techs time,” says Portelli. “We
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have positioned ourselves in a really good spot, the facility is purpose built for us, our staff were involved in the design of the facility and I think what we have ended up with is excellent. The new building is ideal for our needs and it will be inspiring to our staff and our brand.” Portelli says all Teknocorp’s suppliers have got on board and provided their latest solutions for the team to install as part of the new facility, including Inner Range Integriti, Avigilon, Gallagher and others. “Our own team built much of the environment and integrated the security technology we have installed here,” Portelli says. “The building access control and alarm system is Integriti, with Sifer readers, but we will be adding other solutions – we want the building to be agnostic so as to highlight the possibilities of the latest security technologies. We will also incorporate solutions from Hikvision, as well as from Gallagher, including visitor management. “On the CCTV side we are Victoria’s largest supplier of Avigilon solutions and to showcase these we have an Avigilon ACC system and Avigilon cameras. The Avigilon platform is a good story for us – we have some great applications of this solution, including an Avigilon, Indigovision and Gallagher solution that looks after a major water utility. We are also working on 37 floors for Victoria University using Integriti and Avigilon, so there’s plenty to talk about there.” While the built environment, particularly the work triangle, is important, the network design is vital, too. “From a network perspective, our internal IT team took on facility’s network as a project,” Portelli explains. “This was more complex than it sounds. Before the move, we had 2 offices and 2 networks running side by side. Ultimately the cutover process was so seamless all people had to do was pick up their laptops, pack up their screens, and walk out. When they set their gear up in the new place, everything worked as it had before.” Portelli explains that while some elements of the new facility were planned, others suggested themselves along the way. “As an example, I need a desk that raises and lowers so I can work standing up and thought why not do that for the entire team?” Portelli says. “As a result, everybody has the same flexible desk that can be adjusted up or down as required – they can sit or stand, depending on the work being undertaken. “We haven’t skimped on the design, the fit-out, or the sub systems – it’s been a serious investment – in a way we look at this as our contribution to supporting local businesses battling their way out of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.” When we walk into the building immediately to the left is a wonderful meeting space. It’s based on a neat idea that takes advantage of the building’s layout.
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