What to look for in a business security system

Investing in a security system for your business should be just as important as investing in a home security system. Unfortunately, while there’s a lot of information out there for those needing help choosing a system for their home, it can be hard to know what commercial security system is right for protecting your business. 

The good news is that security companies like SimpliSafe are making it easy for businesses to have the same security setup that you can get at home, but at the scale needed for a commercial property. 

But, where to start? What features and equipment will be ideal for your business? It begins with knowing what to look for in a business security system. 

The importance of a business security system

Nowadays, a lot of the talk surrounding “business security” comes in the form of cybersecurity, and protecting all aspects of the business online. Though this is definitely just as important, let’s not forget about businesses with physical properties. With more and more businesses returning to brick and mortar operations (especially with people eager to get back outside as the COVID-19 pandemic subsides), business security systems are more important than ever.

Facts about business burglaries

But, with doors opening up again, businesses are experiencing a downside. Though the rate of burglaries in the United States has decreased overall in recent years, retail theft is on the rise according to an article by the New York Times. Unfortunately, this trend has left small business owners vulnerable.

No matter the size of your store, restaurant, cafe, commercial property, etc., implementing a business security system is imperative to protecting not just the goods inside, but the people who work there. 

What to consider when investing in a business security system

Just like your home, when it comes to a commercial security system, there’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. What type of system you invest in will depend on many different factors. 

Here’s what to take into consideration, first:

What’s at stake?

First and foremost, you should ask yourself what’s at stake if the business were to get burglarized. Are you guarding millions of dollars worth of jewelry? Are you a cash business? Do you have workers who would be in immediate danger if there was a break-in? What about personal data stored in physical servers? 

How big is the property?

Are you a street corner shop or a warehouse? Though size is certainly not the most important factor to consider (it’s what’s on the inside, not the outside), a larger building means more vulnerabilities with multiple ways of accessing the inside. That means your system needs to have reach. 

What’s your budget?

How much do you want to spend on your business security system? It’s okay to have a specific budget in mind, and these days, it’s also easier to find a system that matches your budget. That being said, never neglect your security with the hopes of saving a buck. After all, a burglary could cost you far more than the cost of a security system—and some things, money can’t replace. 

What type of equipment will you need?

Guarding your business can require a variety of different security equipment. Depending on the answers to the questions above, you might be unsure of what equipment would be ideal, or how much of that equipment you’ll need to ensure the level of protection you’re looking for. For example, think about security camera placement. Will you need an outdoor security camera, or will indoor security cameras suffice for your situation?  Starting with a business security package like The Business Essentials System can help, and you can always add on as needed. 

Do you need help installing the system?

Generally any system can be self-installed or professionally installed (or, a mix of both) depending on what you need help with. For example, a SimpliSafe Business Security System can typically be self-installed in a matter of minutes. But, just as with homes, there’s always the question of wireless or wired security systems. Your answer will depend on the size of the property, what’s at stake, and your budget—as well as what’s feasible in terms of installation.  

Who will be in charge of the system?

When installing a new security system for your business, think about who will be in charge. Who will have the passwords or the codes to the alarm? Who knows how to arm and disarm the system? Will you need to train staff or will a manager be the only one who can lock up? You’ll  might want separate access codes for the different employees that will need to arm and disarm your system, so don’t forget to consider this factor when selecting a business security system.

What type of monitoring and support do you need?

Last but not least, consider the type of monitoring and support you’ll need from your security provider. After investing time and resources into installing a system, it’s important to know it’ll work up to its fullest potential. So, in terms of monitoring, understand what you’re getting—or can get—in addition to the equipment. Most businesses will opt for an interactive monitoring plan to expedite help in the case of an emergency, but a variety of monitoring options are available.

Get started with a business security system

All these factors considered, it can still be difficult to know exactly how to start planning for your business security system. SimpliSafe has helped nearly 100,000 businesses save thousands of dollars a year, and we don’t have hidden fees or contracts. Whether you want to jump right into browsing business security packages or you’re looking to ask some questions, contact us today to learn more.