Securing Intelligent Building Management Systems (IBMS): Where to Start

Whether we’re depending upon the IoT or the networks that link them, our worlds are increasingly connected – and increasingly more vulnerable to cyberattacks. The SIA, in partnership with the ASIS FoundationTM and BOMA International, recently produced a report warning against security weaknesses in Intelligent Building Management Systems (IBMS), which rely on the IoT and the networks that connect them. The report also recommended measures to take to protect buildings now. Titled “Building Automation & Control Systems: An Investigation into Vulnerabilities, Current Practice & Security Management Best Practice,” it provides a smart roadmap for identifying and fixing IBMS vulnerabilities.

 

IBMS is a swiftly growing industry. By 2022, experts expect it to reach $104 billion. Right now, it’s moving at a rapid clip of 15 – 34 percent growth each year, fueled by demand for less maintenance, more control and operability and greater energy efficiency. As the IoT continues to explode, IBMS can potentially achieve even greater growth, especially in the residential market. Additionally, with increased pressure to build environmentally friendly buildings, IBMS has an important place at the table. Commensurately, the intelligent building security market is also exploding, with 31 percent growth per year. This will equate to $59B+ by 2023.

 

How Do IBMS Work?

The systems are known by various names, including Facilities Management System, Building Management System, Intelligent Building, Smart Buildings, Building Automation System and Intelligent Business Management Systems. Whatever their name, they all function the same way, as automated building systems that pull together the many building functions and information flow processes into one central decision point.

 

IBMS incorporate a widespread gamut of technologies and scopes. A home heating system is one small example. A more complex system like a high rise Smart Building would integrate several systems, including lighting, elevators, HVAC and life safety systems, along with administrative, business and maintenance functions. Of course, security is becoming an increasingly sought after component, in the form of surveillance cameras, access control and intruder detection.

 

An IBMS is a modular system that can be scaled up or down, and there are three levels of integration that control it:

  • Management Level: This is where the human interface lives. The management level controls the system using workstations, servers and network switches that can manage one room or can operate a larger facility system, overseeing both the plant and its equipment with lighting control, energy management and maintenance.
  • Automation Level: These are the primary control devices like routers and controllers that are networked through controllers and use open-source communication; they provide the interface between the user interface and the field devices.
  • Field Devices Level: These are the sensors or activators that measure equipment, like temperature sensors, valves, light switches, fans and PIR detectors.

 

Since several systems must be integrated, proper connectivity is key. Although there’s no one protocol, many systems rely on LonWorks, Internet Protocol, BACnetTM and Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP). This is where security vulnerabilities can creep in.

 

How Secure Are IBMS?

These systems have a number of upsides, namely decreased operating costs, increased control, monitoring and operability and government regulation; however, security professionals aren’t always prepared for their inherent security risks. In fact, the SIA report discovered a disconcerting disconnect between the perceptions of threats in this industry and the reality. Since it’s a new and burgeoning field, there aren’t standards in place and many strategies remain siloed, so they require a holistic approach. Like other security risks, IBMS vulnerabilities must be addressed by all stakeholders.

 

What do these vulnerabilities look like? The systems are designed to be automatic and responsive, so in a residential building, an IBMS will come to life when a resident uses his access card to enter his building. The system will open the doors and set the lighting to his predetermined levels, then turn them off as he enters another space, thereby saving energy. On the commercial side, an employee’s smart phone could serve as a credential to grant him access, thereby capturing information about the employee’s arrival time. His cashless interaction with the parking garage could be automatically deducted from his paycheck, which is linked directly to that system. You can start to see the serious security issues that might arise from these convenient connections, both on the physical and cyber sides.

 

Getting Secure

How can you mitigate the risks associated with maintaining an IBMS? The SIA report recognizes five levels of severity, ranging from Low Level to Moderate Level to High Level to Extreme Level to Critical Level risks. The most effective way to determine your specific risk it to identify your criticality level, check off the items that you’ve already addressed, and use the rest of the items as a checklist to be assigned to the correct person/people in the future.

As with any networked system, constant vigilance is key. If you need more information on securing your networks or other systems, contact us here. We can help you identify and eradicate these growing threats.

