Video Monitoring vs. Onsite Security: Best Option for Your Commercial Property

When it comes to securing commercial properties, there are a lot of factors to consider. One of the most important decisions is whether to rely on remote video monitoring or onsite security guards. Both options have their pros and cons and choosing the right one can have a significant impact on the safety and security of your property.

In this blog, we’ll explore the benefits and limitations of both live video monitoring and onsite security guards and offer advice on how to choose the best option for your specific commercial property.

Commercial property owners have a variety of options when it comes to securing their property. Two popular options are live video monitoring and onsite security guards. Both options have their own advantages and disadvantages, and choosing the best one for your property depends on a variety of factors.

Live video monitoring uses cameras and software to monitor a property in real time. When a potential security threat is detected, an operator can quickly respond and take appropriate action. On the other hand, onsite security guards physically patrol the property and can respond to threats in person.

Ultimately, the decision between live video monitoring and onsite security guards depends on the specific needs of each property. Factors such as budget, property size, and level of security needed should all be considered when making this decision.

In recent years, live video monitoring has become an increasingly popular choice for businesses looking to enhance their security measures. By leveraging the latest technology, live video monitoring offers several key advantages that can help protect your property and assets.

Here are some of the key benefits of live video monitoring that you should consider when evaluating your security options: 

Live video monitoring provides 24/7 surveillance of your commercial property. This means that the property is monitored around the clock, ensuring that any suspicious activity is detected and responded to immediately. This level of surveillance is not possible with onsite security guards, who need to take breaks and cannot be in multiple places at once.

Live video monitoring is a cost-effective option for commercial properties. It eliminates the need to hire and manage onsite security guards, which can be expensive. Additionally, live video monitoring companies often offer flexible pricing plans, allowing businesses to choose a plan that fits their budget.

With remote video monitoring, business owners can access the footage from anywhere with an internet connection. This means that they can monitor their property remotely, ensuring that everything is running smoothly even when they are not physically present. This level of access is not possible with onsite security guards, who are limited to the physical location of the property.

One of the biggest advantages of having an onsite security guard is their physical presence. The mere presence of a security guard can act as a deterrent for potential criminals. Additionally, security guards can patrol the property, ensuring that all areas are secure and free of any suspicious activity.

Another advantage of having an onsite security guard is the human interaction they provide. Security guards can interact with employees and visitors, creating a sense of safety and security. They can also provide assistance to those who may need it, such as helping someone find their car or escort them to their vehicle.

In the event of an emergency, an onsite security guard can provide an immediate response. They can quickly assess the situation and take appropriate action, such as contacting emergency services or evacuating the building. This quick response time can be crucial in preventing or minimizing damage and harm.

While there are benefits to onsite security guards, it’s important to acknowledge their limitations. As in many cases, onsite security guards may not always be able to physically intervene in a dangerous situation, and in some cases, their presence may not be enough to deter criminal activity.

Some of the possible limitations could be,

One of the major limitations of onsite security guards is the potential for human error. Guards can miss important details or overlook potential threats, leaving the property vulnerable to security breaches.

Cost is another limitation of onsite security guards. Hiring and training onsite security guards can be significantly more expensive than implementing a video monitoring system. This can be a deciding factor for commercial property owners who need to stay within a budget.

Another limitation of onsite security guards is their limited coverage. A single guard can only be in one place at a time, leaving other areas of the property vulnerable. This can be especially problematic for larger properties that require more comprehensive security measures.

In situations where a high level of security is needed, such as in high-crime areas or during high-profile events, onsite security guards may not be the best option.

While onsite security guards do have their own advantages, such as providing a physical presence and personalized security services, live video monitoring can be a more cost-effective and efficient solution for many commercial properties. The ability to monitor multiple areas at once, provide valuable video evidence, and quickly alert authorities to potential threats make live video monitoring a superior choice in many situations.

When it comes to securing your commercial property, choosing between live video monitoring and an onsite security guard can be a tough decision. Each option has its own benefits and drawbacks, and ultimately, the best choice will depend on your specific security needs and budget.

To help you make an informed decision, there are several important factors that you should consider before choosing between these two options. 

The size and layout of your property can greatly impact your decision. For larger properties with multiple buildings or areas, live video monitoring may be a more cost-effective option as it allows for remote monitoring of multiple locations at once. On the other hand, smaller properties may benefit from an onsite security guard who can quickly respond to any incidents.

The level of security needed for your property is also an important factor to consider. If your property is at high risk for theft or vandalism, an onsite security guard may provide a greater sense of security and deterrence. However, if your property has lower security needs, live video monitoring may be a more practical and cost-effective option.

Another limitation of onsite security guards is their limited coverage. A single guard can only be in one place at a time, leaving other areas of the property vulnerable. This can be especially problematic for larger properties that require more comprehensive security measures.

In situations where a high level of security is needed, such as in high-crime areas or during high-profile events, onsite security guards may not be the best option.

Onsite security guards can be more expensive than live video monitoring, especially if multiple guards are needed for larger properties. However, live video monitoring may require a significant upfront investment in equipment and installation.

Both options can be effective in deterring and responding to security threats. However, live video monitoring can provide a more comprehensive view of the property and can detect potential threats before they escalate.

Onsite security guards can provide a more personalized touch and can adapt to changing situations. Live video monitoring can be more rigid, but it can also provide 24/7 coverage and can be easily scaled up or down as needed.

The decision to choose live video monitoring or onsite security guards depends on the specific needs of each commercial property. While onsite security guards can provide a physical presence and personalized security services, live video monitoring can be a more cost-effective and efficient option that addresses many of the limitations of onsite security guards.

At spotter security, we offer comprehensive security solutions, including live video monitoring to meet the unique needs of each commercial property. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help secure your property.

We would love to hear your thoughts and experiences regarding live video monitoring and onsite security guards. Leave a comment below and let us know which option you prefer and why