Identive discusses PIV impact on the private sector

Editor / Provider: Identive Group | Updated: 5/22/2013 | Article type: Security 50

Since launching the HSPD-12 (Homeland Security Presidential Directive 12, Policy for a Common Identification Standard for Federal Employees and Contractors) secure credentialing program in 2004, millions of smart cards have been issued to US Government employees, military personnel and contractors. As a result, the government has streamlined and standardized the process used to vet employees and process their identities and credentials, and has defined and implemented a standardized, single credential to grant access to physical and logical security applications.

Government employees across all federal agencies now are required to use a single, secure photo ID badge to authenticate themselves, gain access to doors, gates and portals at government buildings, carry biometric and other information in a secure manner, log on to their computers and mobile devices, digitally sign emails and encrypt disks, files and emails.

With this US Government initiative, for the first time, standards were applied to all elements of the identity, credential and access management ecosystem of an organization. Developed by NIST (National Institute of Standards and Technology), the Federal Information Processing Standard 201 (FIPS 201) governs the way in which federal employees provide their identities, and the workflows associated with capturing personnel data, processing credential requests, producing the credential and getting it to the employee are strictly defined. Following the FIPS 201-mandated process provides a high level of trust in the credential, which allows it to be accepted across different agencies, and to perform more functions than a typical, locally-issued proximity credential could be trusted with. These credentials are commonly referred to as PIV (Personal Identity Verification) cards. As of today, millions of PIV cards have been issued to federal workers, including both military and non-military government employees and contractors.

To produce the high volumes of smart cards the government requires for its PIV credentials, a number of agencies, including the GSA (U.S General Services Administration), established sophisticated identity and smart card management systems that not only print visually secure ID badges, but also encode the smart card chips with agency- and personnel-specific data, biometric information, encryption keys and digital certificates.

Government standards also aid enterprises
It took a lot of work by the government and industry, but the FIPS 201 standard that supports HSPD-12 has made real the promise of trusted, enterprise-wide credentialing and multiple applications on a single credential. Success at the federal agency level has stirred interest among government contractors and commercial enterprises, many of whom share the problems as the government –identifying all employees, and securely managing those identities and their credentials across multiple sites.

There are various forms of FIPS 201 credentials that are available to private and commercial organizations, allowing them to benefit from the research and data models that have been implemented and shown to be effective by the federal government. Examples include TWIC (Transport Worker Identity Card), use by workers at maritime facilities and ports, FRAC (First Responder Access Card) for police, fire and other local government emergency response personnel, and PIV-I (PIV-Interoperable Cards) for non-government personnel that may need to have access to US Government sites and data as if they were government personnel.

And there are CIV Cards. The Commercial Identity Verification Card provides a model for technical compatibility with PIV-based systems deployed by the federal government. The CIV card doesn't require the same level of identity proofing or issuance workflow required to obtain a PIV card, but does provide a framework that non-government organizations can use to issue very secure, multifunction smart card credentials. Technically, PIV-I and CIV are virtually identical; the difference lies in the issuing process. CIV issuers must follow the same enrollment, verification, separation of duties and full background checks that the federal government follows to issue a PIV card. CIV holders are then considered vetted to the same standards as a government employee or contractor, and their credentials are handled with the same levels of security as a government-issued card.

CIV cards for smaller organizations – issued through the cloud
But what if instead of millions, your organization consists of thousands, or maybe hundreds of employees? While high assurance, smart-card based credentialing programs would provide more secure physical and logical security tools and policies, the investment of hundreds of thousands of dollars required to implement such a card management system would likely be a challenge.

This is where cloud-based credentialing, or “identity as a service” can play a role. These services allow users to bypass the smart card infrastructure investment and to create, manage and distribute secure, certificate-based smart card credentials such as CIV cards through the cloud. ‘Pay-as-you-go' models offers one fixed price so you pay only for the users you need, as you need them, eliminating the complexity and operating costs associated with managing and deploying an internal smart card identity project. This approach offers significant savings by avoiding upfront capital and ongoing management costs of replacing, installing, maintaining and managing onsite servers and systems.

