Pub. 14 2015-2016 Issue 3

N E W J E R S E Y C O A L I T I O N O F A U T O M O T I V E R E T A I L E R S I S S U E N O . 4 , 2 0 1 5 24 new jersey auto retailer I ntelligent video or remote interactive video are buzzwords that have been part of the security industry vernacular for decades. They embody technology that has a wide range of functionality. While preventing security threats and theft is a priority for any video surveillance system, the potential to increase business opportunities, improve operations and increase customer service can help dealerships get the most out of their investment. With more affordable system costs (coupled with advanced product features), the applications for auto dealerships to use their system’s empirical data becomes a compelling one. IT’S ALL ABOUT THE DATA Remote video surveillance provides theft protection in various ways to dealerships that have a unique set of challenges. Video data adds to the value a surveillance system can provide a dealership. Customer traffic flows, counts, and incident reports can all be used to create efficiencies to a dealer- ship’s operational needs. Below we will explore a fewof the ways your remote video surveillance solution can be more than just a cost to the business. OPERATIONS MANAGEMENT AND CUSTOMER SERVICE While some would argue there is a Big Brother mentality at play when a system is in use, video surveillance, can work to a dealership’s benefit. The software tech- nology is an ideal way for management to oversee its operations and ensure that its employees are following protocol. Are employees doing their job? Is the customer being waited on in a timely manner? Are employees spending too much time on breaks? For dealerships with large inven- tories or multiple locations, this can be especially helpful. The cameras can provide real-time awareness into the status of each branch without a manager having to physi- cally visit each site. Similarly, the video footage taken can provide valuable training insight by showing new employees real- world examples of what is—and isn’t—ideal behavior relative to customer interaction. In addition, the data collected can be viewed online and then leveraged to improve cus- tomer service. Capturing customer traffic at each monitored site, including areas visited and times that have more foot traf- fic than others, can impact a dealership’s ability to generate sales leads. All of these are advantages beyond the theft and loss Video Surveillance Helps DealershipswithDailyBusinessOperations BY RAY SCHENK BEYOND SECURITY: SECURITY  continued on page 26