Hotel security

SALTO Systems, a manufacturer of electronic access control solutions, has redesigned its Hospitality website with a completely new and interesting look. The cell-friendly Hospitality website adds a new flavor to SALTO’s digital presence, offering more accessibility and easy-to-use features. Electronic Lock Solutions For Hotel Doors The new SALTO Hospitality website emphasizes the theme “A hotel experience you need to discover” and offers innovative additions for introducing SALTO Hospitality electronic lock solutions for guestroom doors, guest services door access and back-of-house. Above all, the new website relays SALTO Hospitality’s dedication to improving the guest experience, hotel management, design, security and reliability. “SALTO’s redesigned Hospitality website reflects the personal touch you expect when visiting a hotel or lodging property,” said Dawn Nye, SALTO Systems Marketing Coordinator. “The updated Hospitality website is now easier to navigate. The homepage offers the complete value proposition that enables users to find solutions fast with suggested pages. The visual design layout makes the site more user-friendly, resulting in simple menus with slick icons." A Solution For Every Door One essential part of the new site is the updated Hotel electronic locks page, which includes every type of solution for any kind of door need and type. The site’s imagery continues this guest experience-centered trend: Many of the images throughout the site are photographs of real SALTO Hospitality projects, demonstrating SALTO’s reliability. The new SALTO Hospitality product page features a simple, elegant layout that presents important information in a way that’s easily digestible, even for visitors who aren’t familiar with more complex electronic locking solutions for hospitality or security. You can see the new SALTO Hospitality website by clicking here – www.saltohospitality.com.

The next level in hotel lock engineering for hospitality, Ælement Fusion, is packed with innovative features including a JustIN Mobile application for mobile access with NFC and BLE engine, SALTO BLUEnet wireless technology for real-time access control management and the SALTO Virtual Network (SVN) data-on-card technology. RFID-Compatible Electronic Lock SALTO’s new Ælement Fusion is an electronic lock with a sleek round reader that eliminates lock hardware on the door by encasing all electronic components inside the door itself, making security virtually invisible. The Ælement Fusion is SALTO’s latest evolution in hotel lock engineering that increases security, improves operations and enhances décor. The Ælement Fusion is compatible with RFID and BLE (Bluetooth) technologies that integrate seamlessly with mobile applications including SALTO Systems’ JustIN Mobile. Providing a minimalistic design that blends in with any hotel décor, the Ælement Fusion’s small, customizable light ring reader (available in black or white) offers a discreet electronic lock for hotels looking to deploy electronic access control with a stylish, yet technologically-advanced solution. SALTO offers a variety of door handles and finishes to complement any door style.Ælement Fusion is the future of the hospitality industry’s electronic locking technology" Advanced Wireless Technology “For more than a decade, our intention has been to create an invisible electronic hotel lock. The Ælement Fusion is the realization of that vision,” said Marc Handels, SALTO Systems CMSO. “With the introduction of Ælement nine years ago, we revolutionized the hotel electronic lock market. AElement Fusion marks a new era for SALTO Hospitality — one in which the electronic lock disappears into the guest experience.” Security, efficiency and design are all essential aspects of access control in the highly competitive hospitality sector. Ælement Fusion incorporates SALTO’s stand-alone, battery-powered electronic lock and technology, SVN data-on-card and advanced wireless technology, with online, real-time capabilities — all without using wires. JustIN Mobile Powered Door Security “Ælement Fusion is the future of the hospitality industry’s electronic locking technology,” said Handels. “It is packed with incredible new technologies, like the innovative JustIN Mobile application that allows guests and staff to use their smartphone as a key, beautiful design light ring contactless reader, and SALTO BLUEnet wireless engine for real-time access control.” To help architects, designers and engineers decide which is the best Ælement Fusion model, SALTO has developed an innovative tool that allows complete visualization and customization of the locking solutions chosen by the user. By accessing the web page, the user is able to select the door lock model online to configure and create their customized door by personalizing everything. This smart tool will help visitors select different designs and lock models, giving them an idea of how the solutions will look on different types of doors and with different finishes.

3xLOGIC, Inc., a provider of integrated, intelligent security solutions, and the three-year-in-a-row Deloitte Fast 500 winner, announced moves to strengthen the company’s sales and training resources in order to continue to support its award-winning growth. Richard Rao is the new Regional Sales Manager for Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana and Arkansas and is based out of Houston, Texas. Richard has 20 years’ experience in the security industry, working in both sales and operations roles for top companies, including Matrix, Convergint, and Tyco. He has excellent experience across a wide range of technologies—access control, video surveillance, intrusion, and more—and keen insights into key vertical markets such as fast food, finance, auto dealerships, among others. Retail And Hospitality Management The new Regional Sales Manager for the Southeast is Michael Stephens. Michael is relatively new to the CCTV and Business intelligence industries, prior to joining 3xLOGIC. His career expertise lies in many years’ experience in retail management, retail sales, and the hospitality industry, and he brings great insight to his clients and their needs for analytics and business intelligence. Michael works out of Kissimmee, Florida. Andrew Kushner was promoted to a new position within the inside sales organization. Effective October 1st, he has been promoted to the position of Inside Sales Account Manager—Northeast and Southeast Regions. Andrew began his career with 3xLOGIC more than three years ago, working in the Production Group before moving on to Marketing Assistant, and then to a role as Sales Support Specialist in November 2016. Beth Oyler joins the company as the new Training Coordinator to help manage the fast-growing training and education department. She brings a background in marketing to her new position. Expanding Corporate Resources “It is a pleasure to welcome new staff and this promotion at such a pivotal time for 3xLOGIC,” commented Matt Kushner, CEO. “We continue to expand corporate resources to better serve our customers, while we are developing wider, deeper relationships with key partners who offer us incredible opportunities in new markets.”

SALTO Systems, a manufacturer of electronic access control solutions, has appointed Gerry Rupper to the commercial sales team position of Regional Sales Manager. XSperience Center Rupper will oversee sales of SALTO products in New York City and will also host partners, consultants and prospects at SALTO’s new XSperience Center located near Penn Station in Manhattan. The XSperience Center is a unique resource dedicated to demonstrating and training for SALTO’s comprehensive and versatile range of solutions. Based in Long Island, Rupper will report to SALTO Senior Vice President of Commercial Sales Michael J. Mahon. “Gerry has invaluable security sales experience and we are thrilled to have him representing SALTO in the very important New York market – a market that Gerry has worked in for decades,” said Mahon. “Gerry will also serve as an important representative for our new XSperience Center which is quickly becoming a vital SALTO product and training resource for the East Coast.”  Access Control Experience Gerry joins SALTO from manufacturer’s representative Rupper Associates where he served as president and provided consultation, project specification, system design, team sales, seminars and training in access control, CCTV and emergency communications systems. Gerry has also served as district sales manager for LCA Sales Company and sales engineer for Vicon Industries. He is a graduate of Hofstra University. “I’m excited to be joining an organization like SALTO, a company that represents such innovative thinking toward security,” said Gerry. “SALTO offers truly leading-edge solutions to many of access control’s challenges. My new position will give me the opportunity to provide these solutions to an ever-growing market.”

