In part one of this blog series, we examined the background behind hospitality security and the expanding threat landscape that contributes to the need for stringent yet creative security strategies. We highlighted video surveillance and video intelligence technologies as viable solutions, and in part two of this series, we’ll dig deeper into their extensive benefits and introduce a recent hospitality study commissioned by Oncam.
Not only are intelligent solutions valuable for achieving comprehensive security systems, but increased convergence has given security management the opportunity to become an essential contributor to the overall success of a business as well. The collaboration between IT and physical security enables advanced network communication, and security professionals can now enhance other departments including finance, human resources, operations and marketing.
Despite these widespread advantages, according to a study in the International Journal of Contemporary Hospitality Management, some hoteliers see security measures as an unnecessary expense or find it awkward to maintain high security standards while preserving their hotel’s hospitable and welcoming image. But the rising threat of security incidents and malicious attacks on soft targets have made it clear that efficient safety measures are imperative.
Precautions, proactive security planning and emergency response must be practiced within the hospitality industry to mitigate a number of risks, including fire, theft, injury, natural disasters, vandalism and, in some cases, terrorism. A hotel’s brand reputation is paramount to ensuring business success, and the majority of guests look for lodging that is safe and well maintained.
Achieving this goal involves using a variety of systems that work together to create a comprehensive, connected solution, such as fire and intrusion alarms, access control, video surveillance, video management systems and data storage systems. These allow today’s hotels to not only gather evidence in the event of an incident, but also view footage in real-time to thwart potential issues. In particular, video surveillance enhances both security and basic business operations in numerous ways, including optimizing staffing, improving guest services, protecting brand integrity, monitoring compliance and mitigating insider threats such as employee theft and workplace violence.
Hotels have a lot to consider when it comes to security, including balancing cost with the return on investment. While all risks cannot be avoided and challenges are present, most properties are addressing emerging threats through enhanced security techniques and technology.
To provide a detailed look at the needs and concerns of hotel security professionals, Oncam sponsored a study to help identify the issues these businesses face, how buying decisions are made and the barriers to technology adoption. Professor Alexandros Paraskevas, Chair in Hospitality Management at the University of West London, conducted the survey with assistance from the International Centre for Hotel and Resort Management. Hotel security executives were approached for face-to-face, semi-structured interviews, and of those invited to participate, 65 percent took place in the one-hour process. In part three of this series, we’ll explain the questions asked and begin an in-depth look at the opinions gathered. To read the full white paper, visit here.