Typical identity as a service solutions allow an organization to define its own credentialing workflows, badge designs and encoding data for physical access, logical access, digital signing and encryption. Badges can be printed by the service in bulk, one at a time, or even at the customer's facility, if they prefer to have printers and the associated supplies and support mechanisms on site. Remote employees can log onto the service, follow the predetermined workflows, and create their own badges, which are then mailed to them in a secure envelope.

By taking the complexity out of designing smart card data models, encryption, encoding, printing and issuance, cloudbased credentialing services make true, secure smart card functionality and deployments available to all organizations.

Outside the U.S., there are similar programs starting or already going on all over the world that use smart card-based credentials issued via the cloud. The underlying technology that creates secure, trusted identity credentials is gaining momentum. And we can be curious what the future will bring.

Genetec ALPR parking payment system now interoperable with third parties

Editor / Provider: Genetec | Updated: 5/20/2013 | Article type: Security 50

Genetec announced a new Pay-by-Plate Sync feature for AutoVu, its license plate recognition (ALPR) system of Security Center, the Company's unified security platform. The AutoVu Pay-by-Plate Sync feature allows users to easily consolidate multiple third-party systems into a single parking solution.

With this latest version of AutoVu, Genetec brings the benefits of an open architecture to parking enforcement and management, so customers are no longer locked in to a particular solution. Genetec customers get the freedom to choose various parking technology solutions based on their requirements, and as their needs evolve, they can change suppliers for citations management, parking meters or mobile phones, without needing to re-invest in their enforcement system, ensuring business continuity and minimized costs.

"Most parking-payment systems don't work well together because they simply weren't designed to be compatible-and they usually offer little-to-no levels of integration," said Chris Yigit, Senior Product Manager for AutoVu at Genetec. "With our new AutoVu Pay-by-Plate Sync feature, we can help our customers easily tie-together their disparate parking systems into one elegant solution."

By simplifying the ability to create an end-to-end pay-by-plate (PBP) solution customers can now select and integrate different vendors that were not otherwise compatible; including suppliers of parking and permit management systems, parking meters and pay-by-phone solutions.

With AutoVu Pay-by-Plate Sync, it is now also possible migrate to an end-to-end PBP solution without having to replace every single piece of the system. By acting as a central aggregating database, Pay-by-Plate Sync uses the license plate number as the key identifier, enabling more efficient enforcement and parking management-while making parking easy for consumers.

Pay-by-Plate Sync works with a wide variety of parking permit types, including residential permits, university semester permits, employee permits and shared permits, as well as transient parking transactions from pay stations and pay-by-phone systems. Genetec AutoVu supports the following parking technology suppliers: T2 Systems, Cale, Parkmobile, Parkeon, Aparc Systems, Digital Payment Technologies, PayByPhone and Global Parking Solutions. Additional partner integrations, leveraging the Genetec open platform architecture, are being added in the coming months.

Fermax releases new kits for residential and SMB applications

Editor / Provider: Fermax Electronica | Updated: 5/8/2013 | Article type: Security 50

Fermax Electronica recently released a new intercom kit for residents and SMBs. The collection offers in a single reference, all the necessary equipment required for a video installation of up to eight apartments, monitors included. These kits have: one reference, equivalent to a complete video door installation. The integrated terminal is the iLOFT PURE, that with fine design and the possibility to install it surface mounted, becomes the main novelty of this interesting proposal.

The new kits that Fermax introduces in the market have it all: the outdoor panel and its flush box, the power supply and when necessary, the distributors and the extension modules. And now, for the first time, the monitors are included as well. All in a compact packaging, exceptional for its sturdiness and easy storage.

