A new report from Siemens Building Technologies, based on a study of about 10 universities, highlights the importance of security/surveillance technology in helping universities  enhance the safety of students and staff but also operate efficiently.

The report notes stark difference in the kind of security systems installed across the various universities, both in terms of age of the equipment as well as the level of sophistication.  While almost all universities surveyed had installed CCTV systems comprising upto 200 cameras, the report points out that these systems were yet to be state-of-the-art and scope for improvement.  Likewise, in the case of access control, there is a distinct move towards proximity cards and smart cards.

Cost seems to be a key deterrant in the use of the latest systems with the Universities opting to extend or modify their existing systems instead of opting for something totally new.

A detailed review of the Siemens  report can be found on SourceSecurity.com