Visual Business Intelligence: The Last Frontier For Video?

October 2013 Integrated Solutions For Retailers

IP video can improve operations at a single store or across the entire retail chain.

By Mark Collett, general manager, Sony Electronics’ Security Systems Division

Retailers often install IP cameras but then fail to harness the video for purposes beyond security and loss prevention. Many simply do not realize IP-based video is data that can be gathered, stored, and analyzed just like any other electronic information.

IP video can provide the visual insight and context behind other data from point of sale systems (POS), time and attendance systems, and even smart shelf sensors. Today, software solutions from business intelligence companies aggregate this information in a number of meaningful ways. The software links IP video to other retail systems, and, suddenly, executives can get actionable insights into store operations and customers’ shopping behaviors.