 

 

 

 

Get the most out of IST’s S.H.I.E.LD Support Portal

IST’s S.H.I.E.L.D Support Portal, designed to give clients secure 24/7/365 access to their service tickets, is live. The web-based interface makes it easy for clients to collaborate with IST service personnel, run ticket reports and prioritize their requests quickly and efficiently.

The S.H.I.E.L.D Support Portal serves as a regular, dedicated point person, enabling more frequent and consistent collaboration between our clients and service personnel, especially since it’s web-based. Service tickets can be created and managed even when service personnel are handling other projects.

How the S.H.I.E.L.D. Support Portal Works

The process is simple and intuitive. When you open a ticket, the ticket emails the dispatcher to set up an appointment. You’ll receive an email stating, “Your ticket has been received.” You’ll then receive an email letting you know that there is a technician available to help with that project, and it will provide the timeframe within which this technician can be expected to arrive. The technician makes notes in real time as he or she corrects the issue, and closes the ticket once the issue has been resolved. The ticket is an ongoing source of information for both the client and IST.

We provide 24/7/365 availability for service requests. Our dispatcher is available Monday through Friday (8am-5pm) to route requests. After hours, we maintain a toll-free call line to handle requests made outside of normal business hours. All requests are prioritized by the terms of your service contract and the severity of the issue. Response time and time to resolution can vary, but IST can generally address and remedy a problem within four hours or by the next business day. System critical alerts generate emergency service; IST can respond that same day, especially if the location is local to an IST technical resource.

Getting Started

IST’s S.H.I.E.L.D Support Portal is a time saver for all of our clients. If you’re not already using it, or interested in learning more, we can share a brief demo of the portal. Or, click here if you’d like more information about S.H.I.E.L.D.

What Is a Security Systems Integrator and Why Does Your Business Need One?

What Is a Security Systems Integrator and Why Does Your Business Need One?

Sometimes there’s confusion around what today’s security systems integrator looks like. So, let’s clear it up. A security integrator essentially links various subsystems to provide security throughout your organization. These include physical as well as cyber protections, including access control like doors, locks, gates and others; video surveillance systems; lighting; emergency notification systems; and network security. Most integrators can install hardware, software, networks and hybrid IT solutions, as well as specialized security equipment.

Why Do You Need a Systems Integrator?

Unfortunately, cyber crime is on the rise. Physical violence at the workplace is also a real threat, especially for certain industries. As the cyber and physical continue to converge through the Internet of Things (IoT), the risks grow graver. Power plants and other utilities can be made vulnerable by unsafe software, hospitals’ sensitive patient information can be hacked and used for criminal activities, ransomware is rampant. No one is safe if they’re connected. If you use email, keep any type of digital records, or rely on your network for business, you should be thinking about security.

Fortunately, security systems integrators can help.

What Does a Security Systems Integrator Do?

Security systems integrators secure people, data and property, but their level of service can vary widely. Some deliver “off-the-shelf” solutions and install them for you. Others go beyond this to manage the entire process, starting with a recommended security plan, moving through installation and implementation, testing and finally management and maintenance. This is known as the full lifecycle. These higher qualified providers can custom-build a security plan for you, and will generally follow these steps:

  1. Provide an initial assessment of your security needs
  2. Design a holistic security system to address these needs
  3. Install the software, hardware, networks or other required equipment
  4. Custom create other systems when needed
  5. Provide training to those managing the system on your end
  6. Offer ongoing maintenance, assessments, upgrades and service

Whenever possible, it’s smart to partner with a full-service systems integrator. Since they’re responsible for ongoing maintenance and service, they take ownership of the entire system and have a vested interest in providing excellent services. With one team managing the entire lifecycle of your systems, you’ll also avoid the finger pointing and miscommunication that can plague a team of multiple vendors. Also, a partnership provides valuable continuity throughout the project, so you’ll ensure that your integrator is very familiar with your company’s ongoing needs.

