Management platforms, the traditional VMS, form a core part of surveillance systems. Whether based on a mobile device for small home installations, or a complex VMS based in an onsite control room or in the cloud (or a hybrid combination with analytics in the cloud), these platforms provide the information needed to extract value from cameras.
In an increasingly IoT world, the VMS is expanding to integrate data from various sources and provide additional value to users. SMART Security Solutions asked three platform vendors in South Africa, one developed and maintained in the country with an international market, for their views on the state of the VMS market and where it is headed.
Our questions were put to the following companies:
- Marco Malavolti and Dean Sichelschmidt from Arteco Global,
- Mark Shepperson from Cathexis Technologies, and
- George Psoulis from Milestone Systems.
SMART Security Solutions: How has the VMS changed over the years? What do end users want today when there is simply too much data for operators to monitor multiple cameras in real time
Arteco Global: The most significant change is the shift from passive to proactive solutions. Originally, video management systems primarily recorded and displayed video. Today, VMS solutions include advanced AI-based analytics such as object classification, behavioural analytics and licence plate recognition, and can proactively alert operators before issues escalate.
The adoption of AI-driven features helps human operators to track real events in real time and quickly manage tons of information. VMS software has evolved into scalable platforms capable of handling thousands of cameras. Modern solutions like Arteco’s uSee are open and agnostic, allowing integrators and end users to choose devices that meet their needs. Interfaces have also become more user-friendly and web-based, supporting multiple operating systems and device types, including mobile.
In short, the VMS has evolved from a simple video-recording platform into an intelligent, integrated part of an organisation’s security and operations ecosystem.
Cathexis Technologies: Over the years, VMS solutions have evolved from simple video recording tools into powerful, intelligent platforms that help users manage vast amounts of video data.
Cathexis Technologies is a software development company and electronics manufacturer specialising in video management solutions. Our flagship product, CathexisVision, is an open platform VMS that empowers people and businesses worldwide to put video data to effective use, making life simpler and more secure.
CathexisVision has grown alongside these developments, continually expanding its feature set to meet the demands of increasingly complex sites and multi-site installations. Our product suite offers comprehensive, intelligent site management, and powerful solutions for seamless multi-site management. This means that end users can enjoy integrated, tailored solutions that filter vast amounts of data, identify relevant events and support quick responses, no matter where you are located.
