With the increasing prevalence of theft, diversion, fraud, and other criminal activities, it's no surprise that cannabis businesses are turning to advanced security technology to protect their property. However, in the case of cannabis security technology, the "more is better" approach can often lead to unnecessary complex, expensive and ineffective systems.
In an ever-evolving industry like cannabis, security technology plays a crucial role in protecting valuable assets, ensuring compliance, and maintaining the safety of employees and customers. However, the misconception that "more is always better" when it comes to security technology can lead to inefficiencies, unnecessary costs and even hinder operational effectiveness. Striking the right balance ensures that your security technology supports your operations effectively while safeguarding your valuable assets and maintaining compliance in this rapidly growing industry.
Quality Over Quantity
Implementing and maintaining high-tech security systems with a multitude of advanced devices can be expensive. Investing in too much security equipment may strain an operator's budget, especially if they allocate resources away from other critical areas like inventory, marketing, or customer service. Excessive spending on security might not provide proportional returns on investment, so striking a balance between security and financial sustainability is vital.
When it comes to security technology, quality should always be prioritized over quantity. Investing in myriad security gadgets and systems without considering their effectiveness and compatibility can be counterproductive, so it is crucial to assess the actual needs of your cannabis business and implement a tailored security solution that addresses those specific requirements. By focusing on quality technology that aligns with your objectives, you can ensure a more streamlined and efficient security infrastructure.
Though some integrators and product vendors may offer to design the security floor plan for free, these designs often go beyond what is necessary to adequately secure the property and fail to consider the operator's budget. While the intention may be to provide comprehensive security, a build-out based on these designs can lead to excessive costs that might not align with the financial realities of the cannabis business. It is crucial for cannabis operators to consult with an expert who can carefully assess and tailor the security measures to their specific needs and financial constraints, ensuring a balance between effective security and budgetary considerations.
Compliance: Recommended vs Required
The cannabis industry is highly regulated, with strict compliance requirements varying by jurisdiction. For this reason, implementing excessive security technology without a clear understanding of the specific regulations often leads to unnecessary expenses as operators attempt to bring their properties up to code post-build out. In addition to the construction costs, operators face hefty change order fees any time the property, or its security technology, is substantially altered.
While a surplus of security devices might make operators believe they are in full compliance, it is important to recognize that quantity does not guarantee adherence to regulations and codes. Device-heavy floor plans often overlook crucial considerations such as cannabis business regulations and local municipal laws. Merely filling the premises with numerous security devices does not automatically ensure compliance or comprehensive security. It is essential for cannabis operators to conduct thorough research and consult with experts who have in-depth knowledge of the specific regulations and codes governing their industry. Taking a holistic approach that integrates both the appropriate quantity of security devices and adherence to legal requirements will result in a truly compliant and secure build-out.
False Sense of Security
Relying solely on technology can lead to a false sense of security. Excessive security equipment might make cannabis businesses overlook potential vulnerabilities or threats that require human observation, intuition, or intervention. Effective security systems should strike a balance between technological solutions and human oversight. Implementing SOPs and training employees to be vigilant and proactive can complement the role of security equipment and help identify potential risks that technology may miss.
Introducing numerous complex security technologies without proper staff training and system familiarity can also create confusion and decrease the overall effectiveness of your security measures. It is essential to invest in thorough training programs for your employees, ensuring they are knowledgeable about the security technologies in use. By empowering your staff to understand and operate the systems effectively, you can maximize the benefits of your security investments while reducing the risk of human error.
Why Use a Cannabis-Specific Consult?
Without an expert guiding you through the security design and integrator RFP (Request for Proposal) process, your cannabis build-out could overspend on equipment, experience costly construction delays, or pay expensive change order fees to meet codes & regulations.
Firms like Sapphire Risk Advisory have helped open over 150 cannabis locations since 2013, and their experts maximize the ROI on a build-out by designing a compliant security floor plan that meets regulations and protects your assets. They will also connect your facility with vetted integrators to ensure the business is protected from day one.
About the author: About the author: Katherine Baxter is the Lead Technical Writer and Industry News Editor for Sapphire Risk Advisory Group.