SALTO Systems, a manufacturer of electronic access control solutions, has appointed Preston Grutzmacher to the commercial sales team position of North Central Regional Sales Manager. New Ideas And Customer Building Based in Corcoran, Minn., Grutzmacher will oversee sales of SALTO products in Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, Michigan, Indiana, Missouri, and Iowa. He will report to SALTO Senior Vice President of Commercial Sales Michael J. Mahon. “We are very excited to have Preston join SALTO. He has a great deal of energy, experience, and fresh ideas that he brings to the sales team,” said Mahon. “We look forward to Preston’s success here at SALTO and his high energy and customer-building capabilities.” Access Control And CCTV Experience Grutzmacher joins SALTO from Anixter, where he served as Branch Manager for Security Sales and managed an award-winning team. He has an extensive background in access control, CCTV system design, and infrastructure design. “SALTO's dedication to quality, innovation and customer support has always been second to none and I'm honored to uphold that reputation,” said Grutzmacher. “I'm looking forward to supporting SALTO customers, brand and team.”

ASIS International, an association for security management professionals, announced the agenda for its free Security Cares program, which will be held during its 63rd ASIS International Annual Seminar and Exhibits (ASIS 2017), Sept. 25-28 in Dallas, TX. This security education program for small/medium-sized businesses/institutions—including houses of worship, hospitals/clinics, schools, retailers and restaurants, as well as community leaders, law enforcement, and first responders—will tap into the expertise of the more than 20,000 security professionals attending ASIS 2017 by offering free training on the fundamentals of security prevention and preparedness. "Every day, ASIS members work to bolster the security readiness of communities around the world. We are pleased to be able to leverage this concentration of knowledge as part of our flagship event to deliver hands-on training for small-to-medium-sized organizations who do not necessarily have the resources for a standalone security function," said Peter J. O'Neil, Executive Vice President and CEO of ASIS International. "Whether through our School Security Grant Program, free Law Enforcement and Military Appreciation Day, or Security Cares, we are committed to leaving the cities that host our Annual Seminar and Exhibits safer and more resilient." Active Shooter/Assailant Session The program kicks off Wednesday, Sept. 27 with an active shooter/assailant session featuring Dallas Sheriff Lupe Valdez. Moderated by Kevin Doss, CPP, PSP, author Active Shooter: Preparing for and Responding to a Global Threat, the panel covers the unique risks facing small/medium-sized businesses and community and cultural institutions and steps these organizations can take now to both prepare for, and respond to, an active shooter/assailant incident. Insights will spotlight the importance of a crisis management plan and the various free resources available through local law enforcement and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Opening Session Speakers Michael Dailey, Chief, Outreach Programs Branch, U.S. Department of Homeland Security Infrastructure Protection, Region VI Jim McGuffey, CPP, PCI, PSP, author Houses of Worship Security Risk Analysis Process and owner, A.C.E. Security Consultants Paul Timm, PSP, author School Security: How to Build and Strengthen a School Safety Program and president, RETA Security Sheriff Lupe Valdez, Dallas County Sheriff's Department Wednesday’s second session focuses on having effective prevention and emergency response plans in place Prevention And Emergency Response Plans “DHS is proud to support the efforts of the Security Cares initiative, especially as it relates to helping educate small and medium-sized businesses on how they can improve their security posture,” said Michael Dailey, chief, Outreach Programs Branch, DHS IP Region VI. “These efforts go hand-in-hand with DHS’s Hometown Security concept that seeks to help better prepare communities and businesses from tragedies stemming from active shooters and/or terror incidents by asking small and medium-sized businesses and places of public gatherings to ‘Connect, Plan, Train, and Report.” Wednesday’s second session, “Preventing Violence: Developing and Testing Your Readiness Plans,” focuses on having effective prevention and emergency response plans in place and includes peer-to-peer collaboration in an immersive, simulated scenario focused on testing protocols to surface vulnerabilities. Following the formal program, participants will take a guided tour of the exhibit hall to learn more about the types of security services and solutions available to provide a safe work environment. Security Cares Sessions Don’t Be a Victim! Fundamentals of Cybersecurity, offering best practices and guidelines from leading IT security experts on basic steps to secure an organization’s information assets. Mail Security Best Practices (presented by Amanda McMurrey, U.S. Postal Inspector), will provide a primer on safe mail handling practices and share insights into how small businesses and organizations without a formal mail room can take advantage of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service’s resources.

The optical speed lane and turnstile sector of the security market has had a very busy 2017. Growth in commercial construction has provided more opportunity.  Innovations in technology have given speed lane manufacturers an opportunity to deliver a better product. Orion Sales Increase And Company Growth Orion Entrance Control, Inc., had a great 2017 as sales increased and our company grew. We attribute our success to the unique approach we have taken since day one: providing customized products that offer customers more than a “one-size-fits-all” solution. We offer the line of turnstiles that you would expect from any reputable manufacturer in the marketplace, but we know that when dealing with lobby security or entrance control, one size definitely does not fit all. By providing various options to supplement our core line, we give our customers a solution that best suits their needs.The ability for security technologies and their manufacturers to work together is becoming increasingly more important to our customers One area that we will continue to build upon in the development of our products is in technology integrations. The ability for security technologies and their manufacturers to work together is becoming increasingly more important to our customers. The manufacturers that can future proof their products to allow the addition of new technologies and to protect a client’s investment from obsolescence will be the big winners in 2018 and beyond. Integration In Entrance Control Orion ECI’s products are built with technology and designs that have this vision for the future. For example, we work with the leaders in biometrics and Point of Sale (POS) solutions to integrate these systems into our entrance control products. Oftentimes, with just a wave of the hand or the right credential, approved users can enter with no hassle or even ring up a purchase. From a business standpoint, Orion ECI experienced a year of continued process improvement and design in 2017. We reached record sales revenues as we continued to receive orders from our existing enterprise clients and new customers. For 2018, we plan to add personnel in key growth areas. This will include additional inside and outside sales positions and product production and engineering roles.

When we contemplate where and how our food is made, cleanliness and hygiene are typically at the top of the list of necessities. And when it comes to production facilities, strict regulations and sanitation requirements are in place to ensure that the highest levels of food safety are met.  This white paper by Oncam explores the different aspects of food safety and defense in the production, manufacturing and catering environments. It also offers practical guidance to the types of food certification available making safety equipment compliant and what to look out for. Oncam is an independent, specialized IP video and technology company with a reputation for being one of the most innovative firms in today's market. Oncam's sole focus is on 360-degree smart IP video - working with partners to deliver high-value business solutions for customers that leverage Oncam's award-winning technology. Oncam has deep industry knowledge combined with specialized expertise in Healthcare, Retail, Transport, Maritime and Ports, Banking, Casinos and Hospitality. Find Out More About: Food safety by numbers Food safety and food defense Protective technology for harsh conditions A guide to food certifications The future of food safety  