What to Look for In a Systems Integrator

Ask yourself these important questions as you conduct your search:

  • Are they a good cultural fit? Do your priorities align? Are you comfortable with them?
  • How about their services? They may match your objectives now, but what about in the future?
  • Are they in the know? Since threats are proliferating faster than ever, the means to counter them are as well. Find a systems integrator up on the latest systems and ensure they’re vendor agnostic, so they can provide smart and reliable recommendations.
  • Are they experts at efficiency? Bringing multiple systems together means there are opportunities to create higher efficiencies. A security systems integrator can link the lighting with access control, so that when fewer access cards are swiped in one area of a building, the lights can be adjusted accordingly, saving energy and money.
  • Are they IT smart? As the physical world collides with the IT world, it’s critical to have a deep understanding of coding, programming, troubleshooting and ongoing maintenance. The Internet of Things means that everything is now connected so everything is now vulnerable. Are they prepared?
  • Are they third-party verified? Do they have the important certifications? SSAE16 and ISO-certified data centers help you achieve compliance for HIPAA, SOX, and PCI DSS.
  • Do their employees have certifications? Certifications show dedication to excellence.
  • How trustworthy are their employees? What types of screening do they do?
  • What are their manufacturer relationships? Providers with strong partnerships can resolve issues faster. Check their partner status, certifications and direct access to manufacturers’ L3 engineers.
  • How secure is their datacenter? Do they have biometric authentication, 24/7 in-person and video monitoring, and user records? How about full redundancy and disaster recovery systems?
  • How do they manage their daily relationships? Do they have a portal for daily security updates, service level reports, and troubleshooting requests, as well as communication hubs for feedback and best practices?

There are many security systems integrators out there. Take your time finding the one that works best for you. Ponemon Institute tells us that in 2017 an average data breach cost $3.5 million, and there’s a 27% chance a U.S. company will experience a breach in the next 24 months. The cost will be between $1.1M and $3.8M per incident.

Your security is worth it. We’d be happy to talk with you when you’re ready. We’re the largest independent security integrator in the DC region, with a rapidly expanding presence in the mid-Atlantic area. For over 20 years, we’ve combined IT and physical security to keep your people, property, and data safe. See how we can help you secure your enterprise.

 

How Did Security Move Forward in 2017?

And How Can You Take Advantage of These Trends?

While 2017 wasn’t a watershed in the world of access control, intrusion detection and video surveillance, there were several noteworthy trends that drove the industry forward. The experts at Security Sales & Integration recently identified five:

 

  1. Artificial Intelligence Continued to Grow

As both AI quality and capacity increased in 2017, manufacturers relied on AI to control workflow for Big Data, a segment where human capabilities have reached their limit. AI’s ability to process information from various sources at exceedingly fast speeds makes it an essential security tool. FST Biometrics America Inc. of New York City innovated in this arena; the company equips turnstiles with high-resolution cameras that use facial biometrics to first recognize a person and then create a red or green spot on his or her face. Green spots are allowed entry, whereas red are not.

 

Takeaway:  Look for AI enabled security products in everything from video surveillance to access control for smarter streamlined management of various security silos.

 

  1. Platform Unification Increased Efficiencies

As security systems integrators looked to consolidate video surveillance, intrusion detection, access control, visitor management and bi-directional intercoms through one electronic system via the Cloud, this equated to fewer computers, software and service agreements as well as decreased IT costs.

 

By combining security alarms and intrusion detection devices under a VMS platform, only one set-up is required, and a video feed can now check and balance any alerts to confirm that they’re not false alarms.
Takeaway:  The future of security lies in unification; whenever possible, seek our synchronicities for your solution.

 

  1. Video Surveillance Became More Powerful

Unfortunately, many experts believe that the price reductions in IP-based cameras correlated directly to a quality reduction. Some companies, like Sony, dropped camera production to focus on AI-powered VMS’s that integrate with other security products.

On the plus side, video images are more compact than ever. ProActive CCTV from Farmington, NY compressed 32 channels into 8TB of data storage space, or three years of compressed data. This is a new milestone.

Takeaway:  Look for a VMS featuring high compression levels for greater storage at lower costs.

  1. Intrusion Alarms Got Integrated and Updated

Newer companies entered this sphere since older companies weren’t keeping pace with technology or client needs. The winners are access control manufacturers who added intrusion detection devices that report to their operating systems.

 

Intrusion alarms are becoming more and more compatible with the Internet of Things (IoT) and include cybersecure protections to deter would-be hackers.

 

Takeaway:  Companies integrating intrusion alarms with their other products offer a total solution that’s also more accessible through common mobile devices.

 

  1. Access Control Received a Value Added Upgrades

As access control products became more of a commodity through standardization and Cloud driven software, companies embracing value-added elements surged ahead. Many offer bi-direction communication standard, with a central access control system to update fobs, cards or other credentials that can be modified while in use.

 

Companies also favor the BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) option, and users can even select which device to use. Mobile keys are also a small but expanding solution.

 

Takeaway:  As the focus shifts to BYOD and identity management, access control will become a user driven platform.

 

IST can help you take advantage of all of these developments. We offer many AI-enabled products to make your security even smarter. We’ll help you consolidate different types of security services with VMS platforms. In fact, IST leads the way in implementing the latest developments in VMS technology in coordination with our clients and industry partners. Look through what IST can provide in VMS. Additionally, our intrusion alarms and access control systems easily integrate with your mobile devices for a streamlined security system that’s simpler than ever to control.

 

The drumbeat of increased integration, consolidation and a move towards mobile devices continues to improve security systems and make them more cost-effective and easier to manage. As we move into 2018, we look forward to these trends continuing.

 

Top Five Blog Posts of 2017

Click through our most popular posts from the year!

  1. Eliminate the Knowledge Gap http://istonline.wpengine.com/2017/09/eliminate-the-knowledge-gap/

 

  1. Do Certifications Make a Difference? http://istonline.wpengine.com/2017/10/do-certifications-make-a-difference/

 

  1. The 411 on Hosted and Managed http://istonline.wpengine.com/2017/06/cloud-security-solutions-the-411-on-hosted-vs-managed/

 

  1. Find the Right Security for your Business http://istonline.wpengine.com/2017/07/choosing-right-security-option-business/

 

  1. Meet SHIELD http://istonline.wpengine.com/2017/06/meet-s-h-i-e-l-d-safeguarding-cloud-security/

Choose a Security Integrator with a Great Home Base and Even Greater Range

Why Geography Matters—And When it Doesn’t

 

The DMV area has thrived on innovation since leading the technological revolution in the late 1990s. Internet providers like AOL and UUNet, and telecommunications giants MCI and Verizon spurred phenomenal job growth and technological advances here and throughout the country. In 2017, the federal government now plays a driving role in the push for technology and focuses on cybersecurity and healthcare (Source:  Forbes.com.) The quest for innovation remains as strong as ever.

 

That puts businesses in the metro area in an excellent position to participate in and reap the benefits of the most recent security innovations.

 

Headquartered in Herndon, Virginia, IST is at the center of the security world in many ways. However, IST goes beyond the metro area to serve other areas throughout the Mid-Atlantic region, including Southern Virginia, Delaware, West Virginia, Pennsylvania and New Jersey. We also maintain three fully staffed program offices at federal facilities in the Washington DC area to serve the federal government. Many of our competitors don’t have this range.

 

Choose a Security Integrator with a Great Home Base and Even Greater Range | Integrated Security Technologies

 

As a customer-centric company, IST has increased its locations to help its customers. “We have continued to expand geographically based on our customers’ needs,” IST President Jon Langhorst said. “Once we make that decision, it is so important, as a company, to completely commit to a region with an ‘all-in’ attitude. We then ramp up the staff and capabilities. The results have been rewarding as we have experienced sustained growth in those markets. Additionally, we have an even greater reach when teaming with like-minded companies across the nation, and we are always strategically evaluating new localities for growth to better serve our nationally positioned clients.”

 

When Geography Doesn’t Matter:  What Does This Mean For You?

Even if you’re not in our immediate area, we can work with you to create and execute a strong, effective security plan rooted in our proprietary holistic Full Lifecycle Approach. This unique method allows us to address your security throughout its lifecycle, including strategy, engineering, design, implementation and lifecycle support. We’re with you every step of the way.

 

IST also maintains many important certifications that set us above other security integrators. We have several distinctions that make working with us even easier. In the Virginia area, we are in the Division of Engineering and Buildings’ (DEB) Commonwealth of Virginia Pre-Qualified Contractors Pool list to streamline our work with government entities. We are ISO 9001:2015 certified, which provides requirements for quality management systems (QMS). This esteemed designation guarantees consistent quality and ongoing dedication to improvement and excellence.

 

IST is different from our competitors. Local security integrators do not carry the ISO certification. Many of our competitors are also focused on their local areas. We believe it’s important to earn these distinctions and to bring our expertise to places beyond our headquarters. Consider IST whether you’re in the DMV area or not. You can tap our expertise as a company steeped in security both geographically and operationally. We can come to you wherever you are. To contact us, click here.

The Importance of Security Integrators Overseeing Your Perimeter Security

Last week, New York City suffered the most devastating terrorist attack since 9/11—not from a highly coordinated and technologically advanced plan, but from a decidedly low-tech, under-the-radar vehicular assault. The increase in events like these cause businesses to rethink their perimeter and force them to secure their properties with formidable barriers that vet employees and visitors farther away from companies’ main entrances and assets.

 

While these enterprises look to trusted security integrators to install perimeter security, they should be aware that most security integrators outsource turnstile, vehicle barrier, gate and booth installations to third-party contractors. Companies subcontract often just to save costs, but the loss of control over the installation process can ultimately cause costly scheduling and quality issues. Additionally, it can compromise the client’s security posture.

 

IST does not outsource perimeter security installations. We have the in-house expertise to design, install, service, upgrade and maintain these blockades, thereby retaining control over the entire lifecycle process. From the first point of contact with the client, throughout installation and maintenance cycles, IST works directly with its clients. In this way, we ensure consistent quality throughout the process and avoid the finger-pointing that can occur when working with multiple vendors—as well as the security risks.

 

“We’re quality control freaks,” explained IST’s President, Jon Langhorst, PSP. “The only things we’ll subcontract out are major excavation, drainage and major runs of conduit.  And we only sub these tasks out to a small group of trusted contractors, one of which we’ve worked with for over 20 years. We handle everything else—the concept, design, engineering, wiring, set-up, programming and commissioning—so that we can ensure consistency and quality.”

 

By working with just a small stable of proven partners, IST maintains control over the entire process and provides the best outcomes for our clients.

 

Which Perimeter Security Is Right for You?

IST offers a variety of barrier options that feature different security levels and accommodate diverse needs. For instance, turnstiles can effectively monitor and allow pedestrian access to secure areas. Optical turnstiles, typically found in building lobbies, use infrared beams to alert security personnel about unauthorized entries. Full height turnstiles can be installed either outside or inside of a building for a visually imposing, structurally sound barrier to entry. Tripod, or “stadium style” turnstiles easily provide accurate traffic counts.

 

If your goal is to prevent vehicle access, then barriers, gates or booths built for Hostile Vehicle Mitigation (HVM) work well. Their presence alone is usually enough to stop an attempted wrongful entry, but these serious deterrents also provide anti-ram security if necessary. IST offers flexible HVM options to suit your needs based on your particular situation.

 

Reliable HVM crash-rated products range from road blockers to gates and spike barriers. Road blockers, also known a pop-up or wedge barriers, provide high security with impenetrable materials, and can be installed on any road surface; they’re designed to stop vehicles up to 15,000 pounds traveling up to 50 mph. Drop-arm barriers, sliding gates, security fences and bullet resistant guard booths can be integrated to provide a complete secure perimeter.

 

We also offer visually powerful options like spike barriers, which will harm tires and rims and can be tempered for varying levels of security risks. If you’re seeking aesthetically pleasing HVM options, traffic bollards work well and flexibly adjust for changing traffic needs. They can be raised or lowered and blend in well with the outside environment. They can also provide exceptional anti-ram protection when properly specified and installed.

 

Depending upon your objectives, we can design a perimeter security system that integrates into your access control card reader system and that keeps your employees and property safe from the unexpected attacks that are sadly becoming more prevalent today.

 

For more information on securing your property, visit us here.

 

What is an ISO Certification and Why Does it Matter?

You’ve likely heard of the ISO standards, but do you know the important details?

 

The International Standards Organization is a trusted third-party auditing organization using standards to help companies maintain consistent results and pursue constant improvement. This quality management system (QMS) designation is geared towards companies offering design, engineering and manufacturing services. While the ISO 9000 family has several documents or standards, the ISO 9001 is the only one requiring certification. The number 2015 refers to the most recent year of revision; previously it was 2008. (Source:  American Society for Quality)

 

IST achieved this highly regarded ISO 9001:2008 certification as a company, without restrictions, in 2004 after a full year of preparation. Previously it was known as ISO 9001: 2000. This ISO certification is difficult to obtain and sets IST among the ranks of esteemed companies like Ford®, Boeing and Lockheed Martin. In 2017, IST upgraded to ISO 9000:2015 because of the ISO organization’s revisions to the standards.

 

“Attaining this certification shows our dedication to tough engineering standards and makes us highly accountable to both our clients and employees,” said Jon Langhorst, PSP, President of IST. “The full lifecycle philosophy dovetails perfectly with our commitment to full lifecycle service, and raises our level of accountability every step along the way.”

 

Very few of IST’s competitors hold this distinction, and Langhorst noted that IST is the only security integrator in the D.C.-area with the ISO 9001:2015 certification.

 

Accountability Equals Accomplishment

Throughout each stage of our Full Life Cycle Approach—strategy, engineering and design, implementation and lifecycle support—IST must hit and document various quality control targets. This documentation is audited annually. IST undergoes regular audits featuring internal management reviews, and annual outside audits that monitor the warehouse, production facilities, the installation process and the engineering procedures to ensure accountability. The company must also be recertified every three years.

 

As an extension of its commitment to consistency and quality, IST also focuses on partnering with ISO registered manufacturers to ensure that this high standard is maintained throughout the product’s lifecycle as well. All products are tested in-house at IST before being offered to clients.

 

When acquired for clients, products are logged and stamped upon receipt and tracked throughout the lifecycle process.

 

“This proves to our clients that we’re dedicated to their long-term success and that we’re buying from the best,” Langhorst said.

The ISO 9001:2015 certification has generated real results, including shorter lead times, reliable and accurate delivery, overall efficiency and consistency across the company both internally and externally. In fact, IST has also reaped several employee benefits, such as improved company morale resulting from easily defined and achievable goals, along with an enhanced focus on these goals. As a certified company, IST has a competitive advantage and can provide better levels of service than its local, non-certified competitors. This translates to a better business relationship for all.

 

See how we can put our certification to work for you and help improve your processes and quality control. To see IST’s ISO 9001:2015 certification, click here or contact us to learn more.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Do IT Network Certifications Make a Difference?

In an age where far-reaching IT security breaches can occur regularly, new crops of IT companies are springing up to assure vulnerable enterprises that their security is indeed, secure.

 

These IT security companies’ services are increasingly in high demand. In 2016, more than 200,000 security positions were available in the U.S. Around 1.5 million positions are expected to be filled globally by 2019 (Source:  tom’sIT PRO).

 

With a glut of providers offering security services, how can CIOs, CTOs, CMOs and other decision-makers know which companies to trust with their critical data? The stakes are high. Just one breach can destroy valued customers’ trust and leave the company open to business-ending lawsuits, personal identity theft issues and countless other types of confidence and financial fallout.

 

Certifications Are One Answer

Many certifications that a company holds, both collectively and with individual employees, are simple but effective measures of an IT security company’s merit. Legitimate certifications can be difficult to achieve and require significant investments of time and money. With these investments, you can be assured that the security company maintains a strong dedication to process and quality control as well as overall excellence in high level IT security.

 

At IST, we hold a very large number of some of the most advanced certifications in our industry. We believe in partnering with proven, high-quality manufacturers, and we test their products in-house before committing to them. Our employees work hard to earn their certifications so we can offer our clients the most premium products and services, period.

 

“We want to prove to our customers that we are serious about bringing the industries and manufactures best practices to their security solution,” says Jon Langhorst, PSP, President of IST. “For all our products lines, including Access Control, Video Management, Door Hardware and Intrusion Detection, we are focused on getting as many members of the team trained as possible. We especially do this within the engineering group, where we try to maintain multiple certified individuals in each category, for each vendor. And, as a company, we become certified to the highest level that the manufacturers provide, in addition to the individual certifications that our employees obtain. This shows our dedication to applying best practices.”

 

Which Certifications Are Important?

IST focuses certifications for IP networks, including Cisco’s CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate) for Routing and Switching, CCNET (for installing, operating and troubleshooting a small enterprise branch network) and CSEIP (Certified System Engineer ICAM PACS).

“A lot of our competitors do not have these qualifications,” explains Langhorst. “These qualifications are tough to get because there are typically a lot of hoops to jump through to prove your suitability to receive the certification. But they are absolutely imperative in understanding and properly deploying secure and compliant network-based integrated systems.”

 

In addition to achieving maintaining the coveted ISO 9001:2015 Registration, without restrictions for the past 14 years, IST was the first systems integrator to receive the new FICAM Services SIN 246-60-5 by GSA. IST maintains four CSEIP staff to deploy these FIPS201-2 compliant PACS (Physical Access Control Systems) for Life Cycle Maintenance. Langhorst adds that “having these high levels of registrations and certifications prove to our clients – and to our team members – that IST is dedicated to the engineering process.”

 

The Small Business Administration also named IST a Small Business Enterprise, enabling government agencies and contractors to streamline our procurement process. While many competitors have government certifications, IST retains more trained and certified employees in this arena.

 

We continually strive to hold the highest certifications so we can provide you with the highest levels of service. To see a complete list of our company-wide certifications and other important qualifications, click here.

Why a one-stop shop is critical to securing your physical environment

Door Locking Solutions One-Stop Shop

When it comes to security doors or any other type of physical security, the general rule of thumb is that fewer cooks are better in the kitchen.

When you enlist the help of various companies to handle various aspects of your security, you are susceptible to greater security risks like human error, stymied communication and other opportunities for good practices to fall through the cracks.

 

As a one-stop security shop, IST addresses this concern for our clients. We understand the importance of keeping security tighter with fewer cooks and fewer moving parts. In fact, there are several important reasons why going with a one-stop shop for your doors and your overall security will strengthen your position.

 

Save Money, Time and Your Sanity:  Most importantly, using a one-stop shop will alleviate your stress levels and provide peace of mind. You’ll work with one point person, and you can hand over all security concerns to their team. This streamlined interaction saves tremendous amounts of time as well as effort and certainly puts you at ease. Another important consideration is cost savings. By bundling services, you’ll gain greater efficiencies and save significant money on security services.

 

Eliminate Finger Pointing:  One downfall of engaging with several security vendors is that it makes it easy for vendors to scapegoat if an issue arises. For instance, one vendor can easily blame another when a fire code requirement is not met or when components malfunction or break. With a one-stop shop, the responsibility lies completely with us. We are accountable for every issue, so we’re motivated to be proactive first of all—but also to accept responsibility and correct any issues.

 

Eradicate Inspection Delays:  With a one-stop shop, we do everything. From door security design—to setup—to maintenance and troubleshooting, it’s all included. We also handle inspections seamlessly as part of that process, so you won’t have to coordinate schedules among vendors. We’ll ensure that all inspections are done correctly and in a timely manner.

 

Troubleshoot Problems Before They Become Problems:  A great advantage of a one-stop shop is its ability to see your security in its entirety and foresee any issues on the horizon. When we have access to all information, and other vendors aren’t withholding data or failing to report it accurately, we can make the most informed decisions on how to proceed. With the complete picture, we’ll proactively find and troubleshoot issues before they become real problems.

 

While there are several reasons why it’s much easier, more efficient and just smarter use a one-stop shop for your security, another important consideration is the long-term. When you choose one security partner, your relationship becomes a true partnership in many ways. With all the pieces of your security puzzle, we can always act with your best interests in mind.

 

At IST, in addition to offering one-stop service, we’re also proud to provide you with a team leader that’s been certified by the Door Hardware Institute, a recognized industry-wide organization dedicated to promoting Standards and Best Practices. Look here to see how we can effectively help with your door hardware and locking objectives or request info here.