Choosing a Security System for Your Small Business
As a small business owner, you need more than just a security camera or burglar alarm. You need a security system that is built for your business, with accessible features that are easily used by you and your employees, while also being professionally monitored by a team of experts.
Now, you might be thinking to yourself: “I don’t need all that.”
Actually, you can really benefit from a security system, and here’s why: in 2019, business shrink—the loss of inventory due to employee theft, shoplifting, fraud, cyber crime, and other crime—accounted for 61.7 billion dollars in losses for small and large businesses.
Business security is important. It is especially important for small businesses that cannot absorb loss in the same way a mega-corporation can.
If the security of your small business relies on a hacked together collection of security devices, hard-earned money may well be walking right out your front door. You can greatly reduce loss with a security system that is built specifically for your small business, with all the tools you need to effectively use and monitor the system.
You can try to cover all your bases with DIY security devices, but unless you are incredibly thorough, your business will remain vulnerable.
DIY security is an easy way to protect your business and save money, right? In reality, a DIY security system for your business is not as capable nor as comprehensive as a professionally installed system. The money you save initially is lost the second you have to deal with an intrusion, fire, or other costly security breach.
When you invest in a professionally installed security system, you get robust features, tools, and professional security monitoring that actually keeps your business, inventory, and employees safe and secure.
If you decide to take the DIY approach, or if you do nothing, then chances are your business will remain vulnerable. You may have to deal with recurring theft, inventory loss, and property damage (not to mention potential increases in general operation costs and insurance premium costs due to recurring issues). These are typical problems that all contribute to the aforementioned 60+ billion dollars lost to shrinkage annually.
Hire a security company with a background in commercial security systems.
To get the most value out of your security system, and to realize an actual return on investment, you should do some research to find a security system that can meet your needs.
If you can find a security vendor that combines custom system integration, ease of system use, and reliable customer service, then you are well on your way to functional security.
Of course, every commercial security company can claim they do the above. So what should you look out for?
There is a lot of security tech out there. You might think that every vendor can install pretty much everything you need, whether it’s access control, fire alarms, or security cameras. But that’s not true for all security companies. Some providers are more specialized, or just don’t offer all the security systems you might need.
A security company that can meet all your needs can make the whole installation process and ongoing monitoring services easier and more convenient. And it’s not like you have to go with five different systems when you only need one—with one security vendor that can do it all, you get the security you need, with the benefit of being able to add more security features as you deem necessary.
Your security company should conduct a security review to determine the security system specs your business needs.
The first step in building a security system customized to your needs is determining what those needs are. Understanding areas of weakness—whether it be employee theft or a recent string of break-ins—will maximize the effectiveness of your security system. If the security company that you decide to hire doesn’t work with you to determine these needs, consider hiring a different company.
A basic business security audit should consist of a:
Risk assessment: A risk assessment helps you identify risks in your business’s security, technology, and processes. This is a great way to establish your current security systems and policies (if any), and prioritize areas of risk exposure to remedy, from critically important to not important, so you can make informed decisions on what security equipment and systems you really need.
Loss assessment: Consider any loss that your business has sustained. Was it due to employee theft? Shoplifting? Break-in? Fire damage? Understanding what losses have occurred and why is paramount in determining the type of security systems that your business needs. If you can pinpoint the gaps in your current business security system or plan, then you can better equip your business with the right equipment and technology that prevents loss from happening.
Compliance audit: Federal, state, and local regulations may require your business to be equipped with certain security systems. While this may not apply to every business, it can’t hurt to review code to determine if any requirements apply to you. If your business fails to comply with code, it may be a safety risk for your business and employees, and may also cost you money in penalties and fines. You can always speak to a local professional security company like Bay Alarm that understands codes and regulations that apply to your business.
It’s important to get a top-down view of your business’ current security system. If you don’t know what issues your business faces, then you cannot adequately protect your business from loss.
At this point, you’ll know exactly what security you need and your security company can begin installation.
A comprehensive, professionally installed security system tailored to the needs of your business is the best way to protect your business and reduce loss.
Loss is a serious issue that affects the bottom lines of businesses all across the country. One of the best ways to reduce loss is with a business security system customized to fit your needs.
We’ve met with thousands of small business owners who realize their business is vulnerable but just don’t know how to go about getting the security they need. That’s where we come in, with unique security solutions for the unique challenges that you face.
We can equip your business with:
- Security cameras
- Live video monitoring
- Burglar alarm system
- Fire alarms and smoke detectors
- Alarm monitoring
- Access control
- Patrol and response
Unlike some security companies, we don’t offer instant online quotes. We work with you, at your business, to determine the security devices, components, and systems that you need, then draw up plans to install the system. The best way to maximize the security of your business and reduce loss is to understand your needs and address them head on.
If your business is dealing with loss, you can put a stop to it with expert security solutions from Bay Alarm. You can get everything you need—from a security audit to professional installation and 24/7 alarm monitoring—with Bay Alarm!