10 Ways NOT to blow your Security budget!

Worldwide events over the last 18 months have changed the world we once knew.

More than ever, you’ll be asked to trim budget costs and tightly manage new Security projects to maximise spend!

Understanding your security systems will save you a lot of money (and frustration) in the long term.

1.       Reactive call outs

Are you responsible for signing off or approving security related invoices?

a.       Look for and track the patterns of all reactive invoices

b.       Target your top three most problematic sites/issues

c.       Address the root issue 

2.       Compliance

Regulatory compliance for security systems can be a minefield if you don’t understand the regulations and requirements.

a.       Avoid unnecessary costs altogether

b.       Look for suppliers that listen and work with you to address security compliance

c.       Request the specific written legislation/compliance from the information source

d.       Do your homework – Review current service frequencies

3.       Batteries and Scheduled Maintenance

How well do you know your security system?  A detailed maintenance plan can:

a.       Reduce technician callouts

b.       Optimise battery replacement cycles & timing

c.       Bulk purchase

d.       Keep accurate maintenance records

4.       Access Control Capex – Hidden Opex costs

Before adding another Access Controlled Door,

a.       Understand the full extent of Capex costs

i.      Reader, electronic lock, emergency door release (EDR) and labour

ii.      Controllers, cabinets power supplies and batteries.

b.       Understand the hidden ongoing Opex costs!

c.       Think about cost-effective alternatives

5.       CCTV

a.       DON’T buy cheap cameras or equipment to save money

b.       Invest time in strategic planning of the system

c.       Always match equipment to specific risks

d.       Schedule your CCTV servicing with other work

e.       Budget for regular asset lifecycle replacements

Part 2 will outline the remaining 5 ways to help you keep your security budget on track, as well as the benefits of working with a formalised physical security plan.

If you’d like to know more about any of the areas mentioned above, please get in touch by filling out the Contact Us section on this website.

Knowledge, planning and strategy will save your budget!