With the security system design in place, the client faced the challenge of deciding which technologies to deploy at the site. Specifically, it was integral for the client to choose the right video management system (VMS) to effectively manage the site’s complex video surveillance solution of thousands of cameras. The client approached Convergint & ICD to carry out extensive tests of eight leading VMS providers to help identify which platform would best meet their video surveillance and systems integration goals.

Having already designed the site’s security system, Convergint & ICD had a unique understanding of the site and the client’s requirements, plus an in-depth knowledge of a broad range of systems. The objective of the proof-of-concept (POC) testing was to verify the performance of the eight VMS solutions and their compatibility with over 200 different surveillance cameras from multiple brands.

The POC tests were carried out in just two weeks.The tests were observed by representatives from the client’s security and the operations team from Convergint & ICD. During the tests, Convergint & ICD not only acted as a facilitator but also as a bridge between the client and the VMS providers.

 All tests were conducted in an impartial environment with ordinary common network equipment and 204 different brands and specifications of cameras. The client had time to speak with each VMS provider, ask questions, and make their own notes and evaluations based on the VMS performance. After all the tests were concluded, the results were submitted as a report to the client’s top management to aid their decision about choice of VMS platform.