Business Security Information

While trying to catch up on some of my reading this week, I came across an article from the December 14, 2009 edition of Forbes magazine which discussed computer-controlled vending.  A vending machine is equipped with an add-on box which captures all the transactions and transmits the information back to the company.  The boxes can also send an e-mail or text message when a vending machine sells out of an item.  This type of electronic device saves the vending company money in lower fuel costs and more efficient use of their manpower.  If you are interested in learning more, you can check out the website for Cantaloupe Systems .

What does computer-controlled vending have to do with security?  The Forbes article also discusses the fact that money savings from a more efficient vending operation is not the only benefit of using the computer monitoring box.  Companies have found that security is an added benefit they have experienced when using this type of device.  The device is capable of sending a message to the vending company when the vending machine door opens.  If this not a scheduled restock of the vending machine, the vending company can send a field manager out to investigate.  One company caught a former employee stealing cash and product from the vending machine.

Beyond just an interesting story, there is a point to me writing about computer-controlled vending.  My point is that even non-security devices or measures used by a company can have an unexpected effect on your company’’s security.  Secondly, and more importantly, is that when you plan to implement a particular security measure, look at how else it can benefit your company.  For example, many companies have implemented the use of security cameras to help improve the security at their place of business.  Security cameras can also be used to reduce the number of false liability claims, or they can be used to remotely monitor your place of business if the security cameras are so equipped.  Also, the security camera footage (security cameras should be recorded) can be used to train new employees regarding customer service or other types of business issues.  Do not look at security expenditures as a necessary evil, but look at them to see what other benefits they can have for your business.  Almost any security measure can be used for more than it’s original purpose.

Related posts:

1. Retail Security Cameras
2. Robbery Security Measure
3. Unified Threat Management–Do I Need It?