A key criteria of video management software is adaptability for adding new components - as long as it is a true open platform Traditionally, security systems have been designed with the cameras in mind first then with added consideration for the infrastructure and cabling components. But this is old-school analog thinking. Milestone Systems CEO Lars Thinggaard states that a security system can be designed for more than just protecting assets by starting with specifications for digital video management software (VMS) at the core of the solution. By thinking 'digital', an IP network video system can become a value-adding business tool, as well.  For the most part, customers have been buying a security system when they were motivated by the need for people safety or asset protection. Now there are new trends emerging. IP technology has improved the functionality and performance of video monitoring to such an extent that people are seeing many other things they can do with a surveillance system. Video systems are moving into a new phase of usability and application. Based on the right software, a video management system takes on a much bigger role, with higher return on investment, by delivering more than just security. The focus is expanding to new opportunities with open platform VMS software at the core. Small Cost - Big Role The fact that the VMS typically comprises around 10-15 percent of the total cost of a video monitoring system often misleads people about the true value it holds. And if the chosen VMS is not open architecture, it will be difficult to adapt to future changes, and to integrate an existing system with new components, which achieves the most value possible for the investment. Essentially, if the wrong decision is made when choosing the VMS, the other parts of the purchase decrease in value! This is why it is essential when purchasing a security system to specify the software first, as the core of the solution. See larger image Milestone Software video management system illustration The software is like the central brain that unifies, coordinates, moves, and registers all the functions and devices, displaying video and saving the video data in its archives (the 'memory'). The hardware equipment and devices, which people typically have considered first when specifying a system, function more as eyes (cameras), translator (encoders), lungs/heart (server power), or connecting limbs and appendages (network fiber/switches). Other sensors may also be desired such as laser scanners, audio components, and devices for measuring radiation or chemicals, for example. By choosing the equipment first, however, the focus has been on the body parts, rather than the central unifier. It is the software that is the core of the solution, making it all work together in one efficient and easy-to-use platform. And the core role of the software is underscored most when you want to integrate new innovations in the future. A key criteria of video management software is adaptability for adding new components - as long as it is a true open platform. When customers choose open platform software, they can take advantage of an entire industry of solutions and not be confined to just one company's offerings. This allows new technologies to be added as they are developed, with ongoing updates that improve a security system, adding more value to continually leverage the original investment. Beyond Protection Expectations are being redefined by innovation that is continually pushing the boundaries of what a video system can be, and do. The introduction of open platform technology (born in the IT industry) has been the driving force. It has enabled video monitoring to meet new customer needs with integrated solutions that do much more than protect people and assets. The many opportunities that open platform VMS can provide are the reasons why customers are beginning to use video monitoring technology for solutions not intended for traditional security at all. Take retail for example. There is great incentive to have a security system to reduce theft and shrinkage. However, many retail companies are expanding their use of surveillance to improve customer experience: for example, automatically monitoring lines at check-out stands to quickly open new ones if queuing becomes too long. They can also track the most highly visited areas of the store, and use the data to place spot items in those areas. The opportunities do not stop there. Software ensures efficient working of security systems in one easy-to-use platform For its global chain of 45 stores, the clothing retailer Paul Smith is rolling out Milestone open platform video, chosen for its long-term expandability. They know that integrated video analytics can be used to study how customers walk through a store: heat mapping and dwell-time software can analyze which displays are working best to attract and retain shoppers, and analyze images of customers picking up products to put in their baskets. Managers can use this business intelligence to make improvements. University of St. Andrews Medical School in Scotland uses state-of-the-art video surveillance to develop students' practical skills through training, exams, and self-practice. The custom- integrated system is used for both learning and teaching skills. Students are recorded in mock interview situations to practice building rapport with patients and gathering information. Professors and students review the video to improve their performance. Students record themselves practicing procedures on their own time, and export the video for later review. When exam time comes, professors test students while monitoring remotely from the technicians' office, communicating through directional microphones and speakers. If a student is taking a patient's blood pressure, for example, the professor can zoom in and make sure they are doing it correctly. The university is looking to integrate this with their curriculum management system to let students efficiently access their videos and curriculum all in one place. This is just one more example of how open platform video software is redefining expectations. Cruise ships and ferries, casinos, hotels and nightclubs - even hospitals - are using video management software to ensure the safety and well-being of its customers and patients. The software is the core of the solution that brings ongoing value through enabling all the other components - even those not yet known, the innovations to come People can check in and be given an RFID (Radio Frequency ID) tag in the form of a bracelet. The tag contains information like time of entry, duration and time of exit. The RFID systems can be integrated with video management software and access control systems to handle the camera feeds and record each experience. Every business sector can adapt such innovations to improve operations and their environments. Manufacturing sites integrate video with the production line to verify operational integrity, distribution logistics integrate video with scanning systems, utilities verify operational health of high voltage transformers, and many more industries are waking up to the possibilities provided by integrated video technology. Looking ahead, there is really no limit to how video can be used to add value to existing systems: there is tremendous potential for the future. Increasing Value for the Entire Industry Currently, the physical security industry alone is valued at USD 90 billion. According to IHS Inc., IP video uptake is expected to double in size between 2012 and 2017, expanding the market from $4.7 to $13 billion - more than 170 percent! That is a big number, and there is a lot of opportunity for increasing it as we continue to find new uses for video. In the future, cameras will also be used as sensors. We are seeing tangible opportunities in the area of Intelligent Building Management. Cameras can monitor which rooms are being used and when certain areas of the building are vacant so lighting, heating, cooling, and a range of other functions can be adjusted. Concepts like street view maps could be advanced as wearable video cameras emerge. This could lead to visual mapping of stores and shopping centers, enabling customers to more easily locate products. Zoos could expand the use of video by showcasing nocturnal animals that are inactive during opening hours. Visitors could access video of the animals in their active state, improving customer experience, and creating more web traffic. Such new opportunities mean increased return on investment for customers. We believe that no single manufacturer can enable the future alone: business is better through a team. With open platform video management software at the core of the system, partners can provide the best possible solutions for customers, growing business and increasing value for everyone involved. The key to getting the value out of a solution both today and tomorrow is to maximize the return on investment with open platform VMS. In order to do this, the right VMS must be chosen first. The software is the core of the solution that brings ongoing value through enabling all the other components - even those not yet known, the innovations to come. Once the core has been decided, the other components can be integrated and the full potential of the future can be unlocked.

