Security systems integration is becoming more and more complex as technological advancements and customer demands rise. The traditional role that systems integrators (SI) used to play, one that of equipment installers, no longer suit the current requirements. We asked several large Asian SIs what they see as the mo
Security systems integration is becoming more and more complex as technological advancements and customer demands rise. The traditional role that systems integrators (SI) used to play, one that of equipment installers, no longer suit the current requirements.
We asked several large Asian SIs what they see as the most required qualities in the field. Their answers varied, but one common aspect was the importance given to people.
“One of the key criteria for being a good systems integrator today is knowing that you have the right people,” said Mary Anne Ortiz, Marketing Officer at Alcon Philippines Technologies and Solutions. “Systems integration is a people business, every step in the process requires personal observation and approval. Having a team with proper training, knowledge and mindset could make every project less tense, because by having the right team, flexibility, responsibility, reliability, ability to handle pressure, and everything else in between will be served.”
Once you have a strong team, the focus should be on the customer and their requirements, while remaining up-to-date with the latest developments in technology and market.
“More effort in engaging the customers and delivering what the customer really wants,” said William Goh, Executive Director at ADP Tech. “System integrators also need to continue to widen their knowledge so that they can offer a holistic solution from front-end to back-end. In Chinese, we have a saying that means ‘you can always win if you really know your customer.'”
Related: How can systems integrators profit when product-prices decline? From a technology perspective, SIs should be able to provide solutions that allow flawless integration, bringing together several devices on to a single platform.
“A single platform to seamlessly manage many types of hardware, software applications, power and network infrastructure is critical,” said Verghese Thirumala, MD of Maxitulin. “With ever increasing threats, both internal and external, critical information received at command center for monitoring officers to effectively communicate and respond to a threat to stake holders is of utmost importance,”
In short, an ideal SI should have the right people, know their customer and have the technological knowledge and skills to provide best services. A good relationship with the concerned manufacturers will also come in handy.