COMMERCIAL VIDEO INTERCOM SYSTEMS FOR YOUR BUSINESS: A COMPLETE GUIDE

Nowadays, small and medium-sized businesses face a variety of security concerns. It's vital for commercial property owners to protect their investments, whether it's their physical space, their employees, or their products.

A video intercom system for business allows you to regularly audit security and monitor entrances and exits while lowering the risk of vandalism and other criminal activities. Our team at Forbel can help you understand the ins and outs of commercial intercom systems so you understand which one is best for you. Learn the benefits of video intercom systems for your business here!

WHAT IS A COMMERCIAL VIDEO INTERCOM SYSTEM?

In today's world, no business or commercial space should be without an intercom system. But what is it, exactly? It's an entry system designed for commercial buildings that transmits video and audio, allowing tenants and visitors to communicate via video call. Visitors can also open doors remotely with commercial intercom systems that have a door release.

Depending on the type of commercial video intercom, you'll either have a one-way or a two-way system. Video intercoms with one-way video allow tenants to see visitors during video calls, but visitors cannot see tenants. With a two-way video intercom system for business, tenants and visitors can see each other.

A commercial video intercom system, like other types of intercom systems, gives you an extra layer of security that ensures your business is always protected.

BENEFITS OF COMMERCIAL VIDEO INTERCOM SYSTEMS

Commercial intercom systems are in high demand due to their performance, reliability, and functionality. They offer the following benefits:

1. SECURITY

Why are commercial video intercoms a priority for office security? Well, they provide a visual way to verify identity before granting access. This is especially important in multi-tenant buildings where security and front desk staff must deal with large numbers of regular and occasional visitors.

With commercial intercoms, users can identify visitors and, if necessary, ask for additional information before granting access. A commercial video intercom integrated with a visitor management system allows security teams to track visitors when they are on the premises and maintain a record of all visitors for compliance or analysis.

2. SAFETY

Any business can benefit from a video intercom. A commercial business intercom system can include video communications as well as intercom phone systems. This reduces staffing needs and increases safety as security staff doesn't have to physically open doors.

It's both convenient and secure to have a digital phone system with intercom functionality as security is a key feature of any building. With a rise in delivery and variable schedules, having the ability to control access remotely is an important part of implementing safety management.

3. LOWER THE RISK OF CRIME

Intercom systems, especially those with video capabilities, are a psychological deterrent. Their presence immediately warns criminals of the risk of revealing their identities. Therefore, seeing these systems outside a building may deter unauthorized entry.

Then there are annoying or bothersome people, such as hawkers, who you probably don't want to see or talk to. In this case, a commercial intercom system prevents you from letting them into your property by “accident.”

4. COMMUNICATION

The workplace needs to accommodate visitors or deliveries as smoothly as possible. Having a wireless video intercom system for business in your building is a convenient solution.

Unlike traditional systems where users can only handle access requests at their desks, a commercial door intercom system linked to their smartphones allows employees to check in visitors and unlock the door from anywhere.

This means it's still possible for users to handle requests remotely if they're away from the office or attending meetings.

5. ENHANCED VISITOR EXPERIENCE

Commercial video intercoms offer many ways for businesses to give visitors convenient access. Users can press the intercom to initiate a request, and an AI-based system will route them to the correct user. This creates a great first impression and enhances the overall visitor experience.

Other commercial video intercom systems allow visitors to access a facility using QR codes without contacting anyone. Plus, they eliminate the need to touch a commercial video intercom doorbell, allowing visitors to unlock the door by scanning their code instead.

6. AFTER-HOURS ASSISTANCE

Your business may not be accessible at all times. If an employee isn't available, an advanced intercom system uses artificial intelligence (AI) technology to route visitors' requests to another user profile, such as reception, another employee in that department, or even a voicemail box.

It's possible for AI call routing systems to synchronize with employee calendar apps, access permissions, or door schedules to ensure they're contacted at the right time.

WHAT DOES A VIDEO INTERCOM SYSTEM FOR COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS CONSIST OF?

A video intercom system provides security and facilitates communication. The parts of an intercom system include:

HARDWARE

THE BASE STATION

This is the central component of an intercom system and it's also referred to as a master station. A base station connects all other intercom parts such as desk stations or wall mounts.

INTERCOM SUBSTATION(S)

Intercom substations allow tenants to communicate with visitors outside the building. A one-way intercom system requires a camera at the base station and a monitor at every substation, while a two-way intercom system requires both a camera and monitor at all stations.

WIRING

Commercial intercoms with cameras fall into two broad categories: wired and wireless.

