Updating a campus security plan can be a daunting task. Where do you even start?
There are many types of campuses – K-12, university, corporate, or hospital – each with its own specific security challenges. Yet, there are many common first steps to consider when beginning a new plan.
If you don’t already have a trusted security integrator, begin searching for one who best meets your needs. From the start, most integrators will want to conduct a risk assessment. Think of an assessment as a roadmap for your future planning. An objective view of your current indoor and outdoor security plan highlights any strengths and weaknesses, allowing you to focus your limited resources on areas needing improvement.
Any project is more likely to succeed with initial buy-in from top administrators. They are likely the group who will approve any final budget. Also, working with the IT team from the beginning is important in today’s wireless, networked world. And don’t forget faculty, staff, students, and even parents, if appropriate. They will live with the plan each day. It’s also a good idea to gather opinions and feedback from local first responders.
At this point, the plan is ready to specify equipment, set budgets, and have start and completion dates. You should consider the system’s overall scalability to ensure what you do now will be able to grow with your campus.
There’s still a lot of planning ahead for a major security update. Any project’s ultimate success begins with a well-planned start.
For more information about school security planning, visit Aiphone’s comprehensive and free downloadable eBook, “Best Practices for Keeping Students Safe: A Guide to Campus Security.”
Brad Kamcheff is Aiphone’s Marketing Manager.
