Understanding the specialized requirements for PSIM implementation
As a software-based solution requiring the integration of other hardware and software systems, and the customization of policies, rules, and user practices, the full PSIM solution requires a non-traditional, multi-disciplined consulting, engineering, and installation approach.
PSIM deployment tasks typically include:
- Analyzing the existing system’s environment to identify integration requirements.
- Evaluating security operations and security systems use.
- Consulting with users to identify security policies, procedures, and strategic plans.
- Developing the functional software performance requirements.
- Custom engineering of application programming interface (API) software for subsystem connectivity.
- Software and system environment testing and test plan development.
- Identifying and designing network communication enhancements.
- Installing and modifying security systems and computing hardware and software.
- Customizing software application rules and workflow programming.
- Developing and administering customized user training programs.
The varied skill sets, knowledge, and experience required to deliver all of the elements of a PSIM project have challenged security integrators to expand and update their usual methodologies and resources. Security integrators are the system installers and service providers whose project scope of work typically includes the integration to other building and enterprise systems. Security integrators are typically contracted under a general contractor or directly to the owner. Technicians typically install PSIM solutions with a laptop in their hands, rather than a tool belt on their waists.
The majority of security integrator organizations do not maintain the full array of multi-disciplined, in-house staff required to deliver PSIM projects. Instead, most integrators must rely on many subcontractors in various specializations and heavily depend on their PSIM software vendor partner to complete the solution.
Qualified security integrators need to demonstrate a thorough understanding of PSIM solutions and the benefits provided to end-users. They should keep dedicated personnel who have received training and certification with the products. Additionally, security integrator team members should be able to demonstrate past successful PSIM project experience and have backgrounds of varying disciplines to include:
- security management consulting;
- security systems engineering;
- network design and engineering;
- software development;
- database integration; and
- project management.
Finally, qualified security integrators should also be able to demonstrate their ability for ongoing technical support of the PSIM solution after initial deployment.
A strong deployment team will help to ensure a firsttime, successful PSIM solution and the ongoing technical support needed to maintain, customize, and grow the solution with the end-user’s organizational needs. A typical PSIM deployment team includes:
- technical project manager–overall project manager with technology specialization;
- solution architect–consults with owner and defines the overall technical solution;
- solution engineer–builds the software configuration and programming scheme;
- IT/network specialist–evaluates and designs IT/network enhancements needed;
- security system engineer–plans and designs improvements needed to security subsystems;
- application specialists–performs the system programming and configuration activities;
- software development engineer–develops integrations and interfaces with subsystems;
- software test and evaluation engineer–develops and performs testing of overall solution;
- trainer–develops and provides training to owner/user personnel; and
- technical support specialist–defines and builds customized solution support program.
Key elements of a specification for a PSIM solution
To adequately convey the full scope of work for a PSIM project and to properly define all of the elements necessary to receive accurate bid/proposal pricing, key elements of information must be included in the PSIM specification and request for proposal (RFP) documents.
Detailed description
A detailed description of the project scope of work should include not only the PSIM software design and deployment requirements, but also a definition of work required to prepare the existing subsystems for incorporation into the PSIM environment. These include upgrading existing systems, conversion to TCP/IP communication protocols, and establishing network connectivity to subsystem components.
Building and floor plan
Detailed building and floor plan information should also be included. The quantity of maps and floor plans to be incorporated into the PSIM software are calculated in the pricing of the software and professional services required.
Existing business processes
An overview of the existing business processes within the owner’s environment, including security alarm and emergency response plans should be included. The extent to which security response plans must be developed and updated affects the pricing of the professional services required.