The 2018 FIFA World Cup tournament is bringing 32 national teams and more than 400,000 foreign soccer fans from all over the world to 12 venues in 11 cities in Russia. Fans are crowding into cities including Moscow, St. Petersburg and Kazan. Given continuing global concerns about terrorism, security is top-of-mind. Protection of the World Cup games in Russia is focusing on an “integrated safety, security and service approach,” according to officials. Combining the term “security” with the terms “safety” and “service” is not an accident. An aggressive security stance is necessary, but at the end of the day, fan safety is paramount, and a service-oriented approach ensures a positive fan experience. Medical responders will be working side-by-side with police and antiterrorism personnel. Risk Management Best Practices We asked Sean T. Horner and Ben Joelson, directors of the Chertoff Group, a global advisory firm focused on best practices in security and risk management, to comment on security at FIFA World Cup 2018. Although not involved in securing the 2018 World Cup, the Chertoff Group is experienced at securing large events and enterprises using risk management, business practices and security. Integration is another important aspect of protecting the games, says Horner. The use of multiple resources, including Russian military, intelligence and law enforcement, will be closely integrated to provide the best security for the large-scale event in each of the host cities, he says. The approach will be centralized and flexible, with resource deployment guided by effective situational awareness.Primary security and emergency operations centers will be dispersed throughout each host city “There is a unified command structure at the Russian Federation level, and they will keep resources in reserve and shift them as needed to various events and venues based on any specific intelligence, in effect deploying resources where threats are greatest,” says Joelson. “There will also be some regional commands, and resources will incorporate a spectrum of police and military personnel ranging from the ‘cop on the beat’ to the Spetsnaz, the Russian ‘special forces.” Primary security and emergency operations centers will be dispersed throughout each host city, and additional forces can be shifted as necessary, he notes. Role Of Law Enforcement In Russia, the lines of separation between law enforcement and the military are not as stark as in the United States, for example, where military forces are restricted from deployment for domestic law enforcement by the Posse Comitatus Act. In Russia, there is no such restriction.  A broad range of technology will play a role at the World Cup, Horner and Joelson agree. Technology will be used primarily as a force multiplier and a decision-support tool for security personnel. There are robust CCTV systems in many Russian cities, and mobile CCTV systems, such as camera towers or mobile security centers on wheels, will also be deployed. Technologies will include infrared cameras, flood lights, and ferromagnetic screening systems to scan hundreds of individuals as they walk by. In some locations, facial recognition systems will be used, tied into various intelligence, military and law enforcement databases of known bad actors. Behavior analytics will be used as a decision-support tool. In addition to security in public areas, private CCTV systems in hotels, at transportation hubs, and inside the venues themselves will be leveraged. Video analytics and detection will help personnel review live view of people who may be acting suspiciously or who leave a bag unattended. In some locations, facial recognition systems will be used, tied into various intelligence, military and law enforcement databases of known bad actors Rigorous Anti-Terrorism Measures A Fan ID card is required to enter the 2018 FIFA World Cup Tournament, even for Russian residents. The Russians have an aggressive stance against domestic terrorism, which will also help ensure the safety of the World Cup games, say Horner and Joelson. Terrorist group ISIS has promised “unprecedented violence” at the games, but they make similar threats at every major global event. Russia has been an active force disrupting ISIS in Syria, and experts suggest that losing ground geographically could lead to addition “asymmetric” terrorist attacks. However, Russia is leveraging all their intelligence resources to identify any plots and deploying their security apparatus to disrupt any planned attacks, experts say. Russia’s rigorous anti-terrorism measures include a total ban on planes and other flying devices (such as drones) around the stadiums hosting the World Cup. Private Security In addition to military, intelligence and law enforcement personnel, private security will play a have a high profile during the 2018 World Cup in Russia. Private security personnel will be on the front lines in hotels and in “fan zones.” They will operate magnetometers at entrances, perform bag checks, enforce restrictions on hand-carried items, etc. Private security will be especially important to the “guest experience” aspects of protecting the games.Private security will be especially important to the “guest experience” aspects of protecting the games Another private security function at the World Cup is executive protection of dignitaries and high-net-worth individuals who will be attending. Executive protection professionals will arrive early, conduct advanced security assessments before VIPs arrive, and secure trusted and vetted transportation (including armored cars in some cases.) VIPs will include both Russian citizens and foreign (including U.S.) dignitaries attending the games. Private security details will be out in force. Aggressive Security Approach Overeager and outspoken fans are a part of the football culture, but Russia will deploy a near-zero tolerance policy against hooliganism and riots. An overwhelming force presence will take an aggressive approach to curbing any civil disturbances, and offenders will be removed quickly by Russian security forces. Strict restrictions on the sale and consumption of alcohol will be enforced in the venue cities before and after the matches. Officials will also be cognizant of the possibility of a riot or other event being used as a distraction to draw attention from another area where a terrorist event is planned. It will be a delicate balance between deploying an aggressive security approach and preserving the fan experience. Joelson notes that freedom of speech is not as valued in Russia as in other parts of the world, so the scales will be even more tipped toward security. “The last thing they want is for things to get out of control,” says Horner. “The event is putting Russia on the world stage, and they want visitors to walk away safely after having a great time and wanting to go back in the future.”Attendees should also have good situational awareness, and keep their heads up, scanning crowds and identifying unsafe situations" Precautions for World Cup attendees Attendees to the World Cup in Russia should take some basic precautions, Horner and Joelson agree. For example, Russia requires a translated, notarised letter explaining any prescription drugs. The country has a more aggressive foreign intelligence environment, so visitors cannot depend on their data being private. Joelson recommends the usual “social media hygiene” and privacy settings. Visitors should not post information about their travel plans or locations, and it’s best to travel with a disposable mobile phone that does not contain personal information. Location tracking should be deactivated. Travelers should also beware of talking and sharing information with others, or of saying anything derogatory. “They should also have good situational awareness, and keep their heads up, scanning crowds and identifying unsafe situations,” says Joelson. “If you bring a personal electronic device, you should expect that it has been compromised,” says Horner. Text messages and email will not be private, and he suggests creating an email address used only for travel. Don’t leave drinks unattended. Travelers from the U.S. should register at the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) operated by the U.S. State Department. “Plan before you travel and before you get to the airport,” says Horner.

