Blog Posts

Electronic Security Expo

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June 14, 2022 ESX

Fort Worth, Texas – ESA would like to thank its Premier Event Sponsors for their support in this year’s Electronic Security Expo (ESX) taking place June 14-17, 2022 in Fort Worth, Texas. This conference and tradeshow for security integration, life safety, and monitoring companies has earned a stellar reputation as the must-attend event for the industry’s most innovative and influential leaders. Beyond the tradeshow floor is an unparalleled opportunity to position organizations as a leading force in the marketplace.

“From helping security and alarm dealers modernize their businesses to bringing leading technologies together for the industry to see, ESX 2022 will deliver insights that impact our industry. Furthermore, ESX delivers a rich conference program featuring leading experts who will highlight their knowledge of security technology, business efficiencies, and professional development. Because of these reasons, we are proud to sponsor this year’s event and look forward to engaging with this impressive community.” Rochelle Thompson, Chief Marketing Officer, Netwatch Group.

ESX is where passionate electronic security and life safety professionals gather. It’s large enough to see the latest products and services, and intimate enough to have meaningful business conversations. “Louroe Electronics has been a manufacturer and member for many years with satisfaction. We draw a business relationship with ESA and ESX as the go-to in understanding the integrator need for quality products and services. Life safety and smart technology are two of the interests Louroe has, making us great partners. Both ESA and the ESX show do a great job with training and management services to leading integrators.” –  Paul Kersh, Marketing Manager, Louroe Electronics

Our top sponsorship levels afford the best spotlight possible. When this focused group comes together to share their ideas and solutions, the industry takes a bold leap forward in setting the pace for its future. We are incredibly thankful to have dedicated sponsors who allow for this incredible event to happen and continue to bring a nationwide industry together. For a complete list of all ESX sponsors, please visit: www.esxweb.com/sponsors-and-partners/

About ESX
ESX (Electronic Security Expo) brings together professionals who are passionate about the business of electronic security and life safety. Dealers, integrators and monitoring professionals attend ESX to connect with like-minded peers, learn from business thought leaders, and discover emerging trends and technologies. Exceptional peer-to-peer education delivers strategies that help security and life safety professionals run, grow, and maximize their businesses–as well as rethink the future. The exhibit hall showcases the latest products, technologies and services, while dynamic networking events offer professionals opportunities to engage and collaborate. ESX 2022 will be held June 14-17 at the Fort Worth Convention Center in Fort Worth Texas. Learn more at www.ESXweb.com and follow us on Twitter@esxweb, Facebook, and LinkedIn.


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June 13, 2022 ESX
BY: ESX 2022 KEYNOTE SPEAKER, DR. IVAN JOSEPH 

Over the past months I’ve spoken a lot about my journey to lead Guyana to the final round of the World Cup Qualifiers. This was my big, hairy, audacious goal (Jim Collins, Good to Great). It had never been done before. I wanted it for our team, our staff, for our country more than anything. I wanted this. I was leaving no stone unturned. I funded my own recruitment service to identify talent. I created my own Christmas holiday camp. The staff was meticulous in their planning and details. We knew that we had a chance, and we honestly felt like we were going to do it. We went through the first three games undefeated. Our final match was in Tobago. We knew that if we took care of business and won, we would accomplish our goal. 

I could tell we were ready when I walked in the changeroom. We took the lead late in the first half, 1-0. When Trinidad and Tobago tied it up, we took the lead again: 2-1. We were a minute away from accomplishing our goal when, unfortunately, we shut off. A fluke, errant kick found its way in a bouncing ball scramble into the back of the goal. Trinidad tied the game, and that was all they needed to advance. We were a minute away from accomplishing what many thought was impossible.

There is no joy in second place. We fell short of our goal. We did not qualify for the World Cup. We went home empty-handed.

To say we were devastated would be an understatement. We were despairing, despondent, demolished and any other d-word you can imagine… put it on the list.

You can include doubt in there, as well, because when you lose, as a coach, you doubt all your actions and wonder what you could have done differently. There are often times that high performers set lofty, ambitious goals and are unable to achieve them.

It’s a careful balancing act to know how high to reach so that you push yourself while recognizing that in striving, you will not catch every goal you set your eyes upon.

How you lead when you fall short of your goal is key to maintaining the ground you’ve gained in its pursuit.

Leaders that seek true excellence and aspirational challenges will miss our goals from time to time. How we choose to react in the moments after are key to how you maintain the commitment of your team; how they can continue to believe; and, whether they will go on following you to the ends of the earth.

