At this point in history, we're all relatively familiar with apartment intercom systems. After all, Kellogg originally patented the very first Intercommunicating Telephone System well over a century ago. But nonetheless, when attempting to decide on an intercom system for your building, you may find yourself quibbling over your choices.
Perhaps one of the biggest choices you'll have to make when deciding between apartment intercom systems is whether or not to add on video. While you may think that you already know the answer to this question, there are more issues to consider than may initially meet the eye.
It Could Create More Work
In theory, a video intercom system will make life easier for the security staff monitoring the intercom system. Very rarely are video systems set up so that tenants can take advantage of them; therefore, it's usually security staff members that are able to check the video system. While this allows them to verify individuals' identities before allowing them into the building, this can be easier said than done.
In most cases, it will be a while before staff members are able to recognize tenants by memory; if they ever do. Therefore, there must be a system in place that allows them to double-check the video footage against a reference photo of the tenant, perhaps from their photo ID. It may end up taking the staff members longer to grant front door access and take away from the general convenience of apartment intercom systems.
They Allow for Greater Safety
Generally speaking, apartment intercom systems are used to make tenants' lives easier and to ensure greater security. Video door intercom systems can increase security by allowing those monitoring the video feed to ascertain whether or not someone is in danger, or perhaps is dangerous themselves. An individual wielding a weapon, for example, wouldn't be let in.
They Can Add Value
A lot of potential tenants like the idea that intercom systems are enhanced by video. Not only are they often more interested in buildings that offer intercom systems with video; they may be willing to pay more for it. This ultimately increases the overall value of the building.
There is much to consider when choosing an intercom system for your building. But in some cases, adding video capabilities to your system may be worth it in the long term.