The massacre in Las Vegas is both sadly familiar and terrifyingly novel. Because of the recent series of violent attacks on innocent people gathered in public places, high body counts are no longer unheard-of, although the 59 dead after the Las Vegas tragedy sets a depressing new record. These news stories have become so grimly commonplace as to dull our collective sensitivity to their shock. However, the modus operandi of the latest attack, apparently by a “lone wolf” – carefully planned and involving a stockpile of nearly two dozen guns gathered in a hotel room – prompts new soul-searching about how public events are secured, not to mention a re-evaluation of security in the hospitality sector. Public Events At Risk From Attack The sniper attack from a 32nd-floor room at Mandalay Bay, overlooking 22,000 people attending a country music festival, has been compared to “shooting fish in a barrel.” When the bullets rained down, there was nowhere to hide. The attack came from outside the “perimeter” of the event, so any additional screening of attendees would not have prevented it. Such attacks are not unheard of, but to what extent might it have been foreseen in this instance? It’s a new concern to add to the mounting list of possible risks at public events, such as a car in the crowd or a bomb in a backpack. Add to the list a firearm assault from above. If security is supposed to protect against that which is reasonable and foreseeable, this tragedy clearly expands the list. Preventative Measures For Sniper Attacks Certainly, there are measures that can prevent sniper attacks, such as police officer sharpshooters positioned on nearby rooftops scanning the windows of nearby buildings for potential threats. Such measures are routinely employed for high-security events such as a Presidential visit, but not generally for a country music concert. Should organizers of public events reevaluate the level of risk, now that the dangers have been demonstrated in a dramatic and deadly fashion? Broadly speaking, nearby buildings with lines-of-sight to public areas are a new security risk to be considered. Might public events need to be located somewhere else? What about parades down city streets, or Times Square at New Year’s Eve? New York’s Police Commissioner James O’Neill may have said it best: “We do understand that no city or town in this country is completely immune.” Security In Hospitality Sector The implication of the Las Vegas massacre for the hospitality industry is an additional issue. Hotels and resorts such as Mandalay Bay have not generally embraced technologies like the explosives scanners or X-ray machines used at airport terminals, at least not in the United States. Most hospitality companies keep their focus on things like limiting theft, controlling unruly guests, or keeping strangers from roaming the halls. In contrast, hotels in the Middle East and Asia, where there has historically been more chance of violence, have a higher level of security. Hotels and resorts such as Mandalay Bay have not generally embraced technologies like the explosives scanners or X-ray machines used at airport terminals Even in Las Vegas, where the gaming and hospitality industries embrace video in a big way, the emphasis is not on watching guests who may be stockpiling firearms. What might the impact of greater security be on guests and, by extension, a hotel’s business? In a competitive market that emphasizes the guest experience, any negativity suggested by additional security measures would likely be evaluated carefully lest it impact the bottom line. Anything perceived as invasive of a guest’s privacy would be frowned upon. Our appetite and/or tolerance for tighter security in the wake of a tragedy will inevitably dissipate over time. In short, the hospitality industry is likely to continue to be a “soft target” for years to come. New Security Training And Technologies Might a higher level of training among hotel staff to promote awareness of suspicious behavior make a difference? It’s a low-profile, comparatively low-cost possibility many hospitality professionals will be looking at in the days to come. There are less obtrusive technologies on the market that could help. For example, Steve Wynn, CEO of Wynn Resorts, has said they have installed “non-visible” metal detectors at every entrance. One manufacturer of such equipment is PatriotOne Technologies, which offers a “cognitive microwave radar technology” embedded in a wall or stand-alone unit at a controlled access point. The company made news at last week’s ASIS show by announcing integration of its system with March Networks’ video recording solution. Concerns For Security Trade Shows The latest tragedy hits especially close to home for those in the security industry who travel to Las Vegas every year for the ISC West show. Mandalay Bay is at the other end of the strip from much of the ISC West activity, but the attack still seems to hit directly in our neighborhood. Next year, the security market will be going to Vegas at least twice, for ISC West in the spring and again for the ASIS 2018 show in the fall. Somewhere in the midst of those events may be a solution that could help prevent such tragedies. We can all hope so. Meanwhile, our thoughts are with the victims of the Las Vegas massacre, their families and friends. Infographic: How To Prepare For Active Shooter Incidents

Technology is a valuable tool for increasing security, but occasionally technology can create a threat. An example is the threat 3D printing technology poses to one of the most mature security technologies, mechanical locks and keys. The ability of 3D printing to duplicate keys presents new challenges for lock manufacturers, and new vulnerabilities to end users. Keys that could previously only be duplicated by skilled thieves can now easily be copied using off-the-shelf technologies and information widely available on the Internet. In this case, technology offers a solution, too. A new kind of key cannot be duplicated by 3D printing. Ironically, it is manufactured using 3D printing techniques. UrbanAlps Stealth Key A Swiss company called UrbanAlps has introduced the Stealth Key, a key that is designed and manufactured from the inside out. The mechanical elements that enable the key to uniquely open a matching lock are hidden away inside the key beneath a pair of narrow ledges, where they are not susceptible to being scanned and duplicated using 3D printing. UrbanAlps offers a range of cylinder locks and keys based on the Stealth Key concept. A high-tech padlock incorporates additional security features such as a shrouded shackle to avoid cutting, anti-drill capabilities, and resistance to lock picking. Stealth Keys are made using 3D printing and a laser to fuse together successive layers of metallic powder added in a manufacturing process called "successive layer melting." Manufactured from the inside out, complex internal features are "printed" and then covered over later with a solid layer that shields the complex inner workings from being duplicated. Unveiled at the Intersec show in Dubai earlier this year, the Stealth Key is aimed at retailers, hotels and other commercial entities. It is less expensive than other technologies designed to shore up the security vulnerabilities of 3D printing, such as keys that combine both mechanical and electronic components. The company’s website touts “simple and affordable key copy protection.” Unveiled at the Intersec show in Dubai earlier this year, the Stealth Key is aimed at retailers, hotels and other commercial entities 3D Printing Challenge Locks and keys are among the oldest security technologies, dating back to Egyptians and the Romans. Their value has been proven over the centuries and they continue to provide security in many applications, even in today's high-tech environment. However, 3D printing presents a challenge. 3D duplication became a high-profile problem in 2015 when 3D printable computer-aided design (CAD) files for Transportation Security Administration (TSA) master keys were published on the Internet. Those are the keys used by airport security staff to open private suitcases for inspection. The files allow the keys to be duplicated and used to successfully open TSA-approved locks. The hacking of security systems is nothing new—most electronic security systems have been hacked, or have the potential to be hacked in the future. Increasingly, security involves an ongoing one-upmanship between the good guys and the bad guys – the programmers and the hackers, the white hats and the black hats – whether the technology is computer systems or even the locks and keys that have been around for centuries.

Access control system specialist Nortech has recently seen a luxury hotel in Bath update its car park by replacing its existing Nortech FeeMaster system with the latest specification. Nortech’s FeeMaster range was installed by access control system experts APT Security Systems, which is currently updating its past application of the FeeMaster system, so that staff can continue to monitor use of the hotel’s car park. APT Security Systems is the provider of vehicle access control and traffic management systems in the UK. Using its experience in designing and delivering practical and cost-effective solutions, APT installed the updated system which includes the FeeMaster Smart Entry Station, FeeMaster Smart Exit Station, and a FeeMaster Smart Console inside the building. The console allows the staff to control any misuse of the car park and ensures that there are enough parking spaces for its guests. Upgrading Car Parking System To Latest Version Nortech’s FeeMaster Smart parking management system is a flexible, simple and cost-effective way of managing car parking accessMary Lynskey, Operations Manager at APT Security Systems commented, “Nortech’s systems have been used on our projects for a number of years and as with this hotel we are currently updating the equipment at these sites to the latest versions. We have worked with Nortech for more than 20 years and are very pleased with its equipment.” She continued, “The FeeMaster range has always worked well for the hotel and they were happy to renew the system as it’s the right fit for their business. The client likes how the products work and we will always recommend Nortech to others looking to upgrade their car parking systems.” Nortech’s FeeMaster Smart parking management system is a flexible, simple and cost-effective way of managing car parking access and controlling validity periods using Mifare smart cards. This avoids the need for expensive cabling between components and minimizes disruption. Functioning Of The FeeMaster System The FeeMaster Smart exit station prevents unauthorized vehicles leaving a car park or entering restricted areasThe FeeMaster entry station is designed to be used to record the date and time that a vehicle enters a car park. Located at the entrance of the car park, it issues tickets to visitors as they arrive, with each ticket containing a barcode, serial number and the date and time. Dispensing the ticket triggers an ‘open’ signal to the entry barrier. The ticket is then taken to the hotel’s reception desk where the date and time is used in conjunction with the FeeMaster Smart Console. The FeeMaster Smart exit station prevents unauthorized vehicles leaving a car park or entering restricted areas. Located at the exit of the car park or the entrance to a restricted area, it validates the Mifare smart cards and exit tokens. The exit station is equipped with a barcode scanner to read exit tokens issued by the FeeMaster Smart console, as well as entry tickets issued at the entry station. Each ticket is valid for single use at the exit station during the validity period assigned to it. The exit station controller checks the details on the barcode ticket and sends an ‘open’ signal to the barrier. Encoding Reusable Mifare Access Control Cards The FeeMaster Smart Console is a compact and easy-to-install device that reads barcode tickets issued at the entry stationThe FeeMaster Smart Console is a compact and easy-to-install device that reads barcode tickets issued at the entry station, calculates the fees based on pre-programmed tariff details, and encodes reusable Mifare access control cards with validity data. If necessary, the console can print customer receipts and/or barcode exit tokens. It can also control a till drawer and can optionally provide a relay output signal which can be used by third equipment i.e. barrier control whenever a card has been encoded or an exit ticket printed. The console may also be connected to a PC so that transactions can be analyzed and additional tariff management features may be used. Nortech has supplied products and solutions to the security industry for over 25 years as an independent British company. The company uses extensive experience and expertise to create new security products to fit their clients’ needs and designs everything with the customer in mind. 

