A Comprehensive Buyer’s Checklist for Video Analytics Software

3 Things Your Video Analytics Solution Needs for Long Term Value

Enterprise software solutions are an investment that shouldn’t be taken lightly regardless of the problems they solve or the applications they enable. Video content analytics solutions are one such investment, and there are many things to consider when choosing the VCA that is right for you. From implementation to maintenance, initial configuration to upgrades, and intended use notwithstanding, “ease” is key. Although video analytics is a highly complex, artificial intelligence-based technology, video intelligence platforms should still be intuitive and easy to use. Take a look at our Buyer’s Checklist for Video Analytics Software so you can be confident that you are investing in a solution that meets your unique needs.

Video Analytics Buyer’s Checklist:

1. EASE OF IMPLEMENTATION
   Before purchasing a VCA solution, you need to consider how the video analytics system is deployed and whether it is scalable. Every organization has its own unique environment and systems architecture, and ideally, the video analytics system will integrate seamlessly into that existing infrastructure without adding much of a hardware footprint. It is also important to validate that the software can be deployed in a manner that complements existing systems and leaves flexibility for future growth – this might include on-premises and cloud, edge, or hybrid deployment options. Another important question to ask is: how easy is it to get started with the video analysis system? Is there a simple or automated process for installing the software? Ease of installation and implementation should be at the top of your mind when weighing different video analytic options, especially for more comprehensive solutions
2. EASE OF ADMIN
   Once the system and microservices for the video analysis platform are installed, an administrator must configure the system to meet the unique needs of the host site. When selecting a solution, pay attention to how configuration and ongoing software administration is enabled. For the solution to be broadly valuable across an organization, it needs to be effectively managed and frequently maintained to enable users to leverage the latest capabilities for the most benefit. The upgrade process should be clear, and the admin should be able to rely on professional support as needed to ensure the best usage and quality of service. Furthermore, when a technology is retained over time by both its user and solution provider, environmental changes and technological advancements throughout the customer lifecycle are highly likely. When choosing a video analysis technology, make sure you select a platform that can evolve with your needs and scale with your hardware expansion and business growth. It is also important to evaluate whether the solution can integrate seamlessly with other solutions that might be needed in the future, such as Video Management Systems (VMS), Physical Security Information Management Systems (PSIM), Command & Control Systems (C&C), and Cloud-based Video Surveillance Solutions. Picking a video analytics solution that can easily grow with you is vital to the long-term success of a robust video surveillance solution.
3. EASE OF USE
   Useability is, of course, one of the most important considerations of a technology investment. There is nothing worse than dealing with clunky technology every day! The software should be intuitive, easy to navigate, and provide a UI that promotes user productivity, regardless of who uses the technology. Video analysis is a complex technology with broad applications but should still offer an enhanced user experience with resources to ensure you get the most out of your investment. Keep in mind, however, that frequent, updated training and product documentation are as important to customer success as a user-friendly GUI. Video analytics companies should provide ongoing training support, but companies need to be proactive in keeping themselves abreast of training needs as well.

As with any technology investment, selecting a video analysis solution isn’t a decision that should be taken lightly. With the intelligent video surveillance technology landscape growing, there are many solutions that can deliver accurate analytics to support safety, security, and operational applications. By understanding the ease with which a solution can be implemented, maintained, and used on an ongoing basis, you can differentiate between product offerings and determine which choice is best for your current and future needs. Other key considerations to weigh are flexibility of deployment options, VMS and technology integrations, and system expansion, as well as processing performance. Video content analysis software is an investment in realizing the full value of video data to effectively drive organizational security, operational efficiency, and customer experience. Choose wisely.