Security is an important component for any San Francisco, CA business. Retail businesses have obvious targets in the forms of the desirable products sold that could easily be resold on the black market. Banks are another high-value target since they contain cash. But even commercial, industrial and office-based businesses contain equipment and data that can be profitable for thieves if they get hold of them.

If you're just starting your business in San Francisco, CA and you have a facility that you need to secure, you'll be looking at all your security enhancement options. But how do you actually get the systems that will protect your business? Just follow the points in this guide to see how!

Know Your Requirements

What will you be using your security measures for? Do you want to monitor indoor areas, as with a store, outdoor areas, to see who approaches, or both? Do you live in a part of the country with lower outside temperatures in the winter? Will you need your cameras to function in low light levels, or even use infra-red? Do you need access control systems like key cards or keypads to restrict access? Before you can shop for security systems, get an idea of what you want secured. You may want to consult with an expert at this point, to give a rough outline of what you hope to achieve, and see which systems can meet your expectations.

Research Your Vendors

Now that you know what kind of security you're looking for, who can supply it? Is there a company in San Francisco, CA that can handle your security camera needs and access control requirements? Do you need another company for an electric fence? Carefully look into what the companies offer in terms of security products and see how many of them can match up to your list.

Installation & Maintenance

What will the installation process be like? How much will it impact your business? Wireless cameras, for example, are much less intrusive for installation than wired cameras, which will require cabling either attached to walls or floors, or installed behind walls, if you want the cabling out of sight.

Then there is the operating cost. Beyond the fee for installation, how much will a security system use in your monthly operating budget? Will there be additional subscription services for alerts and responses? Will the system require frequent repair or recalibration?

Ease & Expandability

Finally, look into the ease of use for the system. Can you, for example, view security footage from a mobile device such as your phone? Can you store the footage on outside sources beyond a built-in DVR system in San Francisco, CA, such as the cloud, or your phone or other computer? And what about the future? If you need to install more cameras or access control systems, does your plan for security mechanisms take expandability into account? Can you simply add more, or do you have to scrap everything and start over? Always make sure you have satisfactory answers to these guidelines as you plan your security system. They can mean the difference between an unwelcome expense, and a wise investment.