One of the world’s most famous hotel-chains, DoubleTree by Hilton, part of Hilton Worldwide, has selected a high-performance fire system from Advanced Fire Systems Inc. at their eight-story, 366 room hotel in Boston, Massachusetts. The challenge was to replace an existing system, integrate speakers to all guest rooms and ensure that all audio messages and strobes were fully synchronized across the hotel, in the event of a fire situation, without the need for costly re-wiring. Advanced Audio System The Axis AX system was the preferred choice of the client too thanks to its voice communication system, coupled with PerfectSync" An Advanced audio system was specified by the stylish, four-star, DoubleTree by Hilton Boston North Shore as it met regulatory requirements for the low frequency 520 Hz warning tones necessary for the sleeping areas of the hotel and its award-winning emergency communications system, PerfectSync, synchronized tones and digital messages to ensure compliance with local codes. Christopher Whitmarsh, President at Hayden Systems, Inc., commented: “I was confident that the Advanced equipment could meet the application requirements based on my knowledge and experience with the equipment. In this case, the Axis AX system was the preferred choice of the client too thanks to its voice communication system, coupled with PerfectSync, ensuring the hotel adhered to strict guidelines. The system integrated seamlessly into the fabric of the building and provided the client with a solution that met their needs as well as satisfying the rigorous demands of the local fire authority.” PerfectSync Emergency Communications System PerfectSync automatically synchronises audio, voice and strobe signals across Advanced’s Axis AX fire alarm networks dynamically, as conditions change. Synchronization of audio and visual signals across multiple notification zones, floors & areas, prevents confusion in an emergency situation and aids in meeting intelligibility standards. Using high performance, distributed, digital amplifiers that come standard with an integral backup amplifier and power source, should a fire spread to an adjacent floor or area, audio and visual indicators come on immediately, and the audio messages will quickly synchronize with any identical audio message on the system. Advanced’s Axis AX Fire Alarm System Advanced’s Axis AX system has been designed to offer enhanced power and performance in a user-friendly format Advanced’s Axis AX system has been designed to offer enhanced power and performance in a user-friendly format, offering a vast range of configurations, control and interface options all with simple set-up and operation. The Axis AX systems includes easily networked panels, audio panels and command centers, DynamixSmoke smoke control and a huge range of peripherals, devices and interfaces that make it ideal to suit almost any fire and life safety application. Advanced Fire Systems Mike Troiano, President and CEO of Advanced in the USA, said: “Advanced fire systems are specified in some of the most famous and prestigious hotels across the world and it was a pleasure to work with our customer Hayden Systems, Inc. to provide a system that will meet the rigorous standards required and ensure that the DoubleTree by Hilton’s staff and guests alike are safeguarded.” “PerfectSync insures synchronization of audio, paging and strobe signals without the need for special wiring or programming, it’s all done automatically by the Axis AX system. Since its introduction in 2014, Award Winning PerfectSync has built a solid reputation with engineering firms and fire authorities alike for its ability to deliver superior performance. The end result is a technologically advanced, easy to use audio and visual communications system that improves life safety for all of the occupants of a building in an emergency situation.”

Apstec Systems announces that its Human Security Radar (HSR), the first fully automatic real-time mass people screening solution, has been selected by Esenboga Airport, Ankara, to significantly boost security in land side areas. Chosen following a rigorous selection process, including a pilot installation, HSR will be installed at the terminal entrances as part of ongoing security enhancement measures by the Turkish State Airports Authority. It will enable people screening without slowing down the flow of traffic, with each system capable of scanning up to 10,000 individuals per hour. The technology was deployed in partnership with local distributer AKBA. Cost-Effective Solution The devastating attacks on Ataturk Airport in Istanbul and Brussels Airport highlighted the vulnerability of the land side of airports to terrorism The devastating attacks on Ataturk Airport in Istanbul and Brussels Airport highlighted the vulnerability of the land side of airports to terrorism. Since these events there has been global interest in securing the land side of airports, but traditional aviation style security checkpoints or manual searches, which scan one individual at a time, are not suited to purpose and result in large queues of passengers, which are vulnerable to attack in their own right. With existing approaches to security screening providing impractical, inconvenient and expensive to operate, terminals have remained susceptible to attack, or are subject to intrusive and disruptive security screening regimes. HSR was designed to address this challenge, and offers a practical and cost-effective solution to security screening in such high footfall scenarios. Enhanced Security Measures The first fully automated, real-time mass screening solution, HSR provides seamless security to protect public places from terrorist attacks. The walkthrough system uniquely combines unparalleled high throughput, speed and accuracy, simultaneously screening multiple subjects in real-time for threats, without the need for an operator to inspect suspect materials. With 40,000 passengers traveling through Esenboga Airport every day, the deployment of HSR will be instrumental in improving security for millions of people. Through deploying HSR as part of its commitment to terminal safety and enhanced security measures" “HSR constitutes a major breakthrough in the way airports protect the land side of terminals,” commented Osman Aksoy & Sirzat Balin,Co-Founders, AKBA. “Through deploying HSR as part of its commitment to terminal safety and enhanced security measures, the Turkish Airport Authority has taken a major step to prevent the reoccurrence of terrorist attacks.” Mass Transport Hubs Esenboga Airport’s uptake of HSR is the latest major deployment of the technology, which is currently utilised by some of the world’s largest airports, as well as sports stadiums, entertainment venues, mass transport hubs and networks, places of worship, hotels and high-end retail and entertainment centres. “HSR is proven to dramatically improve safety in crowded public spaces, and enables venue owners to close a critical security capability gap,” added Gregory Labzovsky, CEO, Apstec. “We’re therefore delighted to be working with Esenboga Airport to enhance safety for millions of travellers. AKBA, our distributor in Turkey, were instrumental in helping the Turkish Authorities understand the potential of HSR.”

