This designation recognises Quadrant as having fulfilled the training requirements and programme prerequisites to sell, deploy and support Cisco’s network-based physical security solutions to a wide range of vertical sectors.
This programme enables Cisco channel partners to provide multivendor, multiprotocol video surveillance recording, monitoring and virtual matrix switch solutions. In practice, partners deploy a diverse set of Cisco solutions, including Cisco Catalyst switches, Cisco routers and a range of Cisco video surveillance IP gateways, service platforms and Stream Manager software.
Together, these solutions offer end users the ability to seamlessly integrate with, displace or forego expensive video surveillance transmission, matrix switch and distribution amplifier products that were historically used to connect cameras to security operation centres and various recording devices.
Solutions based on innovative technology
Bernadette Wightman – director for UKI channels at Cisco – spoke to SMT Online about the selection of Quadrant for this prestigious accolade. “Quadrant already had good, established relationships with Cisco partners providing physical security solutions,” explained Wightman.
“Including Quadrant in the ATP scheme was therefore a logical step. Quadrant is a solutions deliverer based on innovative technology, which is where our business is, so it was a natural fit.”
Wightman added: “Just as importantly, we felt Quadrant was capable of making the educational threshold in terms of IT concepts and technical requirements.”
In response, John Kirtland – sales and marketing director for Quadrant Security Group – said: “Most traditional security manufacturers have only surface knowledge of IP networks, while their experience of converged systems is limited. Cisco’s expertise in networks, on the other hand, is second to none and its knowledge of convergence is unquestionable. We believe this will be a critical influencer, and is one which complements the ever-increasing involvement of IT Departments in the selection and deployment of security systems.”
Kirtland went on to explain: “As a result, we have built close ties with Cisco and worked hard to attain the post of Cisco Physical Security Authorised Technology Provider. We are excited by the arrival of Cisco’s solutions for ‘physical security’. These solutions bring together a number of innovative video surveillance, management and storage products with the formation of an expanding range of IP cameras to create a portfolio of products that’s truly network-friendly.”
Attaining the Express Foundation Specialisation
To achieve the Physical Security ATP designation, channel partners must first attain the Express Foundation Specialisation. Partners are then asked to meet a series of stringent requirements. They must:
– possess a number of Cisco and industry-standard technical certification requirements
– have an experienced physical security practice
– provide references that document prescribed design and deployment capabilities
– maintain a lab for end user demonstrations, development and customer fault replication
The lab must contain current, upgraded and maintained Cisco physical security solutions, each configured for live product demonstrations and for real-world testing to simulate actual end user conditions.
Strategy in place for emergency technologies
The Cisco Authorized Technology Provider (ATP) Programme is part of Cisco’s go-to-market strategy for emerging technologies. The programme helps Cisco to define the knowledge, skills and services that channel partners need to successfully sell, deploy and support an emerging technology.
As the market changes, an ATP may be discontinued or evolve into a Cisco specialisation.