It’s easy to get lost in the emotion of failure — to blame others for their errors. It’s common to feel embarrassment and shame when the spotlight is on you right when you didn’t deliver. It’s tempting to blame third parties: ‘I didn’t have the resources, the budget.’ Deflecting doesn’t allow you to actually REFLECT and ask yourself the important questions: “What should I have done better?” and “What could I do differently?”

FOUR STEPS TO LEADING AFTER FAILURE  FINDING YOUR WAY THROUGH THE DARK: 

#1. Be quiet. 

I don’t address the team immediately with any critical feedback. I’m too emotional, and they’re too emotional. The message will not be clear. It will not be interpreted in the right way. There is no value gained with harsh words. Be as supportive as you can here. Allow people the space others need to express the emotions that they need to share. Listen. Do not react. Make no decisions. Take no actions. 

#2. Stay still. 

Sometimes when we put all of our resources into a goal and it doesn’t happen, we want to throw up our hands and walk away. We’re exhausted. We may feel that our efforts were futile or unappreciated. Recognize that now is not the time for actions. Wait. Allow yourself some critical time to think, to weigh, to measure… You may choose to pen a letter. Don’t send it. You may choose to vent — only do it with your closest, innermost circle to test your thinking. Don’t bottle it up inside you. It can become toxic. 

#3. Reflect. 

It’s time to do an honest, deep dive reflection where you are actively soliciting feedback–the raw, sometimes hard to hear, feedback. Cast a wide net. Hear feedback from your trusted advisors, from the people inside your team and from those on the outside looking in. Look for the consistent messages and themes. If we do this step superficially, we won’t make measurable, significant gains. I always know that I’ve made the right decision if, after the action, I ask myself would I still do it the same way again. If the answer is no, there is a teachable moment there—the actions and choices I would change if I could. Search for the teachable moments and take action to put those alternative actions and choices into your practices moving forward. Now you’ve got something different to try–something you’ve hashed out after honest, deep and collaborative reflection. 

#4. Regroup. 

Once you’ve calmed down, sorted it out, gathered your feedback, distilled your lessons learned and planned your steps to improve, you need to gather your team to share your findings. It’s not a one-way conversation. Make sure your team’s feedback is reflected clearly in this stage so they actually hear and see their own words. Bringing the group back together and sharing lessons learned engenders trust and loyalty. It’s then time to begin again.  

Remind your fellow high performers that nothing great comes easily. Stress that persistence is the key to excellence, and begin again. 

 


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June 6, 2022 ESX

I am super excited to go to my first ESX as Chairman of ESA. It’s where memories are made, lifelong friendships are formed, information is exchanged, mentorships are born, and businesses learn to thrive!

It is my pleasure to explore each with a personal story.

Memories: First, I will wade into the dangerous category of memories. While there are a lot of personal memories, the ones that publicly shame are sometimes the most fun! I remember when I had left my iPad at a meal table and the next Main Stage George DeMarco decided to fine me publicly for its return. SIAC benefited and I got my iPad back. Moral of this story: don’t leave anything behind!

Lifelong friendships: There are so many it is difficult to select one. Past ESA President and Weinstock Recipient Angela White reached out to me at one ESX and we had a great conversation about life, ESA, and business. She invited me to meet so many wonderful and influential people. As life has happened to both of us, she has always been there to spend countless hours on the phone with me.

Information Exchanged: There are those moments of clarity that become AHA moments in each of our lives. Sometimes, just being together presents opportunities to exchange information in meaningful ways.

Mentorships: There are people in one’s life that just simply make you better. I remember watching Steve Firestone on stage and thinking to myself how impressed I was with him. How he handled himself, the ease and care in which he formed his answers and the overall wisdom behind them. At the time, I never thought I would get to know him— much less have him as a mentor. Just that happened. Not only did I get to know him, but anytime I called he made me his top priority —at least it felt that way. He has made one of the most positive impacts in my life and I’m honored to call him a friend.

In short make friendships, meet mentors, engage with them to make memories and above all don’t be afraid to share ideas and listen —engage and enjoy!

 

  • Come thank Jamie Vos for his service to the industry and welcome new board members being sworn in at the ESA Annual Meeting, being held at ESX Tuesday, June 14 at 4:30 in room 103A/B.

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June 2, 2022 ESX

ESX’s Innovation Awards distinguish innovation and excellence in the industry — and identify the next-gen products and services that will offer significant opportunities for growth for integrator companies.

These products and services were selected by an independent panel of judges based on a specific set of criteria, including ingenuity, applicability, response to market need and more.