One of Fortaleza's largest hotels, the Gran Marquise Hotel, which hosts thousands of people each year and holds hundreds of events, has reinvented itself and converted analog technology to IP surveillance. Upon project completion, it is expected that the Gran Marquise will have 250 VIVOTEK network cameras installed, integrated and linked with all other hotel devices under Genetec’s cloud-based video-surveillance-as-a-service (VSaaS) solution, Stratocast. About Gran Marquise The Gran Marquise is a five-star hotel of 18 thousand square meters located on the seafront of Fortaleza (Ceará). With a 23 year history, the hotel has a large infrastructure of 230 apartments ranging in size from 29 to 131 square meters, two presidential suites and 21 floors in total, of which 14 are dedicated to guest rooms 7 are retained for events, recreation and administration. The Gran Marquise realised that its security system needed to be renewed It is one of the most in-demand destinations among national and international authorities, artists and athletes, such as Bill Clinton, former president of the United States, Vladimir Putin, current president of Russia, singer Paul McCartney, rapper Snoop Dogg, as well as the fighters of the Ultimate Fighting Championship. In addition, the Gran Marquise was the first hotel in Brazil to achieve the ISO 22000, certificate that ensures adherence to extremely high standards of food quality and safety. Unified Security And Operations The Gran Marquise realised that its security system needed to be renewed. The hotel had 500 analog cameras and 22 digital video recorders installed – an extensive system, but one which only provided low-quality images and demanded heavy workload when it was necessary to locate and retrieve footage of a recorded event. "We looked at the hotel and realised that we had good internet, excellent rooms, perfect service, but if a customer asked for footage from security cameras, the only thing we could offer were noisy images," said Jussieudo Gomes, Security and Information Technology Division chief of the Hotel Grand Marquise Fortaleza. To solve this dilemma and improve the management and security of the hotel, a plan was formulated to develop a pilot project with VIVOTEK – a global provider of network cameras, PoE switches, and network video recorders, and Genetec, a global provider of IP surveillance software, access control and license plate recognition solutions. Installing VIVOTEK Network Cameras Divided into four stages, the goal of the project was to enable the total unification of management, security, marketing and commercial operations Divided into four stages, the goal of the project was to enable the total unification of management, security, marketing and commercial operations. In the first phase, 250 analogue cameras were replaced by a mere 48 VIVOTEK network cameras. Also installed was the Genetec Stratocast software, a cloud-based video recorder tool that eliminates the need for any local server, making it possible to monitor and share images with fully encrypted data. Two models of network cameras were installed throughout the hotel: one is the IB8369A, a 2-megapixel camera capable of capturing high quality video, with IR illuminators effective up to 30 meters for superior image quality throughout the day and night. The camera also features Smart Stream II technology, which optimises image quality for the most important regions in any scene; in doing so it can reduce network bandwidth consumption and storage requirements by up to 50%. The other camera installed was the small-scale, but big-featured FD8166, an ultra-mini fixed dome network camera with a tiny diameter of only 90mm. Genetec Security Center Solution "Because of the ‘L’ shaped layout of the hotel, we previously had five analog cameras installed on each floor: two in the corridor, because the distance from one side to the other was too long to be monitored by a single analog camera; one in front of the elevator; another covering the 'L' and one more covering the maid’s service area. "Now, each floor has only three cameras: one camera that serves the 'L' and the elevator; another that serves the corridor and one more observing the service area. At the reception area, the same thing happens, we put a different camera on the ceiling, and with just that solution we managed to cover the lobby, the bar, a part of the reception and the stairs of the restaurant, "explained Gomes. The Genetec Security Center solution was implemented for the internal parts of the hotel In the second phase, the Genetec Security Center solution was implemented for the internal parts of the hotel. With this platform, Gran Marquise can unify operations by combining all IP surveillance systems into one interface. Now all access control and video surveillance are connected to, and accessible through, the cloud. Unified Access Control And Fire Security The third and fourth stages are still in progress. The goal is to install 250 network cameras in total and unify the security system with access controls and the fire alarm system. In addition, the KiwiVision analytical software was also installed, a system which counts people automatically through cameras and 3D sensors and detects objects added or removed from a scene. This way it is possible to automatically detect if a dangerous object has left behind or if something has been stolen from a particular area. "The new security system has come to improve the image quality of surveillance, the layout of the hotel and the promptness of response to the customer. In the past, if we needed an image we had to expend great effort in searching whole files and spend hours watching videos to be able to select and retrieve the relevant event - not to mention the impact power failures, and malfunctions issues in power supplies, recorders and hard disk drives. ", said Gomes.            Video Security Integration The new IP surveillance infrastructure has already proven effective during a wedding held at the hotel The new IP surveillance infrastructure has already proven effective during a wedding held at the hotel. The bride had been in the spa area enjoying the luxurious Day of the Bride service. However, when she went to dress up for the ceremony, she did not find the jewelry she had prepared for the wedding. Security staffs were triggered to investigate the occurrence. “Through descriptions of the bag that carried the jewelry and the time when the bride last saw it, we were able to locate the footage though the synergy of VIVOTEK’s camera and the Genetec system, and then proceed to point of precise relevance in the video. We noticed that the bride carried the purse into the car, but on exiting the car she was no longer carrying it. When we showed her the pictures, she went to the car and the purse was there. If it wasn’t for the new IP surveillance solution, we would not have been able to ascertain what had happened, the bride would remember and find the jewelry only after the ceremony, and her day would have been ruined. This entire investigation process, finding the images and resolve the case, took only 15 minutes, but saved a very important day" said the security chief. Genetec Public-Private Partnership The Hotel Gran Marquise’s new security system is part of Genetec's private-public sharing initiative The Hotel Gran Marquise’s new security system is part of Genetec's private-public sharing initiative, which enables the sharing of certain cloud-recorded images with police forces. The Military Police, the Ceará State Government and the ABIH (Brazilian Hotels Industry Association in Ceará) are partners in this project along with the hotel. The purpose of this private-public partnership is that, with the monitoring carried out by private companies, the public sector can achieve a more effective action, speedily curbing the action of criminals in monitored places. The private-public partnership is founded on the belief that such sharing of private company surveillance with the public sector will enable a more expedient and effective curbing of criminal activity in such monitored areas. In this way, it is possible to expand monitored areas and reduce crime without direct public sector investment. Recorded images are transmitted in real time to the police, and a two-way relationship benefits both sectors. "The goal of projects with public-private partnerships is prevention. It is possible to increase public safety with little investment from the private sector," explained Country Manager of Genetec Brazil, Denis André Côté. With such initiatives, we are beginning to see the benefits of advances in total surveillance systems expand beyond those companies who take the initiative to invest in them and begin to serve the broader public.