The iLOFT PURE monitor, is the star product of this family of kits, it is a terminal with a compact size, slimline profile and minimalist aesthetic that has conquered the most demanding architecture and that will now multiply its presence in the domestic market thanks to these kits.

This monitor is prepared for surface installation, so that it can be used in new construction or in replacement works. The terminal has a 8.89 cm (3.5 inch) color screen, maximum sound quality and hands free operation. In addition, it includes new user options such as tone selection and do-not-disturb function. For the installer the main advantage is that it may be programmed directly from the installed monitor with no need to intervene from the outdoor panel.

Fermax proposal for outdoors, are the Cityline panels with pushbuttons: a sure value resulting from putting together the classic aesthetic, robustness and reliability. With color camera which includes illuminating LEDs for night vision.

These iLOFT kits include VDS digital technology, so installation can be carried out with 3 wires and coaxial, CAT5 UPT cable or 5-wire. It even allows conversion of an analog door entry into a digital video entry system. The same technology can also expand the installation with a second access and additional terminals (one monitor or two telephones).

Grow with Security 50 in Asia

Editor / Provider: Hayden Hsu, asmag.com | Updated: 5/7/2013 | Article type: Security 50

More than half of the a&s Security 50 were present at Secutech International in Taipei this year, through on-site exhibits/booths and event presentations. As Asia's premier original manufacturers' show for global solution seekers, Secutech gave the supercharged representatives an opportunity to share with the asmag and a&s team the top 50's growth strategy and focus for the year. Asia's fast rise, vertical/geography-appropriate offerings and localization efforts were among some of the recurring themes.

For all the Security 50, the Asian region passed 2012 with flying colors and double-digit growth, and most stressed the continued, heightened focus on the region, with more investments in securing or recruiting appropriate partners, product developments and personnel. Take Bosch Security Systems for example. China is now an independent region with a new, locally brewed VP reporting directly to the German headquarters. The local R&D center also has sufficient ammunitions and local talent to develop what is truly needed and used in China and Southeast Asia.

Other parts of the region — such as Mongolia and all the way to Australia and New Zealand — are also brimming with opportunities, from high-end government and MNC projects to lower-end verticals like hospitality, residential, SMBs, education, health care and more. The 50 are all busy "attacking" weight-appropriate markets and partners with the "right" tailored and cost-effective solutions. As the region is not known for clear channel structure, more are engaging in road shows and events to reach out to installers and end users directly.

It is a fun time for security professionals to be in Asia. Stay tuned to this channel for more exclusive interviews and video contents on developments in the region!

Affordability & Simplicity
For more coverage on industry trends, please visit asmag.com.

US university pilots biometric access at dining hall

Editor / Provider: Natural Security | Updated: 4/9/2013 | Article type: Education

Natural Security (NS) announced a new partnership with Spartan Shops, the retail and residential dining service provider for San Jose State University (SJSU) in California, to implement biometric authentication at the university's residential dining hall. Biometric authentication used for the SJSU dining hall that receives up to 7,000 customers a day, combines mid-range contactless technology. Biometric information is stored on student's mobile phones, while fingerprint readers are employed at the hall entrance. The project is to start in July this year.

“With almost 2,500 unlimited-entry meal plan members at the university, we needed a more efficient system for authenticating students to access to the residential dining hall,” said Brian Mitchler from Spartan Shops. “The NS authentication method improves security and will allow us to monitor access more effectively, improving internal processes.”

Students will be able to enter the dining hall by simply placing a finger on a biometric reader situated at the entrance and without the need to handle or expose their personal device. The end-user biometric data is only stored in the personal device the user carries so it is always under their control.

 “As each device contains the students' unique biometric information it cannot be used by anyone else,” said Cedric Hozanne, CEO at Natural Security. “This removes many of the usual issues surrounding security, for example impersonation, because of loss or theft.”