The 2022 ESX Innovation Awards Judging Panel, led by Mark Reimer of ADT, also included Michele Monheim, Customer Service Manager of Amherst Alarm, Inc., Rodger Reiswig, Fellow & VP Industry Relations, Global Fire Detection Products of Johnson Controls, and Eric Widner, General Manager of LOUD Security. ESX is grateful to these judges for lending their time and expertise to this important program that recognizes forward-thinking ideas within the security industry.

“We are proud to highlight next-gen products and services that create new opportunities for security professionals to offer their end users,” says George De Marco, ESX chairman. “In addition, these winners offer innovative solutions for companies looking to effectively grow their revenues, improve the customer experience and maximize their profits.”

 

ESX congratulates the forward thinking companies behind these 22 breakthrough technologies and services for 2022.

 

Access Control/ID Systems

Gate/Door Operators

Product: IQ Lockdown

Company: Johnson Controls

 

Electronic/Mechanical Locks

Product: Home Connect 620 Keypad Connected Smartlock

Company: Kwikset

 

Hosted / Managed Access Systems

Product: AirAccess®

Company: NAPCO Security Technologies

 

Readers / Keypads

Product: SPECTRE Nano

Company: STid

 

Cyber Security

Data Privacy Solutions

Product: uRISQ

Company: CSR Privacy Solutions

 

Dealer Services

Business Operations

Product: QuoteAnywhere and the Site Survey 3.0

Company: WeSuite, LLC

 

Fire Life/Safety

Controllers & Control Panels – Analog / Addressable / Conventional Systems

Product: FireLink XL 255 New 255Pt Addressable FACP powered by StarLink Cellular

Company: NAPCO Security Technologies

 

Cellular / Radio Communications

Product: StarLink Max Fire Cellular Communicator

Company: NAPCO Security Technologies

 

Installation/Service Tools

Systems Design/LifeCycle Maintenance – Commercial

Product: SiteOwl

Company: SiteOwl

 

Intrusion Systems

Controllers & Control Panels

Product: IQ Pro

Company: Johnson Controls

 

Mobile Apps for Consumers

App for Security / Life Safety Systems – Residential

Product: Alarm Verification Services

Company: Alula

 

Monitoring (Central Station)

Interactive Services for End User

Product: AG Chat

Company: AvantGuard Monitoring Centers

 

Dealer App

Product: AvantGuard MLS Reporting Tool

Company: AvantGuard Monitoring Centers

 

GPS / Mobile Tracking

Product: Security mPERS Umbrella

Company: Essence Security International Ltd.

 

Enhanced / Verified Monitoring

Product: Evolon Enterprise 2.0

Company: Evolon Technology, Inc.

 

Software

Product: On Demand Mobile Guard Services

Company: RSPNDR Inc.

 

Smart Home — Electronics/Control Systems/Networking

Energy Management Controls / Systems

Product: Smart Thermostat HD

Company: Alarm.com

 

IT/Networking

Product: IQ WiFi 6

Company: Johnson Controls

 

Home Automation / Home Control Systems

Product: PoolScout

Company: Deep Innovations

 

Specialty Products & Services

Power Supplies & Batteries

Product: Tango – PoE Driven Access Control Power Supply/Chargers

Company: Altronix

 

Command Center Technologies

Product: Vistacom SecureView™

Company: Vistacom Control Room Solutions

 

Video Surveillance

Video Analytics

Product: Business Activity Analytics and Pro Series Cameras

Company: Alarm.com

 


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May 24, 2022 ESX

The past few years have taught us that the electronic security industry is essential and resilient. It has also led many to understand that operational efficiencies and staying close to the customer are paramount for long-term viability. It is time for dealers and integrators to be proactive and set their course. In order to do that with some success, they must first have some industry insights to plot the course ahead.

What might surprise security professionals?

The Good – Security professionals are still considered one of the most trusted partners in delivering safety and security products and services. Because of disruptors entering the industry, they caused traditional players to change their operational playbooks and adopt new product offerings. Although traditional players sometimes rail against these disruptors, their fresh perspectives have supercharged revenues, especially recurring revenue streams.  

The Bad – Truck rolls are getting more expensive. Dealers and integrators will need to augment field service with technology that minimizes truck rolls. 

The fight for the smart home is the next battleground for traditional dealers to address, especially as the largest technology companies on the planet are ramping up their smart home go-to-market strategies. In addition, recurring revenue is at risk for those dealers and integrators that don’t have a proactive customer engagement plan in place.   

Negative Industry Impacts Compared to Previous Years

Supply Chain and Labor Shortages – With supply chain and labor shortages, dealers and integrators may experience lower growth.  

