The connected home space is one of “activity but uncertainty” today. The security industry holds the advantage right now, with a built-in revenue model and expertise in integration; but the challenge will be not losing that edge as outside competition starts to figure it out.
In a market that is historically a code-driven ‘have-to’ purchase, small changes can have big impacts; and 2015 saw the continuing of that trend, with strong performance and a very positive outlook for 2016.
For a market characterized as stable, code-driven and conservative, 2015 seemed to be a turning point for many in the fire detection business, marking the true end of the downturn and the return to growth.
Fire alarm technology doesn’t move very fast, and there are very good reasons for this. Because fire is about saving lives, codes and standards dictate what is allowable, and it takes time to make sure each new development is absolutely safe.
If a security integrator from 15 years ago suddenly found themselves transported to TEC 2016, presented by PSA Security Network from May 9-12 in Westminster, Colo., they would note a whole lot of changes.
Why should the professionally installed security market care about DIY today? Because buyers are asking for it; technology is facilitating it; and proponents say it is good for business.
For years do-it-yourself (DIY) security existed on a parallel track with the professionally installed security system — rarely, if ever, intersecting. Not anymore.
Parking and gate controls are frequently a sub-specialty; but integration and demands for higher security at the perimeter are increasingly bringing it to the fore.
Parking and gate control is not for the uninitiated. By nature exposed to the elements and often challenging, it has traditionally been the realm of integrators that specialize in it
Thomas Marino, president of Advanced Technologies, Baton Rouge, La., had done “green” projects that involved low power, solar or other green elements. But when he ran into local attorney Joe Simmons at a trade show, the extremely environmentally conscious lawyer asked him to do the security and home automation for the custom home he was building.
The SDM editors attended ISC West April 5-8 in Las Vegas. Because ISC West is so big that no two people will have the same experience, the editors each shared in a blog impressions and trends they observed at the show.