August 23rd, 2017
Our Northern Alberta Division entered the security technology realm in 2001. The intent was to complement its primarily personnel-oriented services. In doing so, they established Canada’s first central monitoring centre where video monitoring, GPS tracking, and lone-worker monitoring services were conducted.
Software was in its early-development stage at the time. Security systems were standalone, and hardware was expensive—$2,000 for a single 14-inch flat screen monitor! Northern Alberta Division leveraged their experience while simultaneously keeping abreast of developing technologies.
As costs reduced, software improved and smart phones changed the industry in general. Commissionaires evolved with the cutting-edge practices of the day, all while designing the Work Alone Protection Service which continues to see increased demand for 24/7 coverage.
Immediately following a two-year renovations program, Northern Alberta Division undertook an upgrade of its operations centre.
First to go? The furniture.
Dark and dingy desks, hardware and literally hundreds of kilometres of cable were removed. The room was refreshed with a brand-new floor and ceiling, and electrical finishes to match the brand-new headquarters. This included variable height work stations, individually-controlled task lighting, and integrated systems controlled by each operator as required.
Next? The technology.
A state-of-the-art Phoenix video management system, along with a large-format video wall and integrated operator stations were installed. The old, dark, monitoring centre was transformed into a brighter and more functional space with attention paid to the operators’ ergonometric needs.
The operators are very pleased with their new environment and there has already been renewed interest from potential clients on what the Division can do for them.