The security management software product company icomply have recently partnered with TIS, the fire, security and communications installer, on overhauling the security system of high street retailer Boots UK. The central security control centre at Boots had long since been in need of an update, with many of the analogue hardware becoming unfit for purpose and difficult to gather data from.
The retail chain originally approached TIS for some consultative feedback on the direction they might go within a given budget, and targets were set. Boots had also approached two other companies. Proposed was an upgrading 22 CRT monitors within the control room to eight LCD flat screens, which would serve as a display area for cameras. Not only would this free up space in the control room, making organisation and data collection easier, it meant that more areas could be surveyed at any time and the detail captured was clearer and easier to record.
For icomply’s part, there was a lot to do in a short time. Centralised server software had to be installed, to enable connectivity between the IP CCTV, intruder detection, intercom and access control systems, besides the central operator controls generally. One challenge was integrating the platform with varying equipment and different manufacturers’ devices. These included Synectics matrix integration, PC232 integration, and HIK and NVR integration.
The outcome is a single front-end graphical user interface, which can be used to gather and record data, and review. The Boots UK control room now has a GUI with easier navigation and mapping, which also unifies their technology in one space; saving on desk space and making sure that Boots are ready for the next generation of security technology, without having to compromise in the short term.
Nick Hollins of TIS, said of the project: “Boots UK are one of my key accounts that I look after for TIS, and when TIS were asked to look at upgrading the CCTV control room for Boots UK it was imperative that the solution I proposed was not only fit for purpose but offered a greater improvement to the control room CCTV system, whilst also fitting in with the very tight budget. The assistance I received from icomply all the way through this project was exceptional.
“Michael [Gallagher, business development director] as always was on hand to offer a technical solution and provide a quotation that was within budget and the installation and post installation support from Allan [Dickinson] and Paul [Bell] was again to the high standards I have come to expect from icomply. This project was delivered on time, within budget and met our customers high standards and expectations. This was down to the teamwork and professionalism of both TIS and icomply.”
For the full case study visit the icomply website.
About icomply
icomply offers the software platform V-TAS Pro that integrates security applications in the control room: for control of CCTV, Alarm Receiving, Lone Working software, Mobile Asset Control and more. Users are also in local government public space CCTV, such as Rhondda (pictured) and Slough Borough Council’s CCTV and Careline Centre.