The project aims to evaluate the effectiveness of the technology and collect feedback on usage experiences from the participants to feed into future projects. Following a successful trial the new system will be rolled out to all 3,000 students accessing the residential dining hall. This same method of authentication may also be extended to other university areas such as access to premises, access to online resources or even transport.

Honeywell expands home automation systems to include lighting control

Editor / Provider: Honeywell Security | Updated: 4/4/2013 | Article type: Security 50

Most residential and commercial models from Honeywell's popular VISTA series of alarm panels now support lighting, shade and temperature control technology from lighting-control pioneer Lutron Electronics, giving security and home-automation professionals a greater range of options when designing connected-home systems for their customers.

By supporting Lutron's RadioRA 2 Total Home Control System, the VISTA panels allow installers to offer homeowners the ability to save energy and create lighting scenes based on whether their security systems are armed. For example, the Lutron system can be programmed to turn off lights, close shades and roll back the temperature if the alarm panel is armed, either through a keypad or remotely. Additionally, the solution can turn lights on if the alarm is tripped by an intruder.

"Home protection should never be an afterthought, and more of our customers today understand that security needs to play a prominent role in any home-automation system," said Rich Black, director, residential product management and business development, Lutron. "Combining the RadioRA 2 Total Home Control System with the VISTA panels makes it that much simpler for system professionals to deliver value to their customers."

Both the Honeywell alarm and Lutron RadioRA 2 system are available through the ADI distribution network.

"Advanced technology has become an expectation for today's homeowners in terms of comfort, energy efficiency and personal protection," said Alan Stoddard, senior marketing director, Honeywell Security Products Americas. "As a result, interest in home automation has never been higher. Having our wider range of VISTA panels support the RadioRA 2 system means more homeowners have an easier path to a home automation system."

Honeywell on 2013 mega tech trends

Editor / Provider: Honeywell Security | Updated: 4/1/2013 | Article type: Security 50

The cloud, mobile-device proliferation, and easier system integration are some of today's key technology trends reflected in the new products and services. The lineup will include enhanced versions of several Honeywell products that have drawn praise from the security dealer and integrator communities for their abilities to simplify installation, operation and maintenance, while also helping those professionals distinguish their businesses.

The newest versions of LYNX Touch 5100 and Tuxedo Touch wireless security systems highlight the residential systems, while commercial offerings such as Pro-Watch access control, the MAXPRO family of NVRs and the recently announced MAXPRO Cloud 3.0 hosted video will also be demonstrated.

Specific enhancements visitors will learn about include:
LYNX Touch 5100 – Scheduled for release later in Q2 is an updated version of the award-winning, self-contained, wireless system with Z-Wave integration and Wi-Fi alarm communications. The LYNX Touch 5100 wireless system extends its connected home capabilities by offering advanced sensor technology for garage-door control, as well as alerts for severe weather such as tornadoes. Beyond the ability to simply control garage doors, however, the LYNX Touch system can sense if a garage door is accidentally left open during a pre-designated time set by the owner – and then closes the door itself automatically. This sensor advancement can pave the way for future capabilities in the connected home space.

Tuxedo Touch touchscreen controller with Honeywell Total Connect Remote Services – Pairing Honeywell's popular touchscreen controller with Honeywell Total Connect remote services ties together all of the technology in users' homes and businesses – such as security, cameras and Z-wave enabled lights, thermostats, locks and shades – to increase comfort, enhance lifestyles and make more homes and buildings energy efficient. Integration with Honeywell Total Connect allows home and business owners to control the system from any Internet-enabled device, including smartphones, mobile tablets, PCs, laptops and others from anywhere in the world. The combined solution will be available in late Spring.

MAXPRO Cloud 3.0 hosted video service – Announced earlier this month, the latest version of the award-winning, hosted-video system gives companies more options for storing surveillance clips; it's among the first in the security industry to combine local storage, USB-based storage, a networked attached storage appliance, and cloud-based backup. Its enhanced online tools, including a digital dashboard, allow users to easily manage surveillance across multiple sites, improving overall security while reducing costs.