Profit Squeeze – As a result of supply chain and labor shortages, dealers and integrators may experience a profit squeeze unless price increases for products and services are implemented.    

Response to Alarms –  As cities and municipalities implement or consider budget cuts for police services, the potential fallout may result in a more limited capacity for police to respond to alarm activity.

Positive Industry Impacts Compared to Previous Years 

Proven Resiliency – Many dealers, integrators, and monitoring centers experienced strong growth in 2021, proving that security services are important to end users, whether for homes, businesses, or governmental agencies. The most successful companies are the ones that adopted new technologies, services, and methods to market, and have the ability to add incremental and sustainable recurring revenue.  

Customer Experience – Consumers and businesses have a higher degree of interaction and engagement over the technology and services offered by the industry. This simplifies the process of managing what’s important to them on their terms. This reinforces that dealers and integrators are the go-to trusted resource that consumers and businesses expect for security, safety, convenience, or productivity needs.

 

Security professionals who are interested in taking a deeper dive into the industry’s trends should register and attend ESX 2022 in Fort Worth, TX, June 14-17. Over the course of 3.5 days attendees will experience industry-leading education programs, best practices, and more. It is where the industry gathers, and you don’t want to miss it.


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April 28, 2022 ESX

The Innovation Awards gather some of the best and most promising products and services in the electronic security and life safety industry. Contestants compete in categories such as outdoor detection, drones, video analytics, cable and wiring accessories and so much more! Manufacturers and service providers serving the channel with innovative end user offerings and tools that help dealers, integrators and monitoring professional become more efficient and profitable are encouraged to apply. The benefits of entering as a a contestant for the ESX Innovation Awards includes getting exposure on the ESX site, a listing in the ESX Preview Magazine (a print and digital publication sent to over 20,000 electronic security professionals and n official Innovation Award Entrant tabletop sign for display at your ESX booth. Winners at the ESX Awards will be featured on our Security Nation Magazine and receive consideration to compete in ESX’s TechVision Challenge. Winners are also awarded a trophy, and announced in an official press release and recognized in the ESX Showcase on the Expo Floor. Some of the criteria in order to qualify include innovation, end-user experience, compliance with regulations, impact on company values and efficiencies. If you are interested in entering the Innovation Awards as an exhibitor/sponsor for ESX, enter now!

 



April 26, 2022 ESX

 

ESX’s peer-to-peer driven seminars are boasted as one of the strongest educational opportunities in the electronic security and life safety industry. Hear what real attendees have to say about their experience with ESX’s educational programming. No sales pitches — just tactical advice from peers that you can bring back to the office and implement. Register for the Electronic Security Expo today!


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April 22, 2022 ESX

Award-winning coach and Ph.D. sports psychologist, Dr. Ivan Joseph is bringing his expert understanding of Success, Self-Confidence and Grit to the ESX Main Stage on Wednesday, June 15. He has developed, applied and refined dozens of techniques that lead to high performance and excellence.

“I am thrilled to hear Dr. Joseph speak on building self-confidence and success. He is a master communicator that will help us better understand how to overcome our challenges and improve individual and team performance.” says George DeMarco, ESX Chairman

In this energizing and motivational talk, you’ll learn the secrets Dr. Joseph used to help individuals and teams reach goals they never thought possible. Humor, visualization, and immersive activities will keep everyone engaged and create a memorable experience. You’ll walk away from this session with the ability to:

  • Develop and sustain self-confidence, especially in times of adversity.
  • Promote self-confidence in your team and others.
  • Use the power of positive self-talk and set higher expectations.

Dr. Joseph’s TEDx Talk has over 24 million views and was named by Forbes as one of theTop TED Talks AboutThe Meaning of Life. Want to learn more about his keynote? View a preview here.

Off the main stage, there are nine educational tracks for professionals to explore, each filled with peer-led seminars on carefully vetted industry and business topics. This balance of main stage inspiration, coupled with up-close and personal educational sessions will provide an optimized environment for professional development.

The 2022 ESX Keynote Luncheon will be held on the ESX Main Stage. Come here for inspiration, motivation and networking with like-minded electronic security and life safety peers. Just steps away from the expo floor, this plated luncheon will include programming to help build success, self-confidence and grit amongst your leadership team. Self confidence and inspiring self-confidence in others to meet and achieve goals is a skill. Hone this skill at ESX. Executive, Deluxe and Expo Plus pass holders have access to this luncheon.

Register for ESX, held June 14-17 at the Fort Worth Convention Center in TX now. Discounted rates on passes expire May 13