WIRED

Commercial video intercom systems offer both wired and wireless options. Wired intercoms connect components like cameras, call stations, and control panels via cables, providing reliable connectivity but limiting installation flexibility.

WIRELESS

A wireless intercom system uses Wi-Fi or radio frequency to link components, enabling freer placement but can be affected by interference issues. For most applications like offices or housing, wireless is more convenient as it minimizes cabling needs. However, for high-security areas like industrial sites, a wired system may be preferred because it is the most dependable.

The choice between wired and wireless video intercom equipment depends on the level of connectivity and flexibility required as well as the environment where the system is installed. Both offer different benefits, so many intercom solutions incorporate a combination of wired and wireless elements.

SOFTWARE

Most video intercom systems are managed using dedicated software. Intercom software allows administrators to program call numbers and access schedules, lock/unlock doors, monitor camera feeds, generate activity reports, and control other system settings remotely using a PC or mobile device.  Customizable intercom software provides an interface to configure system access and security features to match your organization's needs. For some solutions, software integrations are also available to tie the intercom system into other security platforms for facilities management.

HOW DOES A COMMERCIAL VIDEO INTERCOM SYSTEM WORK?

Security is at the forefront of every business owner and commercial establishment thanks to the progress of technology which allows two-way communications via a video intercom system.

Wall-mounted camera intercom systems are usually placed at entry points, such as doors or gates, and communicate with their substations on the inside to announce their arrival.

An intercom equipped with cameras and monitors allows visitors and hosts to communicate through live feeds when prompted by a doorbell.

Nowadays, smart doorbells and commercial video intercom systems can be easily connected to mobile devices, making them convenient substations accessible from anywhere.

Using commercial video intercoms with smartphones and other mobile devices is particularly effective since it provides both flexibility and security.

Hosts can lock and unlock doors from any location and video intercom systems for businesses are highly effective because they're user-friendly.

THE COST OF A VIDEO INTERCOM SYSTEM FOR BUSINESS

How much do business intercom systems cost? The best commercial intercom systems cost anywhere from $1,000 to $7,000, with installation fees varying based on what kind of system your business requires.

Price fluctuations depend on the location of the base station and whether the system is wired or wireless. Keep in mind that the fee doesn't include monthly fees for operating the intercoms.

WHY INTERCOM SYSTEMS ARE ESSENTIAL FOR YOUR BUSINESS

Whether you opt for wireless intercom systems or wired intercom systems, it's essential for commercial office buildings and other businesses. An intercom system provides essential security, communication, and convenience capabilities for any business. Intercoms enable controlling access, monitoring facilities, directing visitors, and keeping staff connected across locations. For modern businesses looking to enhance safety, efficiency, and customer service, an intercom solution is a key investment.

1. CONTACTLESS ACCESS

Contactless systems for entry and sign-in at businesses are becoming increasingly popular, especially in the post-COVID world. Intercom systems that enable contactless sign-in and access control can help businesses ensure health safety while improving convenience. With contactless intercom systems, employees and visitors can sign in and enter the premises without touching any surfaces. They can sign in via a mobile app by scanning a QR code or entering a code on the intercom keypad.

The intercom system will then unlock the door via an electronic lock to grant access. This touchless process reduces the risk of virus transmission via high-touch areas like sign-in sheets, keyboards, or door handles. At the same time, it streamlines the entry process for all entering the business space. Contactless intercom systems offer an effective solution for safe, hygienic, and convenient access management.

2. INTEGRATED ACCESS CONTROL

Intercom systems with integrated access control provide sophisticated entry management for businesses. They combine intercom functionality with electronic access control based on credentials like keycards, codes, or biometrics. This allows for secure, customized access permissions for employees and visitors. Built-in access control allows businesses to restrict access to specific entry points or areas of a building based on a person's role or clearance level.

They can also implement more rigid access rules during after-hours. Intercoms with access control have anti-passback features to prevent unauthorized access via tailgating. They have audit trails that log all access events for reporting. Built-in access control streamlines security management, reduces risks from unauthorized access, and gives businesses more control over access to their space based on customized policies. It offers an integrated intercom and remote access management solution with advanced functionality.

3. VISITOR MANAGEMENT

Intercom systems with visitor management capabilities are an efficient way for businesses to monitor and control visitor access. With an intercom visitor management system, businesses can require all visitors to sign in remotely before entering the property. Visitors can sign in using a mobile app or web portal by entering details like their name, phone number, the person they're visiting, and the purpose of their visit. The intercom system keeps a digital log of all visitor check-ins and notifies the appropriate employees that their visitor has arrived.