MAXPRO NVR 2.5 – The latest portfolio of MAXPRO network video recorders and their software-only options are fully compatible with Honeywell's new line of ONVIF Profile S-compliant IP cameras. Other enhancements include integration with smart video motion detection, 360-degree camera support and a calendar search. Its new virtualization support for NVRs saves end users time and money by allowing them to use existing servers to virtualize video surveillance on the same infrastructure.

Pro-Watch 4.1 security management platform – The newest version of the widely used Pro-Watch security management platform allows security professionals to more-easily design “connected-business” systems using a Honeywell software development kit. The open system also now supports Salto disconnected readers, which secure entry ways more effectively without traditional hardware and wiring. Additionally, the latest version is compatible with Honeywell's Vindicator Standard Edition intrusion detection system, which now enables large commercial sites to use military-grade protection to secure their perimeters and manage event information gathered from interior and perimeter intrusion, video detection, access control and fire systems.

2nd largest bank in France upgrades to digital recording

Editor / Provider: Grundig Security | Updated: 3/29/2013 | Article type: Commercial Markets

Societe Generale, the second largest bank in France recently deployed Grundig Security video surveillance equipment to help combat armed assaults that target ATMs and cash-in-transit vehicles. The bank upgraded each of its branches to a digital video recording solution, each with local and off-site recording capability, which amounted to 1,200 video recorders. It also added 2,000 hidden and external Grundig cameras at its branches, vehicles, and ATM points.

According to a recent survey by the National Observatory of Crime and Criminal Responses, such incidents have increased by 75-percent within the last 2 years. “Banks, cash-in-transit and cash handling providers are being targeted by criminals and this type of crime can often be violent,” explained Andre Molinengo, Alarm Monitoring Center Manager for Societe. Societe chose Grundig because its systems offered the level of security required, without compromising business operations, and due to its comprehensive understanding of the statutory requirements.

The external cameras operate effectively, day and night, in busy town and city environments. The cameras also provide privacy zones when used in residential areas. Each branch is centrally monitored, so remote access and multiple, simultaneous user operation is enabled. The bank implemented full HD video for evidential purposes, and by combining video and audio detection technologies operators could respond to incidents in real time, said Molinengo.

Assa Abloy releases 2012 financials

Editor / Provider: Assa Abloy | Updated: 3/29/2013 | Article type: Security 50

Assa Abloy has recently announced its 2012 financial results. The company reported a 12-percent increase in sales of US$7.15 billion (SEK 46.6 billion) and organic growth was two percent compared to 2011. Operating income also grew by 13 percent to $1.15 billion. Emerging markets in Asia, Africa, Eastern Europe and Russia contributed to the large number of sales, while demands remained weak in mature Western Europe markets. In terms of product sales, mechanical locks accounted for 38 percent of sales, followed by electromechanical and electronic locks (22 percent), and security doors and hardware (18 percent).

The company's EMEA division sales totaled to $2.05 billion with organic growth of one percent. Operating income excluding restructuring costs amounted to $349 million, with an operating margin of 17 percent. In the Asia Pacific division, sales totaled $1.10 billion with organic growth of three percent. Operating income excluding restructuring costs amounted to $149 million, with an operating margin of 13.5 percent. Return on capital employed excluding restructuring costs was 20.7 percent. Demands were strong in Asia markets, but negative in Australia. Sales rose further in China, where market demand slowed during the year.

Sales totaled to $1.48 billion in the Americas division, with organic growth of four percent. Operating income excluding restructuring costs amounted to $307 million with an operating margin of 20.8 percent. Return on capital employed excluding restructuring costs was 23.6 percent. Sales rose mainly in high-security products and electro-mechanical products, combined with recovery of the American residential market.

