It was only a matter of time until smart technology collided with video surveillance systems (VSS). Although standard CCTV and video surveillance systems have done a great job in improving the safety and security of businesses and sites over the years, and in fact still do, the rise of smart technology allows for improved features and capabilities of video surveillance that we have ever seen before. To keep things simple, we’ve pieced together everything you need to know about smart video surveillance.
- What is smart video surveillance?
- What can smart video surveillance do?
- What are the benefits of smart video surveillance?
- The Importance of a Reliable Alarm Receiving Centre
- Monitoring smart video surveillance systems
What is smart video surveillance?
Smart video surveillance is the application of smart technology on VSS. A standard VSS, such as a CCTV system, compromises of a set of cameras that connects to a monitor in order to view the footage. Smart technology allows for more advanced features that maximise the potential of standard video surveillance. The use of the Cloud is another feature of smart video surveillance that is commonly utilised, allowing for cloud-hosted data storage and camera management as well as wireless set-ups.
The UK video surveillance market is projected to reach $7.16 billion by 2030, reflecting a consistent expansion driven primarily by the adoption of these advanced technologies and the increasing demand for high-definition IP cameras, according to market analysis.
What can smart video surveillance do?
A smart video surveillance system can perform much more specific and high level tasks than a standard system. Smart technology also allows for faster and easier management that will have an immediate impact on the business in terms of their efficiency.
Video analytics are a major feature of smart video surveillance and often use AI driven software to carry out the required actions. This integration of machine learning has become essential for modern security, transforming video surveillance from a reactive tool to a proactive one. Critically, AI-driven analytics are highly effective at distinguishing between genuine threats (like a human intruder or vehicle) and benign movements (such as foliage, animals, or weather effects), which is key to reducing false alarms and operator fatigue. Industry data suggests that advanced systems are now capable of filtering out up to 95% of motion noise, ensuring that when an alert is triggered, it requires immediate attention. To understand the full scope of this benefit, you can read our guide on how AI is reducing false alarms and operator fatigue in ARCs. Examples include:
Smart queue/people management
Smart video surveillance isn’t just for security, but can be used in a management and operational capacity to improve business performance. For example, the system can identify the number of people in a queue, track their movements and calculate their wait time. This application extends across various sectors, from optimising retail flow to ensuring health and safety compliance on construction sites, offering actionable business intelligence through non-security monitoring services.
Face recognition
Individually identifying the faces of individuals is a great example of smart video surveillance systems. Facial recognition is important for many businesses, due to flagging unknown individuals who might be in the building as well as identifying those who might be banned or known to building management. Given the sensitivity of biometric data, any deployment of this technology in the private sector must adhere strictly to data protection laws, including the UK GDPR.
The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) provides detailed guidance for organisations on the legal and ethical use of Facial Recognition Technology (FRT), emphasising the need for clear justification, proportionality, and transparency when processing this kind of personal data.
Number plate recognition (ANPR)
Similar to facial recognition, ANPR can be used to identify unknown vehicles or calculate how long a vehicle has been parked. Knowing what vehicles and who is on a site is key to keeping a site secure and can be fully integrated with a site’s remote site access controls for automated gate or barrier operation.
What are the benefits of smart video surveillance?
Easy to install
Smart VSS is easy to install and implement quickly, due to the majority of he set-up taking place wirelessly.
Scalability
A smart VSS can be easily scaled as a business or site grows. More components can be added, as can new features as technology develops, without the need of an entire new system. Furthermore, as systems become more connected through IP and cloud infrastructure, a key consideration for long-term scalability is the growing need for robust cybersecurity measures, which protect the sensitive data being transmitted and stored.
Flexible
Users are able to customise their system allowing for full, flexible management. It also allows for flexible use of the system, in terms of responding quickly to events.
User friendly
Smart systems are arguably easier to use than more traditional systems, due to being app based.
Improved security
With improved capabilities and opportunities of video surveillance, a smart system allows for improved security of a site, due to the increased control achievable.
Improved management & monitoring
Smart features allow for better management and more monitoring opportunities that will lead to improved protection and surveillance of a site. This is particularly valuable in a business context, where real-time data from a smart system can be used for far more than just security. For a deep dive into the operational benefits, discover how 24/7 monitoring improves efficiency in facility management.
Operational Efficiency Beyond Security
While the primary focus is security, the data from smart video surveillance is invaluable for optimising business operations. In retail, analytics can track foot traffic and dwell times to optimise store layouts and marketing displays. In commercial settings, monitoring air conditioning usage and environmental factors can save energy and reduce operating costs. For sites, like large industrial complexes, smart systems can be used to conduct virtual tours, verifying safety compliance and supplementing human patrols with remote health and safety patrols. This holistic use of VSS data represents the true potential of monitoring in the age of smart buildings.
The Importance of a Reliable Alarm Receiving Centre
For a smart system to deliver on its promise of improved security, it requires professional monitoring. The complexity of AI-generated alerts and the high volume of data necessitate oversight from a trained Alarm Receiving Centre (ARC). Without this verification, the system’s effectiveness is limited. In the UK, police forces operate under stringent rules, such as the NPCC Police Requirements for Security Systems, where response can be withdrawn if a monitored alarm system generates a high number of false alarms. This makes professional, verified monitoring—as part of a comprehensive intruder monitoring strategy—essential not just for security, but for compliance and maintaining the ability to secure a genuine police response in an emergency.
To secure your premises effectively, always partner with an ARC that you can trust; you can learn more about The Importance of a Reliable Alarm Receiving Centre here.
Monitoring smart video surveillance systems
RMS provide premium monitoring services for smart video surveillance systems. NSI Gold approved, they have vast experience and expertise in monitoring smart security systems. Our dedicated team is committed to delivering the highest level of service.
Get in touch for a FREE quote on 0330 002 1149.
Share:
