Recommendations to Minimize System Cost

 While maintaining maximum exit points from the building (using panic hardware on doors), lock down all doors but those selected for entry into the building. This allows you to direct all incoming traffic to one or two doors for each building, where you can install cameras to observe those who enter. This provides a vital deterrent for unauthorized entry during building hours, maximizing the effectiveness of the video system.

A single camera can sometimes be placed within line of sight of more than one door or window, as opposed to a camera for each entrance and window.

 If you have existing security or surveillance staff, use of a PTZ camera can allow staff to move and magnify for a clearer, close-up view of a chosen area. This allows you to reduce the number of safety staff members required to cover the campus site.

Specify the best DVR for the number of cameras the system is likely to have (either now or in the future) to eliminate duplicate equipment when unnecessary. It is best to be thoughtful about grouping cameras to a single DVR and naming cameras as this makes the system easier to use. If possible, try to use DVRs that have as many or more camera inputs as the number of cameras watching the protected area.