According to Johan Molin, President and CEO of Assa, despite the global financial crisis the company's sales had jumped by 34 percent from 2008-2012, and its operating income increased by 36-percent over the same period. The company weathered the crisis by focusing on emerging markets and is committed to expanding its presence in emerging markets. Assa had seen shares of sales triple over the last seven years to a total share of 25 percent, remarked Molin.

Getting good vibes from the Mideast

Editor / Provider: John Shi and Jill Lai, a&s International | Updated: 3/28/2013 | Article type: Hot Topics

In this feature, a&s collects feedback from active channel players in the Middle East, in an attempt to share best practices in business development with solutions providers interested in expanding in the thriving region.

Al Taaraf Group of Companies
Al Taaraf set up its operation in the Middle East region in 1985 under the brand name of Proline UK, associated with Proline UK Electronics. Al Taaraf is extensively involved in supply and installation of security systems in the Middle East and Africa. We mainly work with the brands from Korea, Taiwan and the U.K. to cover the products from CCTV, access control, intrusion alarm and support local system integrators to compete with some multinational brands as well.

Al Taaraf supplies security systems via several outlets in Dubai, followed by a group of highly qualified technical staff. Having several sub distributors in each country of this region, Al Taaraf extensively concentrates on the Middle Eastern market including Iran, African countries and Pakistan. Al Taaraf is privileged to achieve many industry firsts in the Middle East — the first member of BSIA (UK) and HDcctv Alliance, and the first company certified with ISO 9001:2008 in security trading. We supply our customers with analog products, which account for approxi?mately 50 percent of our total sales volume, and IP as well as HD-SDI products, around 35 percent. We have held a very strong market share since the first day we were established.

We see high potential in IP and HD-SDI products, for their high-image quality and real-time performance, and fiber optics, the solution for the long-distance transmission. We also launched fire alarm systems so that our buyers can have one single source to buy all the security equipments.

Business Automation & Security Systems
The good thing or advantage of Samsung products is that the products are so flexible that you can easily uses them to approach all market sectors. Samsung Techwin is strong enough in commercial & hospitality markets, especially hospitals, hotels, school buildings, residential buildings, and retail. To meet the demands of those markets, the products should have high performance and competitive prices. Samsung Techwin is able to meet both requirements. Samsung has launched a full range of products targeting end users such as in small shops, villas, construction offices and any other personal use in very low cost — they come in one simple package, where cables, brackets, outdoor weatherproof IR cameras and DVR are already connected inside. Users don't need any technical background for installation. What users have is like basic connection. This helps them save on high installation fees and achieve security.

IP TEC General Trading
The hospitality and banking sectors are the first to demand HD video quality in the Middle East market, followed by the medical sector. Our policy is always to be at the forefront of technology and once again, we are focusing our recourses to provide first hand support and training to our customers in the HD CCTV evolution.

We have two divisions within our group — traditional stockist master distributor setup created for large-scale sub distributors who have already penetrated their market and constantly rely on our efficient deliveries from our huge stokeholds, and a value-added distributor who provides business development support for new comers in the market, or exiting sub distributors who want to venture in new fields of security. Our customers combine our two structures with their own local knowledge to gain an edge over their competition and excel in their business.

Johnson Controls
In the Middle East region, Johnson Controls operates through a multi-channel strategy in the market. We have our own Johnson Controls offices in various countries across the Middle East as well as authorized partners in others. Our goal is to serve customers in the most effective way for us to meet and exceed their needs. Historically, Johnson Controls operated through channel partners and selected direct presence. In 2005, we acquired York International, a major equipment provider with a strong presence in the Middle East. This launched a new chapter for Johnson Controls and allowed us to extend our presence, get closer to our customers, and serve them throughout the lifecycle of their buildings. The Emirates Towers, a famous project here in Dubai, was one of the largest prestigious building management system (BMS) projects that Johnson Controls completed in the late 90s. In later years, another opportunity rose from the ground as Johnson Controls completed the complex security on the tallest building in the world, the Burj Khalifa. As our business grew, so did our presence, and Johnson Controls is continuously expanding across the Middle East region.