Employees can then grant access to the visitor remotely via the intercom system. Businesses can pre-register visitors, keep a log of all guest entries for contact tracing, and control visitor access to only authorized areas. An intercom visitor management solution helps boost security, accountability, and convenience for businesses receiving high volumes of visitors. This results in a streamlined and structured process for managing guest entries and access.

4. PACKAGE MANAGEMENT SOLUTION

Intercom systems equipped with package management capabilities provide a secure package delivery and retrieval solution for businesses. With an intercom delivery management system, businesses can implement contactless package drop-off, delivery, and pickup. Couriers can check in remotely when dropping off or picking up packages and be granted access via the intercom system to the package area. Employees can also retrieve delivered packages contactless using an intercom with a mobile app.

Intercom systems keep detailed logs of all package activity and control courier access to only the designated package zone. An intercom package management solution enables businesses to streamline package operations, improve security by limiting package access to authorized parties, and facilitate touchless package transactions to reduce health risks. This is an effective way to monitor and manage packages at offices or residential buildings.

5. MOBILE APP FEATURE

The best commercial intercom systems have mobile apps that allow for contactless convenience and management. Employees can use apps to sign in/out, control access, and view reports. Visitors and delivery persons can request access via apps. These apps simplify tasks that normally require intercom keypads while enhancing accessibility, reducing contact, and streamlining management. Businesses benefit from increased flexibility, health safety, and connectivity.

6. PROPERTY TECHNOLOGIES INTEGRATIONS (PROPTECH)

Intercom systems that integrate with other property technologies (known as "prop-tech") provide more robust building management solutions for businesses. For example, intercoms can integrate with electronic access control, video surveillance systems, building management systems, cloud software, and more. Integrations with access control and surveillance improve a building's security by enabling features like video verification of access requests or triggering a camera to monitor an area where a door was accessed. In addition, integrations with building systems allow intercoms to control HVAC, lighting, elevators, and other equipment.

Cloud software integrations allow for remote intercom control and help keep records and generate reports. By integrating intercoms with complementary prop-tech systems, businesses can achieve more seamless and automated building operations and get peace of mind along the way. Integrations provide a single interface to monitor and control multiple systems. They increase connectivity and leverage technologies that provide overlapping functionality. Intercom integrations with prop-tech solutions maximize a building's security, efficiency, and manageability.

DOES YOUR BUSINESS NEED A WIRELESS VIDEO INTERCOM WITH A DOOR RELEASE?

What about door releases? A commercial video intercom system with a door release allows anyone inside the building to see who's at the gate or door and open the door/gate remotely. In work situations, you don't always have the time to open doors manually, which is why a door release is ideal.

In high-trafficked commercial properties like offices, where people come and go continuously, all employees need remote access capabilities. This means your building will be safer, and your employees will be more productive. As a bonus, door-release intercom options are available for wired and wireless systems.

HOW DOES A WIRELESS VIDEO INTERCOM SYSTEM WITH DOOR RELEASE WORK?

Door-release intercom systems are divided into two categories: electronic locks and magnetic locks. The difference is that magnetic locks require power to lock doors, while electric locks require power to unlock doors.

The distinction comes down to the amount of energy they consume, but overall, they operate almost identically:

1. A guest arrives at your business's building.
2. They use hardware at the base station to contact the inside of the building.
3. An insider at the substation is alerted to the visitor.
4. Upon answering the call, the insider will decide whether to grant access to the visitor.

HOW MUCH DOES A WIRELESS VIDEO INTERCOM COST?

There are many factors in play that contribute to the cost of a video intercom system with door-release functionality.

A wired intercom with a camera will be much pricier than a wireless system since wires need to be run through the walls. The cost also depends on the installation team and how fast they get the job done.

Lastly, there are software fees to consider that enable remote property management, updates, etc. On average, the total cost of a commercial video intercom system ranges between $1,500 to $8,000.

THE BEST COMMERCIAL AND BUSINESS VIDEO INTERCOMS

It can be difficult to find a video entry system that fits seamlessly into your building since there are so many models to choose from. Below are the five most popular brands of intercom systems for commercial buildings.

AIPHONE IXG SERIES

Designed for multi-tenant security applications, the Aiphone IXG Series is a complete network-based communication solution. Its modular system design makes it easy to add as many door stations, emergency stations, master stations, and substations as you need.

By combining common security platforms with the IXG Series, your system can act like an enterprise-level Security Operations Center (SOC). For instance, multiple buildings can be closely monitored by one guard which can reduce potential labor costs for additional security personnel.

