Genetec Favorability Results 2017

If you liken this industry to the automotive industry, Genetec is the BMW of the software world. Sure, you can buy a Hyundai Genesis for less money and still get a really great car. But BMW drivers are drawn to the performance, beauty and innovative spirit behind the "Ultimate Driving Machine". BMW does not build cars for people that just need a car to get to work. They build cars for people that are passionate about how their car drives and looks. I believe that Genetec has a similar philosophy in their product approach. They don't build a VMS for people that just need a way to record their video. You can scratch that itch at Costco or Sams. Genetec builds a performance platform for users that demand a higher standard with more enhancements. Sure, they would both love to capture more of the market, but not by cheapening the product. BMW built a 2-series and 1-series line to fit a small form factor and more cost conscious buyer; however, those drivers still desire the BMW performance. Similarly, Genetec created Stratocast and Security Center Compact for those same types of buyers; those that want superior performance, but have smaller system requirements. Genetec is not a mainstream brand anymore than BMW is, but their name should be synonymous with high performance and innovation.

For what its worth, I drive a pickup truck and have never owned a BMW, but I relate to their vision.

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Undisclosed Manufacturer #2

In reply to Andrew Bowman

Andrew, I used to say that about our own VMS offerings. I won't say which because it doesn't matter. But we stopped saying it because most customers were right in replying, "I don't use BMW/Cadillac/Rolls Royce cars in my business, why would I pay for a CCTV equivalent of one?"

Luxury cars are seen as that, luxury. You may want a BMW like website for your business, or BMW like A/V for your business, or BMW like styling for your office furniture so your clients think highly of you, but security systems are seen as more of a utility, I think.

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Undisclosed #3

Sorry, the analogy started off good, but #2 you took it a bit too far. There still are markets where security systems are not just utility, they are mission critical, integral to the task at hand. And it's not about luxury or status. It's about necessary features and performance to get the job done.

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Undisclosed Manufacturer #2

Und 3, I understand your point on it, but I you're assume I don't think there is value in having reliability and performance in something that is utility. I think we are saying the same thing. Look at it like this, a business needs a vehicle to shuttle around dozens of bags mulch around to it's local stores. A Ford Ranger might do it, but it struggles with the load every-time, so it's not going to last and isn't very efficient. You could use a Cadillac Escalade EXT.... but why?! You get a Chevy Silverado or Ford F150 or F250. More power and reliability than the Ranger and gets the job done better, and for a lot less than the Cadillac. You get better utility. The only reason you'd get the Cadillac is because it has something you really want or need that the lesser expensive trucks don't have, but how often would that be.

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Undisclosed #3

No, we are not saying the same thing. You are implying that there is practically no market for Genetec. And I disagree.

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Undisclosed Manufacturer #2

I did not intend to imply Genetec had no market. My intention was to be careful, from a sales and promotion aspect, to likening it to what many people perceive to be a "luxury" vehicle, luxury implying additional cost for frills that are not any better at utility.

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Andrew Bowman

UI#2 - I appreciate your reply, but you must not understand the marketing slogan that I referenced. Their desire to be the "Ultimate Driving Machine" has less to do with luxury and more to do with acceleration, handling and responsiveness (performance). Their slogan implies nothing about wanting to be the most utilitarian auto brand. In the same respect, I do not recommend a performance security system for every potential client. I know better than to try to sell a sports car to a shopper looking for a commuter vehcile; they don't have the same performance criteria. So, that customer will go to a different provider (with my blessing) and I will seek out the clients that have more complex system requirements.

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Michael Ventiere

We have been commissioning a very large Genetec system (Axis Cameras)and I find it very smooth. We make it do a lot and it is with us every step of the way.

I also met with a number of Genetec techs and sales people at ASIS this year. Generally they all seemed to know their stuff, but then there is probably a reason that they were sent to Orlando. One gave me a really great run through of the product and seemed extremely knowledgeable.

I know my experience as a specifier is always going to be different than an integrator. I only hope my client's have better experiences than some of you have had.

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Undisclosed Integrator #4

They are just as written here. Failure is imminent!

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Undisclosed #3

In reply to Undisclosed Integrator #4

That is your experience, therefore your opinion. Others, including me, have had other positive experiences. Your prediction is a blanket statement.

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Undisclosed Manufacturer #2

I'll let you have the last word. There's no use talking to walls.

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Undisclosed #3

Telling me I have the last word, then taking a jab ... not cool.

My post was intended as a reply to Integrator #4 - my mistake. Sharing your experiences is valid. Making blanket predictions about imminent failure is irresponsible.

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John Honovich

IPVM

No more back and forth here, it is not productive. I'll delete further responses in this exchange.

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Undisclosed Manufacturer #2