What are the Hidden Costs of Video Surveillance Systems?
When investing in a new surveillance system that will be in operation for years to come, the initial expenditure is only the tip of the iceberg. For the purposes of planning, budgeting, accounting, and projecting long-term impact, all aspects of managing and operating the project must be taken into account. This is what we mean when we refer to the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO).
For a video camera security system, this includes everything from the cameras themselves and management software to network resources, ongoing maintenance costs, and salary for employees working on the project. All of these factors — not just the first invoice — must be considered when trying to find the best system for your organization.
Jump to each section to learn more:
Top Considerations for Total Cost of Ownership
FAQs about Surveillance System Costs
• How much does an NVR or DVR video camera security system cost over time?
• How much do security cameras cost for a business?
• How much does it cost to install a CCTV?
• How much does it cost to install a security system?
• How much does network security software cost?
• What is the cost of labor for security camera installation?
• What is video surveillance as a service?
Top Considerations for Total Cost of Ownership
Simple line items (hardware + software)
Thinking about the Total Cost of Ownership means considering all the long-term expenses and resource outlays to come in the years ahead. But even with that in mind, the largest cost, especially in terms of an initial investment, will be the cameras themselves (the hardware) and the video management system (software). Some will cost more to configure and install, while others will be closer to plug-and-play right out of the box. Some will prove more reliable and go offline less frequently, while others will require a lot more service and care. But the big ticket items will be the largest factors in both the Total Cost of Ownership and the overall quality of your system.
Warranty
The concept of a Warranty is well known even to buyers of consumer electronics, and it is also common in the professional video camera market. With any reputable modern manufacturer, you should expect the devices, management software, and other components to function properly. However, defects or other issues can arise even in the best products, so having a warranty in place is anecessary safeguard for your peace of mind. The warranty should be included within the security camera price.
All Inclusive Software
All Inclusive Software, in the context of video security, is just what it sounds like. Some providers on the market handle it all. They manufacture the cameras (or provide them through third parties), assist with the initial installation, and take care of ongoing maintenance. This ensures that new features and updates will be integrated and that any unforeseen problems cause minor issues rather than develop into crises. In some cases, the provider may even oversee day-to-day operations in what may be called Video Surveillance as a Service (VSaaS). While some enterprises opt to buy all the hardware and software upfront and absorb the full operational burden, many others find that the partnership, all-inclusive model is a better fit because it provides more budget certainty in the form of a fixed security system monthly cost.
FAQs about Surveillance System Costs
How much does an NVR or DVR video camera security system cost over time?
A 10-camera surveillance system with an NVR will typically cost slightly more than the same system without an NVR. It is just one more thing to buy. But that difference may not seem significant when buying only a single device. There are longer-term ongoing maintenance and data security costs to consider, however, and they usually go up when the system relies on an NVR. Scalability is also a concern. The extra cost to deploy one NVR per location may not be significant at one facility, but it will add up over 10 — or 50 — sites. And even in a single location, adding more cameras can add to the pricetag. The larger the system gets, the more storage space is required from the NVR and this means either over-buying at the outset or continually expanding as your security system does.
How much do security cameras cost for a business?
Security camera cost can vary drastically. The biggest factors will be the quality and capabilities of each camera. Higher definition cameras, better lenses, and advanced modern features (such as motion detection and object tracking) will naturally cost more. The scale of purchase can also affect the price-per-camera. If you are a Fortune 500 company rolling out an extensive surveillance system at 1,000 sites nationwide, buying so many devices at once will likely yield some savings compared to buying a single camera.
How much does it cost to install a CCTV?
The surveillance camera installation cost (like the individual security camera cost) can vary drastically. The scale and scope of the project will be the largest determining factor along with how modern and “plug-and-play” the devices are.
How much does it cost to install a security system?
The cost to install a full video camera security system can vary significantly depending upon its sophistication and features. In addition to the difference in individual security camera prices, this is one of the reasons that it is very hard to provide an all-in-one average cost of a security system. If you share your video security goals with a specific provider, they should be able to offer you a range of price points that can fit your needs.
How much does network security software cost?
The cost of network video security software can vary significantly. It is also important to understand which software solutions function best (or at all, in some cases) with different security cameras.
What is the cost of labor for security camera installation?
Labor will always play some factor in the overall security system installation cost. But it is hard to nail down an exact figure for two main reasons. First, if you handle it internally with an IT professional who is experienced and needs little outside help, it won’t be an additional cost as much as devoting a staffer to the project. Or, in many cases, the setup and configuration can be managed by the provider of the equipment and the security camera installation cost will be combined in one package with the CCTV camera price.
What is video surveillance as a service?
Video Surveillance as a Service (VSaaS) is an increasingly popular option for enterprises to partner with a third-party expert for some or all of the design, installation, and operation of their video surveillance system. After defining the goals and strategy, the service provider can then handle the bulk of the system’s management and maintenance, which can be beneficial for organizations that need budget certainty or don’t want (or cannot realistically handle) the burden internally. It can also considerably reduce the initial upfront investment required while still allowing an organization to have the latest and greatest in video security.