The Difference Between VMS and PSIM, and How Both Can Boost Physical Security On Campus

PSIM systems, on the other hand, are often deployed on technology infrastructure and software maintained by the organization’s IT department, and might be integrated with a variety of enterprise and nonsecurity systems, such as geographical information systems and building management systems. This distinction in organizational and IT infrastructure is one of the defining differences between traditional VMS and PSIM installations.

There are other instances, however, where PSIMs are used as dedicated security systems. For example, when an end user has many disparate security systems from different manufacturers that can’t easily be integrated with a VMS. A PSIM may also be used as the primary security system if the end user requires a high level of customization, interoperability with third-party applications or a system that helps to manage the workflow and security processes.

PSIM Is Not Just for Enterprise Users
PSIMs are quickly breaking from the stereotype of being best suited only for large enterprises and government organizations with deep pockets. Today, smaller organizations are looking for the same PSIM benefits.

At its core, the PSIM is an IT-based system. It does not rely upon one system, such as video, to play the role of primary system, but rather aggregates data from multiple, seemingly disparate systems to create a broad, comprehensive view for operators. As an IT system, a PSIM is not bound by brand or type of integration.

A PSIM can manage multiple video systems, multiple access control systems, radar systems, building management systems, elevators, weather feeds, national threat level information, and many other types of systems and corresponding data. This kind of broad capability is not typically possible with a traditional VMS platform.

Correlative Intelligence and Business Logic Explained
One of the most significant differences between PSIM systems and VMS with added integrations is the PSIM’s correlative intelligence and business logic. A PSIM solution is designed and deployed to take advantage of these capabilities to add an additional layer of intelligence between systems and operators.