As we look to be closer to our customers, Johnson Controls is not only strengthening our own offices, but also growing and expanding the capabilities of our partner distribution channels. Through this approach we will be able to strategically align our expertise in the market and deliver solutions to customers which are built around their needs. Our ability and expertise to deliver everything from chillers to complex security integrations and technology contracting is a differentiator which sets us apart from our competitors.

Our strength grows even further specifically in transportation, healthcare, and commercial buildings. We've also worked closely with government municipalities and maintain strong relationships with ministries across the region. These entities value Johnson Controls expertise and frequently approach us as a trusted advisor in helping to design the highest level of complex security in their geographies. Johnson Controls recognizes that integration is core for complex security, and this is where our strength lies. We have thousands of integrations and multiple custom development teams which allow us to create operational and energy efficiencies, ultimately leading to a greater return on investment for our customers.

Norbain
Norbain has been active in the region for approximately 18 years. However, we began our investment in the region in 2005 with an office in Dubai and have continued with that investment; in December 2012, we opened a new office for the Saudi market. This is a continuation of our strategy, to not only invest in the U.A.E but the Middle East region. The Middle East region, as well as our other regions, is covered by an experienced multilingual international sales team that has unrivalled experience in a wide diversity of sales and regulatory environments, and political, cultural, economic, and social situations.

As a value-added distributor and solution provider, we are a specialized security one stop shop. For sure the fact of having a wide portfolio of security products with well trained personnel to support our sales team helped us in this market by allowing us to add value to our partners' businesses, and enabled us to tackle most of the projects with complete turnkey solutions.

Schneider Electric
Our primary focus will be on the enterprise segment market that includes airports, seaports, marine, oil and gas, as well as upscale shopping complexes, and hotel properties. Public infrastructure and hospitality will serve as key drivers of our business. The rapid technology convergence has seen video emerge as an integral part of the network infrastructure of enterprises. Consequently, integrators are becoming increasingly involved with building related technology, leading to an IP-centric business model. Schneider Electric specialists are highly skilled with a complete understanding of both the hardware and software of complex, customized, and integrated systems that must be implemented to meet the needs of different facilities.

At Schneider Electric, we benefit from working closely with specialist system integrators in various areas such as security, building automation, access control, and video management among others. Our manufacturing capabilities are further complemented by a particularly strong channel partner network that forms the framework of our distribution operation. As part of efforts to support our channel partners and end users, Schneider Electric is committed to providing them with ongoing training. Towards this end, we have established a dedicated training center in Dubai offering courses, workshops, and certification.

Undoubtedly, major projects require the resources and network of a multinational company such as Schneider Electric. Our relationship with our partners ensures that projects are managed and executed according to specific schedules. For mega projects such as airports, it is often a prerequisite of the client to work directly with Schneider Electric.

Siemens Building Technologies
The Siemens Building Technologies division offers a comprehensive portfolio of products, solutions and services for building automation, fire safety and security. This offering ensures that buildings are energy-efficient and that any kind of critical infrastructure is protected. We address our customers in two ways: Through our own channel, using the local Siemens branches for installation as well as service and maintenance afterwards. The other channel that is especially important in this region is by working together with our value-added partners. We are looking for strong local partners to provide our Siemens fire safety product range to the customers and enable them to be successful through proper local support, e.g. training, application, and product launch support.

In many emerging countries, our customers prefer working with local companies to collaborating with multinational companies from somewhere abroad. You see this, for example, in Brazil right now, where they are preparing for the Olympic Games and the soccer world championships. They prefer local companies and value adding partners to install and maintain Siemens fire safety products. By doing so, we create added value in the country. In terms of the capabilities of local partners to do the job, we see a strong development in emerging countries, too. Especially here in the Middle East region, our local Siemens partners do a great job, really adding value with their highly skilled and competent engineers.