5 Ways Security Integrators Can Help Commercial Property Managers Rebound From COVID
Industry experts claim that the pandemic is having a greater impact on commercial real estate than the global financial crisis did in 2008.
Without a doubt, 2020 was a challenging year for most. The pandemic impacted virtually every sector and commercial property was no exception.
Besides lockdowns, many companies completely changed their operations and property managers found themselves in a very challenging situation. Not only did they have to deal with the pandemic but they also had to address the health and safety needs of their tenants.
Industry experts claim that the pandemic is having a greater impact on commercial real estate than the global financial crisis did in 2008. While it is true that the pandemic brought tragedy and difficulty, it also presented security integrators an opportunity to provide outstanding service. Here are five ways security integrators are able to help commercial property management:
1. Shift From Vendor to Advisor
COVID-19 was the definition of a black swan event. A Black Swan event is an event in human history that was unprecedented and unexpected at the point in time it occurred. Since there are no manuals for black swan events, property managers had to search for answers and rely on their trusted vendors for support.
In response to the crisis, many property managers wanted more information about remote monitoring, access control and the use of AI for social distancing. While the situation has settled to a certain extent, security integrators are still in a position to educate and guide their customers as they adapt to this new reality.
2. Understand Their Operational Reality
During normal times a professional security integrator can simply meet with a client, conduct a basic assessment and provide some practical solutions. 2020 was anything but normal and a basic assessment is not enough. The shift to a remote workforce and demand for Cloud-based technology call for an even deeper understanding of a client’s needs.
As more companies implement remote schedules, onsite property management teams need professional support to help them navigate the world of remote monitoring and Cloud-based solutions. Security integrators that take the time to understand their client’s operational reality will be better able to deliver value.
3. Share Best Practices
Let’s face it, security integration can be complicated under ideal circumstances. Throw in a global pandemic, new safety regulations and plenty of other stressful situations and you have the perfect recipe for nonstop confusion. Sharing best practices with clients is a great way to deliver value and earn their trust.
During uncertain times clients want practical information they can depend on. The information does not have to be too detailed or technical. It should consist of actionable and helpful tips that they can easily understand and incorporate into their operations.
For example, since security camera systems are increasingly Internet-connected, why not share some tips on camera passwords or the difference between a traditional and Cloud-managed surveillance system?
4. Keep Them Updated
COVID-19 has increased the demand for safety standards and video analytics. Indeed we have seen a steep demand for technology and innovation when it comes to physical security. Clients are bound to have questions about IP cameras equipped with AI-driven analysis capabilities to help them supervise safety requirements.
Commercial clients may also want new ideas to improve their security posture. They may want to learn more about remote monitoring, automated doors, contactless access control terminals and many other trending technologies.
5. Go Above and Beyond
At the end of the day, property managers want the same thing that all customers want from their providers. They want someone that understands their perspective, solves their problems and provides solutions. By going above and beyond, security integrators can build better relationships and continue to provide excellent service even during these challenging times.
Patrick Chown is the owner and president of Safe and Sound Security. The company specializes in integrating security cameras, access control, burglar alarms and structured cabling.
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