Is Your Grand Forks Business Ready for Security Cameras? What to Know Before You Buy

Thinking about installing security cameras in your Grand Forks, ND, business is a smart move. It's not just about catching thieves; it's about protecting your assets, ensuring employee safety, and gaining valuable operational oversight. But before you head to a big-box store, it's crucial to understand that a business security system is very different from a simple home setup.

Here are a few key things every Grand Forks business owner should consider.

1. What Are Your Goals?

First, define what you want to achieve. Are you focused on:

Theft Prevention: Monitoring cash registers, stock rooms, and entry points.
Employee & Customer Safety: Keeping an eye on public areas and parking lots.
Liability Protection: Having video evidence in case of a slip-and-fall incident.
Operational Oversight: Observing daily operations to improve efficiency.

Your goals will determine the type and placement of cameras you need.

2. Choosing the Right Cameras

Not all cameras are created equal. For a business, you should be looking for commercial-grade cameras that offer:

High Definition (HD) Video: Clear footage is essential. 1080p is the minimum, but 4K cameras are becoming more affordable.
Good Low-Light Performance: You need to see clearly, day or night.
Weather Resistance: For any cameras placed outdoors.
Remote Accessibility: The ability to view your camera feeds from a phone or computer.

3. Where Will You Store the Footage?

This is the most overlooked—and most important—question. Many off-the-shelf systems push you into expensive monthly cloud storage plans where you pay a recurring fee forever.

We advocate for a better way: owning your storage. As UniFi experts, we often recommend their camera systems which integrate seamlessly with their own Network Video Recorder (NVR). This is a small, secure device that lives at your business. You get all the benefits of remote access without the monthly fees, and you retain complete control over your own security footage. While we specialize in UniFi, we can also implement other solutions to fit your specific needs.

4. Professional Installation Matters

While DIY systems seem easy, professional installation ensures there are no blind spots, the cameras are focused correctly, and the network can handle the video traffic without slowing down your business operations. An IT partner can integrate the system properly, making sure it's secure and reliable from day one.

Conclusion

A well-planned security camera system is a powerful tool for any Grand Forks business. By focusing on your goals and choosing the right hardware and storage solution, you create an asset that provides security and peace of mind for years to come.

Shameless Plug

Don't navigate the world of business security alone. Axiom Solutions can help you design and install a professional, affordable security camera system tailored to your needs, often utilizing Synology systems to save you money on monthly fees. Contact us for a free consultation.