Some providers of video surveillance systems, access control systems, intrusion detection systems and systems integration services offer an all-in-one service, including all system components and the service contract. These are called “proprietary systems.”
These systems can look very attractive by providing one stop shopping. Additionally, the initial purchase price can appear to be very cost effective.
Proprietary systems do have a major flaw: once purchased, the client loses the advantage of competition regarding maintenance contracts, along with the cost of future or replacement equipment. If, for example, the maintenance service is bad, the client may be stuck with it.
Also, their components will usually be incompatible with products made by other manufacturers.
The alternative to proprietary systems is called “open architecture.” These systems allow substitution of compatible products from different vendors. If a maintenance provider turns out to be sub-standard, they can be easily replaced.
