In this episode we delve into the transformative journey of Smart Spaces, led by CEO and co-founder Dan Drogman. From its inception as a software consultancy in 2010, to its current status as a trailblazer in the PropTech industry – Smart Spaces has been at the forefront of integrating cutting-edge technologies to enhance modern office environments. Discover how Dan and his team have harnessed innovations like Apple's iBeacon and AI-driven security solutions to revolutionize access control, climate management, and visitor interactions, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Join us as we explore the challenges and breakthroughs in smart building integration over the past five years, and learn how companies have shifted their perspective from viewing smart technology as a risk to recognizing it as a crucial competitive advantage. Dan shares insights on the role of AI and open protocol systems in enhancing building security and the importance of collaboration with security consultants and stakeholders. And, listen in as Steve and Dan envision a future where frictionless access control and digital transformation drive energy efficiency and unparalleled customer satisfaction in smart building solutions.

About our guest:

Dan Drogman is a software development entrepreneur who first entered the market in 2004. He is a founding partner, owner and Managing Director at Smart Spaces; a London based PropTech, Software Development Consultancy ‘where design meets technology’ set up in 2010 and now employing 35+ .Net, C# web developers and UX/UI designers working across the office, retail, residential and industrial markets.

Source: https://www.smartspaces.app/about/

Connect with Dan on LinkedIn

Chapters:

(0:00:08) - Smart Building Solutions

Dan Drogman, CEO of Smart Spaces, introduces the journey of his company from a software consultancy to a leader in the prop tech industry. The chapter delves into how Smart Spaces utilizes IoT and Apple's iBeacon technology to enhance access control and climate management, emphasizing the role of smartphones and the pandemic in increasing demand for smart building features.

(0:08:46) - Navigating Smart Building Integration Challenges

This segment highlights the evolution of smart building integration over recent years, showcasing how companies have embraced open integration platforms to gain competitive advantages. It explores the transformation of traditional security tools into data-driven solutions, underscoring the challenges faced by firms resistant to adopting new technologies.

(0:11:58) - Optimizing Smart Building Integration Journey

The focus here is on the inefficiencies in traditional building systems and how Smart Spaces has streamlined operations by consolidating multiple sensors. The chapter discusses the use of machine vision for occupancy data, emphasizing ethical advising and the importance of collaboration with security managers and stakeholders.

(0:19:44) - Enhancing Smart Building Security With AI

This chapter explores the integration of open protocol systems and AI in smart building technology. It highlights the necessity of selecting adaptable vendors to future-proof buildings and discusses how AI aids in processing large...

Veteran security industry expert Jamie Donald from Axis Communications shares his wisdom on the fast-evolving landscape of security technology. With nearly three decades of industry experience, Jamie takes us through the journey from a fragmented market to a more unified, consolidated one. We delve into the strategic importance of open ecosystems and the necessity of technology partnerships, particularly in video management systems and analytics, to enhance both security measures and operational efficiency. Jamie also provides insight into the challenges and opportunities that come with market consolidation and why adopting an IT mindset is crucial to effectively navigate these changes.

While AI has often been overstated, Jamie and Steve discuss its potential for innovation when companies collaborate meaningfully. The discussion touches on the complexities faced by small developers in choosing between edge, server, or cloud solutions, and how collective investments can greatly enhance the value of technological solutions.

About our guest:

Working in the Global Sales Solutions team at Axis Communications, Jamie is responsible for managing and optimizing relationships with strategic alliance ecosystem partners, to deliver joint solutions for the enterprise business customers. Prior to joining Axis, Jamie worked in the security industry for 17 years, holding a range of sales and commercial roles. This included 2 years Business Development in Saudi Arabia.

Connect with Jamie on LinkedIn

Chapters:

The Future of Security Technology Partnerships (00:00)

Jamie and Steve discuss the industry's shift from fragmentation to consolidation and emphasizes the importance of open ecosystems and partnerships in video management and analytics for enhancing security and operational efficiency.

Exploring Technology Partnerships and Innovations (10:30)

This section highlights the potential of AI when integrated through technology partnerships, the challenges faced by small developers, and the role of collective investments in driving innovation in smart cities and buildings.

Navigating Technology Partnerships and Innovation (21:15)

Jamie and Steve explore the importance of identifying specific use cases for scalable solutions, address cybersecurity concerns with open systems and the implications of market consolidation on technology partnerships.

Value of Technology Partnerships for Security (32:45)

The episode concludes by emphasizing the benefits of collaborating with technology partners to drive innovation and efficiency, ultimately enhancing value for customers and operators of complex systems.

Resources:

More information on Axis’ Technology Integration Partner Program

Meet your host Steve Kenny: Steve has spent 14 years in the security sector undertaking various roles that have seen him take responsibility for key elements of mission critical, high profile projects across a number of different vertical markets. For the last several years, Steve has focused his attention on how technologies can best complement day to day operations and specifically address operational issues by supporting the A&E consultant community across Northern Europe. Steve is a committee member for ASIS International focusing on Education for the security sector and the UK...

In this episode we are joined by Corin Dennison, an expert with extensive experience in law enforcement and retail security. Together, we delve into the pressing challenges facing the retail industry, including the rise of retail-specific violence and the economic implications of crime. Despite widespread security measures, criminals remain undeterred, leading to tough decisions about store location viability and financial transparency. We explore innovative strategies to balance safety and sales, as well as the importance of accurate crime recording and the role of technology in building offender profiles.

The conversation extends to the digital realm, highlighting the surge of returns fraud in e-commerce, exacerbated by social media platforms. We discuss the necessity of robust data sharing and advanced technological defenses to counteract these threats. Additionally, the episode addresses the controversial use of facial recognition technology, weighing its potential benefits against privacy concerns.

About our guest:

At the helm of Insight Retail Risk Consultancy as Managing Partner, Corin Dennison’s focus is on delivering top-tier guidance, expertise and services to clients. Leveraging a distinguished career in corporate security and retail risk management, he specialises in crafting robust risk protection and mitigation models for retail brands / solution providers and implementing advanced technical solutions. The strategies developed under his direction have been instrumental in safeguarding assets and mitigating significant P&L losses for global companies.

Previously within risk leadership roles with brands such as Burberry & adidas, Corin cultivated a comprehensive security approach spanning six regions. His expertise in corporate investigations, IP protection, and consumer risk was pivotal in establishing global compliance frameworks. Within these organization, Corin’s efforts consistently optimized operations, bolstered brand integrity, and contributed to sustainable business growth through strategic risk management.

Connect with Corin on LinkedIn

Chapters:

Retail Challenges and Security Solutions (0:00:07): We delve into the increasing challenges of retail-specific violence and its global impact, with Corin Dennison providing insights on maintaining a balance between consumer, employee, and product safety amidst the core goal of selling goods. The discussion highlights the perceived indifference of criminals towards existing security measures and the financial strain on retailers as they face decisions about store location viability.

Retail Crime Prevention Strategies (0:09:50): The conversation explores the complexities of addressing retail crime, emphasizing the need for accurate crime recording and the impact of policing thresholds on reporting thefts. The chapter discusses strategies for balancing crime prevention with economic realities and the importance of better solutions to deter crime and protect retail assets.

E-Commerce Returns Fraud and Solutions (0:22:26): We examine the rise of returns fraud in e-commerce, driven by organized crime exploiting online platforms and social media. The need for robust data sharing and technology-enhanced defenses is emphasized, alongside discussions on using facial recognition technology while balancing privacy concerns.

Retail Risk Mitigation Strategies (0:28:48): We address the use of facial recognition technology in retail, highlighting the need for proportionality,