9.28.22 – SSI – Clint Choate
SMBs are facing more security challenges than ever before. Here are best practices for integrators to become the ultimate security partner.
Security should be a top concern for businesses of all sizes, especially those that are considered small and medium-sized (SMB). At a time when these business owners face more security challenges than ever before, it’s crucial that they invest the time and resources in finding a good security partner who can help them protect their businesses.
To get the best results, and the strongest possible systems, it’s vital to seek out professional security partners to install robust, reliable systems that provide peace-of-mind and protection. Here are some of the key ways security partners can help SMBs protect their business.
Building Unique Systems for Each SMB
Each client has different needs and concerns when it comes to security. The right security partner will take the time to understand what’s important to the SMB they’re working with and will design security systems to address those needs.
Leaning on a full repertoire of different products and services, as well as an experienced and educated staff, security firms are well positioned to offer advice and make recommendations based on each SMBs unique areas of concern.
Additionally, the smartest and most effective security systems account for growth and flexibility in their design. SMBs might not always have the budget for the most robust security solution and should therefore consider taking a scalable approach. It’s imperative that SMBs seek a partner who will help them use their investment wisely and help them transition to a more updated system when the time is right.
Remote Management and Problem Solving
SMBs must also have confidence that their security systems are working properly 24/7. If something breaks or stops working during the weekend or outside of business hours, SMBs need a reliable and easy way to get their systems back up and running again.
This is where remote management and control for both owners and integrators comes into play. Due to its simplicity and efficacy, remote network management has rapidly become an essential part of integration projects. Most solutions offer web or mobile app based access to systems from almost anywhere, giving owners and integrators a whole new level of control and insight.
Business owners are sometimes surprised by how many problems can be easily resolved remotely without even needing to send a truck or individual to the business to assess and address the problem.
As security systems grow in size, installations can become more complex with each sub system requiring individual on-site configuration and updates. Through advanced remote network management solutions, integrators can remotely configure and deliver updates to managed systems with just a few clicks.
This can save hours of setup time and offers granular control and access for any size system while ensuring customers can leverage all the latest features and be protected by critical security updates.
Remote management is growing in popularity because it is a straightforward option that offers greater responsiveness and peace-of-mind while streamlining operations. Remote management also helps reduce costs for integrators and presents the chance to enroll clients in highly profitable service contracts that provide rapid issue resolution and user training.
Emphasize Trust to Ease Anxieties and Complications
Finally, SMBs might feel overwhelmed when first considering security systems for their businesses, or when thinking about adding in new products or offerings to existing systems. At this stage, a security partner’s relationship with their client becomes very important. A good security partner will prioritize their customer’s comfort level and will put a strong emphasis on employee training and education.
To best achieve their goals, SMBs and their security partners must work together throughout the entire process from designing and installing the system, to setting up remote management and reviewing the network and any vulnerabilities. The strength of the relationships between SMBs and their partners is paramount to the success of the security system itself.
Ultimately, while SMBs have many business concerns, they should aim to prioritize and update their security systems with reliable technology. With the right security partner, SMBs can ensure their businesses are safe and secure from the different threats they may face.
Clint Choate is Senior Director for the Security Market at Snap One.