SWIFTLANE BUSINESS VIDEO INTERCOM SYSTEMS

A Swiftlane video intercom system for business provides two-way audio and video intercom calling for secure visitor and guest management. It has cloud-based end-to-end smart technology that makes building access possible via face recognition, mobile access, video intercom, visitor PINs, key cards, and voice recognition.

Swiftlane technology lets security personnel answer calls from anywhere. They're received as normal phone calls without having to monitor app push notifications. This means that business owners using Swiftlane intercoms can reduce their operational burden, accelerate lease processes, and provide reliable remote management capabilities.

2N COMMERCIAL VIDEO INTERCOM SYSTEMS

2N video intercom systems offer maximum comfort and safety. 2N IP intercoms and 2N answering units also provide two-way communication with visitors. Audio quality can be automatically adjusted to ensure you hear HD-quality sound even in noisy surroundings.

With 2N's IP video intercom system, you can receive pictures of your visitor's face directly in your e-mail. Plus, the 2N® Indoor Touch multifunctional communicator makes it easy for you to allow your visitors to use your phone, tablet, or desktop computer.

BUTTERFLYMX

Regardless of the type of business property, ButterflyMX intercom systems make property access simple. ButterflyMX provides security and convenience for owners, managers, and tenants of commercial buildings.

Its commercial video entry system allows you to remotely grant guest access and open and manage doors via your smartphone. Retrofits and installations of ButterflyMX are easy since there's no need for wiring or hardware.

ButterflyMX seamlessly integrates with leading property management systems, access control systems, keyless locks, and other protection solutions.

DOORBIRD INTERCOM SYSTEMS

DoorBird makes innovative IP video intercoms that provide apartments, housing communities, and businesses with an easy way to manage access control and security. DoorBird offers an IP-based solution that replaces traditional analog audio or video intercom systems.

Their intercoms feature built-in wide-angle HD cameras, motion sensors, touchscreen displays, and weather-resistant housings. DoorBird intercoms come integrated with access control systems so residents or staff can conveniently grant remote entry to visitors using their smartphone, tablet, or desktop.

DoorBird intercoms aim to make access control and security more connected, controllable, and convenient for residential or commercial spaces.

COMMERCIAL VIDEO INTERCOM SOLUTIONS

For robust security and seamless communication, commercial spaces require modern commercial intercoms. These solutions deliver HD video, multi-site integration, touchless access, and scalability to meet the needs of any business.

OFFICE SECURITY AND COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS

Commercial video intercom systems are ideal for office communication and security. They allow receptionists or security personnel to visually verify visitors before granting access. Video intercoms with multiple call buttons or touchscreen displays can serve large office buildings by directing visitors or employees to the right call station.

INDUSTRIAL AND MANUFACTURING INTERCOMS

Video intercom systems are ideal for industrial sites and manufacturing facilities. They enable gatehouse or security personnel to visually verify incoming vehicles, suppliers, and employees before allowing access. Industrial security solutions integrate with access control systems to grant or deny access remotely for verified individuals. They have wide-angle cameras that provide visibility across entryways and checkpoints, enhancing security through video monitoring and recording. For vehicle access, video intercoms allow gatehouses to monitor traffic flow and activate barrier gates only when approved vehicles are detected. In manufacturing, they facilitate monitoring restricted areas and emergency alerts.

WAREHOUSE INTERCOM SYSTEMS

Warehouse security systems are ideal for warehouse communication and security. They help staff to visually verify and identify incoming delivery vehicles, suppliers, and employees before opening doors. They have wide-angle cameras to monitor loading docks and entryways so staff can overlook warehouse access points. Video intercoms integrated with electronic access control grant or deny access remotely once individuals are identified. They improve security by flagging unauthorized access attempts or monitoring restricted areas on your property.

VIDEO INTERCOMS FOR MULTIFAMILY COMPLEXES

Video intercom systems meet the security and access needs of apartments and multifamily housing. They allow staff or tenants to visually identify visitors before granting access to the building. Their wide-angle cameras monitor building entrances so visitors can be screened remotely. Multifamily security systems integrated with electronic locks mean staff or tenants can unlock doors for approved visitors.

GET YOUR COMMERCIAL VIDEO INTERCOM SYSTEM INSTALLED BY FORBEL

Forbel Alarms is a Chicago intercom system installer and leading security solutions provider. We pride ourselves on partnering with the best brands in the industry and we can help you find the best commercial intercom system for your business. Trust our security system design consultants to help you integrate various surveillance components into a comprehensive business security system.

Keep your business safe and secure with a professional security expert. Contact us today!