Adding a new security system rarely means throwing the old ones out entirely. More often, it’s a complex, ongoing process of finding a way for the new systems to sit alongside the ones that you already use. And that process of integration is often the trickiest part. Systems overlap, staff habits get in the way, and budgets don’t stretch far enough to replace everything in one go. So, where do you start?
Take stock properly
The first step is boring, but absolutely essential. Make a full list of what’s already in place – alarms, cameras, access points, monitoring software, and even the smaller, context-dependent bits people forget about.
In larger organisations this often uncovers surprises: doors still on old mechanical locks (despite a supposed digital transition to systems from Traka years before), duplicate systems running side by side, or a “temporary” fix from years ago that’s become permanent. Without this groundwork, you’ll only end up layering confusion on top of confusion.
Spot the connections
When you look at new systems, the focus shouldn’t just be on what they replace – also ask where they can and do connect with existing infrastructure and processes.
Some software will link straight into existing cameras or fire alarms. Others will need middleware or adapters, and some things simply won’t fit together at all.
Vendors often promise “seamless integration”, but in practice, it’s rarely anything close to seamless. A realistic checklist asks: which parts already integrate with minimal additional work, and which will take extra work to get things together?
Think about how people use it
Security isn’t just hardware – if only it were actually that simple. In practice, it’s embedded in complex and ever-shifting staff routines, and those can make or break integration.
If the new access control means people need separate badges for different doors, they’ll get frustrated. Too many logins or apps, and people get annoyed and look for ways to simplify their work life.
One card for both new and old doors, one monitoring screen instead of two – those details make the system easier to live with, which results in it actually being used properly.
Trial before complete rollout
It’s tempting to switch everything across the business in one go, but when systems overlap substantially, that’s usually a recipe for chaos. A smarter approach is to pilot the integration in one site, or even one floor. That way, you can see how the old and new behave together, catch bugs, and adjust before scaling up.
This should have made the whole thing somewhat easier to get a handle on. In most cases, you’ll want to start by mapping what you already have in place. Look for connections, and try to estimate how new interactions will arise. Factor in staff behaviour, and pilot changes before full rollout. And, most importantly perhaps, accept that integration is ongoing work, not a single project. That way, the old and new systems can actually support each other instead of pulling apart.
