The rise of cloud-based technology has revolutionized the way businesses approach security camera systems. Cloud camera systems provide several advantages compared to traditional security cameras that utilize local storage devices. In this blog post, we will explore six benefits of cloud camera systems that businesses should consider when deciding on a security camera solution.

The first benefit of a cloud camera system is that it offers flexible and scalable storage options. With cloud storage, businesses can store an unlimited amount of data without worrying about running out of storage space. This makes it easy to manage a growing amount of data as the business expands. In addition, cloud storage allows businesses to access video footage from anywhere with an internet connection, making it easier to monitor the premises remotely. (Source: Axis Communications, "The Benefits of Cloud-Based Video Surveillance", 2022)

The second benefit of a cloud camera system is that it provides a higher level of security. Traditional security camera systems with local storage devices are vulnerable to theft and tampering. However, cloud camera systems are stored offsite, reducing the risk of tampering or theft. In addition, cloud camera systems have advanced encryption protocols, which provide a higher level of security compared to traditional security camera systems. (Source: Cisco Meraki, "Cloud-based Video Surveillance", 2022)

The third benefit of a cloud camera system is that it provides real-time monitoring capabilities. Cloud camera systems can provide real-time video footage, which can help businesses respond quickly to security incidents. In addition, cloud camera systems can use analytics software to detect potential security threats, such as suspicious activity, and alert security personnel. (Source: Eagle Eye Networks, "The Top 10 Benefits of Cloud-Based Video Surveillance", 2022)

The fourth benefit of a cloud camera system is that it is easy to set up and use. Cloud camera systems are designed to be user-friendly and easy to install, reducing the need for expensive technical support. In addition, cloud camera systems can be accessed and managed remotely, which makes it easier for businesses to monitor their premises from anywhere. (Source: Hanwha Techwin, "Top 5 Benefits of Cloud-Based Video Surveillance", 2022)

The fifth benefit of a cloud camera system is that it is cost-effective. Cloud camera systems eliminate the need for expensive on-premise storage devices, reducing the overall cost of the system. In addition, cloud camera systems provide flexible payment options, such as monthly subscriptions, which can help businesses manage their cash flow. (Source: Hikvision, "The Benefits of Cloud-based Video Surveillance Systems", 2022)

The sixth benefit of a cloud camera system is that it offers advanced analytics and reporting capabilities. Cloud camera systems can use artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms to analyze video footage and detect potential security threats. In addition, cloud camera systems can generate reports on key performance indicators, such as the number of security incidents, which can help businesses make data-driven decisions to improve their security systems. (Source: Verkada, "6 Benefits of Cloud-Based Video Surveillance Systems", 2022)

In conclusion, cloud camera systems offer several benefits that traditional security camera systems with local storage devices cannot match. Cloud camera systems provide flexible and scalable storage options, a higher level of security, real-time monitoring capabilities, ease of use, cost-effectiveness, and advanced analytics and reporting capabilities. By adopting cloud camera systems, businesses can improve their security posture, reduce costs, and enhance their overall business operations.

Since its debut last November, small businesses to large multinational companies have adopted Verkada Guest for their visitor management solution. 

With intuitive check-in, customized workflows based on guest type, instant host notifications, badge printing and more, Verkada Guest customers have fully automated their visitor and employee check-in experience. What’s more, the seamless experience of having Verkada Guest fully integrated with their physical security platform allows customers to review camera footage of check-in locations and remotely open doors - all from a desktop or mobile device. 

And in just three months’ time, Verkada Guest became a solution for our education customers, supporting their needs to have visitors checked against state and local registered sex offender lists before being let into the campus. Within seconds, potential matches are shared with front desk staff for review and confirmed matches can be denied access and staff can be alerted via email and text message. 

Today, Verkada released:

• Calendar invites to check-in guests ahead of their visit
• Host approvals to complete guest check-in
• Visitor sign-out
• Site-specific host lists & notifications

Check-in guests ahead of their visit with Invites

Let’s admit it - for many of us, our daily work is driven from our calendars (and email inboxes). That’s why Verkada introduced a feature that allows hosts to send check-in invites to guests from their calendar. This feature helps streamline check-in for large groups, provides a VIP experience to special guests, and simplifies new hire onboarding.

To get started, the host simply selects what type of guest they are inviting (“New Hire”, “Visitor”, “Delivery”, etc.) and a custom email is generated for that selected Guest Type. The host then simply copies the custom email address and adds it to the calendar invitation being sent to their visitors.

Once the guest receives the email, they can complete their check-in process ahead of time. And because they’ve already RSVP’d, all of their information is pre-populated at check-in, enabling the receptionist to print badges ahead of time. 

Guests’ integration with Verkada Access Control means that invited and RSVP’d guests can now unlock doors. When enabled for specific guest types, visitors that are invited as that guest type will get an email with links to unlock doors. 

Hosts can now admit or deny entry to visitors

Visitor management solutions improve the safety of those in the building, which includes ensuring guests are there to visit a specific employee. 

Guest Admins can now check a box to require that hosts approve a visitor before the visitor is allowed to continue the check-in process. Hosts will get an SMS or email that shows the name and photo of the visitor and will either need to allow or deny the visitor. If the host allows the visitor, the visitor continues the check-in process. If the host denies the visitor, the visitor cannot continue and the denied entry will be logged in the Guest dashboard.

Visitors can now sign themselves out

Often overlooked, sign-out is a process used by many organizations. Whether it’s to account for everyone in times of emergencies, for regulatory compliance, or just to have better record keeping of who is in the building, it’s now easy to know which visitors are still onsite.

With self sign-out, visitors are now able to sign themselves out via email, SMS or via the iPad kiosk. By signing out, their sign-out time will be recorded in the visitor log automatically.

Multi-location customers can name site-specific Hosts

With Verkada Guest, host notifications have always been a key feature. When guests check-in and select a host, an email or SMS notification is automatically sent to alert the employee their visitor has arrived.

Verkada Administrators can create site-specific directories within Guest, so that only staff from that location can be selected as the host. Useful for businesses or school district’s with multiple sites, this helps make the experience even more seamless for visitors and employees.

To learn more about Verkada Guest and sign up for a free demo, click on our contact us page!