Today, security has become an indispensable element for institutions and businesses. Especially in factories, residential complexes, hotels, shopping malls, warehouses, and public institutions with large areas, it is critically important that security staff carry out their duties in a regular manner. At this point, guard tour systems are among the most effective solutions to monitor and report the patrol activities of security guards. However, since there are many products on the market with different models and features, choosing the right system is not always easy.
So, what should you consider when choosing a guard tour system? Here are the most important points to keep in mind when making your decision:
- Ease of Use
Considering that security personnel may have different levels of training, the chosen guard tour system should be easy to understand and practical. Complex devices that are difficult to use cause problems in daily operations and reduce efficiency. Devices with a simple interface and one-button operation should be preferred.
- Durability and Quality
Guard control devices or wands are usually used outdoors, under various weather conditions, and sometimes in challenging environments. Therefore, devices should be:
- Water and dust resistant,
- Shock-resistant and durable,
- Capable of long-term use without performance loss.
Choosing a durable device will reduce maintenance and replacement costs in the long run.
- Data Security and Accuracy
The main purpose of a guard tour system is to verify whether the staff is actually performing their patrols. For this reason, the data collected by the device must be accurate and reliable. Systems that prevent falsification, record with a time stamp, and do not allow manipulation of reports when transferred to a computer should be preferred.
- Reporting Features
Modern guard tour systems do more than just collect data; they also provide detailed reports for managers. With a good reporting system, you can easily track:
- Which security guard passed which checkpoint and at what time,
- Whether patrols were conducted regularly,
- If there were any missed or skipped points.
Software that allows reports in various formats such as PDF or Excel greatly facilitates the work of institutions.
- Technology Options
There are different types of guard tour systems available on the market. Some of them are:
- Magnetic guard wands: Provide simple use but are limited in data security.
- RFID card-based systems: Monitoring is carried out using RFID tags placed on checkpoints.
- Online guard tour systems: Data is instantly transferred to the central computer while the patrol is ongoing.
- Mobile app-based solutions: Tracking is performed via smartphone using QR code, NFC, or GPS support.
It is important to choose the technology most suitable for your organization’s needs. For example, GPS-based solutions may be more appropriate for a factory with a large open area, while RFID systems may be more efficient for building or site security.
- Battery Life
It is critical that guard tour devices can be used for long periods without recharging, especially for institutions providing 24/7 security services. Devices with short battery life can cause interruptions during patrols and data loss. Therefore, devices with long battery life should be preferred.
- Technical Support and After-Sales Service
Not only the device itself but also the technical support provided by the supplier is very important. Guard tour systems are designed for long-term use, and from time to time they may require maintenance, software updates, or technical service. Working with reliable companies that provide 24/7 support and quick spare part supply is always advantageous.
- Price / Performance Balance
Guard control systems are available in different price ranges. Choosing the cheapest option may seem beneficial in the short term, but in the long run it can result in higher costs due to breakdowns, data loss, or reporting problems. The best approach is to analyze the price/performance balance and choose a solution that is both budget-friendly and reliable.
- Suitability for the Business
Every business has different security requirements. For example, security patrols in a hotel are not the same as those in a mining site. Therefore, when selecting a system, factors such as:
- The size of the area,
- The number of personnel,
- The density of checkpoints,
- The reporting requirements
should be considered.
- Legal Compliance and Staff Monitoring
Guard control systems are not only used for internal monitoring but can also serve as evidence for official authorities in case of workplace accidents or security violations. For this reason, the reports must be reliable and legally valid. Moreover, these systems ensure that security staff carry out their duties properly, thus improving work discipline.
Conclusion
Guard tour systems are the most effective way to monitor whether security staff are performing their patrols regularly. However, choosing the right system is critical for the safety and sustainability of your business. Paying attention to factors such as ease of use, durability, data security, reporting features, battery life, and technical support will help you make a decision that improves your security quality and contributes to the efficiency of your organization in the long term.
Remember, there is no room for error in security. With a properly chosen guard tour system, you can monitor the performance of your security staff and minimize potential risks.