3xLOGIC, Inc., a provider of integrated, intelligent security solutions, and a three-time Deloitte Technology Fast 500 winner, announced that Panda Restaurant Group, Inc. (parent of Panda Express, Panda Inn, and Hibachi-San) has completed deployment of 3xLOGIC’s VIGIL Trends Business Intelligence software to all of its North American locations. Interface Security Systems, headquartered in St. Louis, Missouri, is the integrator and overall project manager for this ambitious endeavor. Panda Express is the largest family-owned restaurant in America, with more than 2,000 stores globally, 35,000 associates and $3 billion in sales. Since it was established in 1983, Panda has steadily grown with roughly 125 stores opening each year. Privately owned and operated, the restaurant is guided by the core values of its co-founders and co-CEO, Andrew and Peggy Cherng and is dedicated to developing its team members and giving back to the community. As of today, Trends is deployed at 1,960 locations and has been integrated with existing Interface video surveillance and alarm systems Business Intelligence Solution “As an industry leader, Panda Express’s culture sets an expectation of best-in-class results,” explained Lyle Forcum, executive director of asset protection at Panda Express. “Accordingly, we needed a state-of-the-art business intelligence solution to provide us with truly actionable information. Intelligence we can act on is central to Panda’s business strategy, which focuses on meeting high standards through continuous operational improvement.” Starting in August 2017, 3xLOGIC and Interface Systems worked with Panda Express to customize Trends to meet the company’s unique, comprehensive needs. Interface began system deployment in QI 2018 with the first location going live in March 2018. As of today, Trends is deployed at 1,960 locations and has been integrated with existing Interface video surveillance and alarm systems. Integration With Intrusion And Video Systems “It was impressive that we were able to integrate Trends so seamlessly with existing intrusion and video systems,” said Sean Foley, senior vice president of national accounts at Interface Systems, “and the entire solution was rolled out without a single technician visiting any store.” Unlike many retail BI implementations, the focus at Panda Restaurant Group is not solely on loss prevention, but also on tracking and improving all operations at every store. Here are some of the key elements of store operations that Trends enables Panda to monitor, track, and improve: Trends provides intrusion data, which shows when stores are opened and closed, deliveries are made, and whether the store is being remotely armed and disarmed People Development. To set its people up for success, store managers are able to review all transactional behavior and address opportunity areas with employees within two days. Comparing Store Performance. The store managers’ Trends dashboard shows very clearly how the restaurant is performing compared to other stores in the region and to their prior month’s performance. Optimising Store Efficiency. Trends visually displays how many people are working per hour, what job they are facilitating, and the revenue generated per hour. Monitoring Intrusion Data. Trends provides intrusion data, which shows in a very simple display when stores are opened and closed, deliveries are made, cleaning is done, and whether the store is being remotely armed and disarmed. Tracking Cash. Panda Express can track currency, how much is in the safe and when it was last counted, as well as petty cash spend along with scanned receipts for purchases. Custom Dashboards. The system provides an array of dashboards for all levels in the organization that give an at-a-glance or drilled-down overview of an employee’s priorities and responsibilities. “At Panda, safety and loss prevention are key priorities in executing great operations,” said Lyle Forcum, executive director of asset protection at Panda Express. “We worked with 3xLOGIC and Interface for over a year to implement a highly-customized solution to meet these priorities. Now, we have a cutting-edge tool deployed across the entire enterprise that we can all be proud of.”

Cherokee Nation Entertainment (CNE) is the gaming and hospitality arm of the Cherokee Nation, operating multiple casinos and hotels across northeast Oklahoma, USA, including the prestigious Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tulsa. Concerned that their security team was spending an overly large number of person-hours reviewing video recordings searching for a single person of interest, CNE sought to reduce the time it took to review security footage, so their security team could remain focused on proactive tasks, and optimize their day-to-day efficiency. CNE also wanted to obtain and assess accurate data on occupancy and visitor trends for business intelligence purposes. Furthermore, CNE wanted to be alerted to security-related events in real-time, in order to handle security issues as they developed.  savVi’s Video Surveillance Solution                                   CNE selected savVi, Agent Vi’s on premise video analytics solution, due to the wide range of video analytics capabilities that savVi offers. Over 1,000 savVi licenses were purchased, allowing cameras at CNE’s ten Oklahoma-based casinos to be enabled with different combinations of real-time event detection, video search and business intelligence capabilities. CNE utilizes the video search capability most widely – to enable rapid search through the surveillance video to pinpoint events of interest – and therefore video search capabilities are enabled on the majority of cameras at the sites. Business intelligence capabilities are mostly deployed around the various gaming machines, and at entrance and exit points, to show traffic patterns and real-time people counts. Real-time event detection capabilities are used largely for the high-security areas to ensure that CNE’s security team is informed regarding situations, as they unfold. savVi is deployed through integration with a range of Axis network cameras, primarily the AXIS P3225 and Q3505 fixed cameras, the AXIS P5635, Q6044 and Q6045 PTZ cameras, and for outdoor vehicle search, the AXIS Q3708 fixed camera with three sensors. CNE uses Milestone XProtect Corporate Video Management System (VMS), which is fully and seamlessly integrated with savVi, a Milestone Certified Solution. savVi’s video search capabilities allow for verification of personal injury claims by customers who may be trying to defraud the casino savVi’s Real-Time Event Detection savVi’s video search capabilities are of considerable importance to CNE. There is a prevailing need for the casinos to be able to swiftly locate specific events within masses of footage (“incident remediation” as it is known within the entertainment industry). Among other things, this allows for verification of personal injury claims by customers who may be trying to defraud the casino. Previously, the security team’s time was heavily occupied by observing hours of footage in search of a specific person or incident. savVi now enables CNE to run the search automatically, allowing far more effective use of the operators’ time, and reduced search time from as much as 16 hours for a single search, down to a matter of minutes.  savVi’s real-time event detection capabilities are primarily used by CNE to ensure a safer and more secure environment within the casino parking facilities. By immediately alerting to any suspicious event, such as people loitering or cars moving in an unauthorized direction, the security team can monitor events and act accordingly as they unfold. savVi’s Heat Mapping Capabilities savVi also allows CNE to gather and analyze essential business intelligence data on occupancy and visitor trends. savVi delivers accurate headcounts, meaning that the security team is constantly aware of how many people are on-site and using the casino facilities. This provides essential knowledge in the case of an emergency where a facility might need to be evacuated, and also helps prevent over-crowding. By utilizing savVi’s heat mapping capabilities, CNE has knowledge of which areas of the casino are more heavily populated, and at what times. CNE can then leverage the data collected in a number of ways, including negotiating leasing deals for externally-owned casino equipment and knowing which internal locations require heavier investment of machines and personnel. This puts CNE well ahead of its competitors, as it is one of, if not the, first gaming company to employ Business Intelligence through video analytics. SavVi’s deployment in CNE’s casinos is an endorsement of the great benefit that savVi’s video analytics capabilities" savVi’s Video Analytics Capabilities “It was savVi’s swift and effective video search that caught CNE’s attention when searching for an enhanced security solution, in particular due to the automated query ability,” said Joshua Anderson, Director of Surveillance and Technology, Cherokee Nation Entertainment. “We have been extremely impressed with savVi’s capabilities and the quality of its performance, and fully expect savVi to increase efficiencies and provide true ROI which will have a major impact on the bottom line.”  “Cherokee Nation Gaming Commission’s approval of savVi’s deployment in CNE’s casinos is an endorsement of the great benefit that savVi’s video analytics capabilities offer to gaming concerns,” commented AJ Frazer, VP Business Development, Agent Vi. “Having selected to deploy the full range of savVi video analytics functionalities, savVi offers CNE valuable insights into the activities and customer experience at their multiple sites, benefitting both CNE and their customers.”