Blog Posts

Electronic Security Expo

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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


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March 22, 2022 ESX

Early Bird registration for the Electronic Security Expo (ESX) is nearly over. Prices for the event will increase at midnight March 31 with passes increasing up to $100 per person. Security professionals whose companies are members of the Electronic Security Association will continue to receive discounted rates on every registration. Teams are encouraged to register and teams of five people registering for the same pass get the fifth registrant free. 

ESX is uniquely only open the pro-installed channel, so exhibitors can better target their conversations – it is a more focused experience for everyone involved. 

At the ESX expo, attendees will not be subjected to hearing rattled-off product pitches. They can expect to tap exhibitors for advice on marketing, sales, installation training, merchandizing, and more. By design, the event is said to offer attendees from across the industry a more intimate experience to facilitate one-on-one interactions and quality conversations. 

In addition to the main stage presentations and networking opportunities, the 3.5 day event includes 35-plus educational sessions across nine tracks, designed specifically for security professionals. In keeping with the event’s theme, “Security Connected,” sessions will touch on new markets and best practices that will help grow business and remain competitive.   

“I don’t know of a more insightful convention to attend. This was the most beneficial 3 days of my career. I’m left with a ton of ideas I can’t wait to share with my colleagues.” said Deric Morrow, Commercial Account Manager, Johnson Controls in CA 

Topics covered range from improving customer loyalty and industry trends during the pandemic, to implementing the newest monitoring trends to decrease false alarms. A full listing of educational offerings can be searched by tracks — including: Customer Focused, Employee Focused. The Business of Security, Financial Growth, New Markets, The Business of Monitoring, The Future is Now, Increase Sales— or day. 

ESX Executive Passes offered in 2022 include: 

A NEW Executive Leadership Track. Today’s company leaders are facing unprecedented challenges. Workforce shortages, supply chain delays, technology platforms rapidly being upgraded, and consumer demands ever changing. ESX has teamed up with Executive Education at the Southern Methodist University (SMU) Cox School of Business to develop 4 hours of executive leadership education that will provide breakthrough insights and advanced skills on change leadership and people management – two of the toughest areas for integrator companies. The instructors who will deliver the learning experiences are proven experts and thought leaders. They’re top practitioners with years of experience solving tough business problems for leading corporations nationwide. And they’re passionate educators—dynamic, committed mentors whose enthusiasm is contagious. 

Workshops in the Executive Leadership Track:  

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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March 8, 2022 ESX

ESX is about more than badge scans. It is about quality conversations, problem-solving, and bringing the industry together to move it forward. When asked “Did you have quality conversations at ESX?” Attendee survey responses were clear…

YES MANY, MANY TIMES OVER! Had several great conversations relating to market trends and sales strategies” says one ESX Attendee

The Electronic Security Expo (ESX) is quickly becoming the “UNevent,” redefining the traditional purpose of industry shows within the electronic security and life safety channel. With a mission to bring leaders together to learn more, share more and interact more, this year’s event held in Fort Worth will be just that. ESX 2022 is #SecurityConnected, immersing dedicated security professionals in a niche pro-installed environment, where they are provided actionable ideas, strategies, and collaboration opportunities to move the industry forward. It’s a more modern take on the traditional expo, where education and advice take the lead over sales pitches. See the ESX lineup of educational sessions, here.

After attending ESX, attendee Jonathan Schweiger, CEO of SmartTek Systems said the following — “I’ve been in the security industry for a little over 30 years now. I learned more in the past two days than I have since returning to the industry two years ago, — This may have been my first ESX, but it will not be my last! —

“While ISC has its purpose — ESX’s purpose is completely different. Aside from it being more intimate, it pulls the industry together — to work collaboratively in a positive, productive way by focusing on solutions, not staying stuck in the problem.”

The event — owned by Electronic Security Association — has invested significant resources in ensuring quality education is delivered at registration prices that allow integration and monitoring companies of all sizes to bring their leadership teams — elevating the industry as a whole. “ESX proved to be the most valuable industry event for our company’s leadership team. The program, setting, and networking activities were amazing,” says Pat Sparrow, Director of Business Development, Telsco Security. 

At ESX 2022, you won’t just hear rattled off product features. Come prepared to tap exhibitors for advice on marketing, sales, installation training, merchandising and more. Since ESX is open exclusively to electronic security and life safety professionals, exhibitors are able to better target their conversations —it’s a more focused experience for everyone.  

ESX Passes range from free options to $699 for the new ESX Executive Pass. Prices will increase April 1. Visit ESXweb.com/register for more.


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March 8, 2022 ESX

The 2022 Electronic Security Expo (ESX), presented by Electronic Security Association (ESA), has released the full educational lineup for its educational conference which will take place at the Fort Worth Convention Center in Fort Worth, Texas from June 14-17. 

In addition to the main stage presentations and networking opportunities, the 3.5 day event includes 35-plus educational sessions across nine tracks, designed specifically for security professionals. In keeping with the event’s theme, “Security Connected,” sessions will touch on new markets and best practices that will help businesses grow and remain competitive.

Attendees who are looking to address a specific business challenge or opportunity can look at the collection of focused sessions, including: 

Customer Focused

An important component in your customer engagement strategy is delivering a hyper-personalized experience that tailors products, services, and experiences according to their needs and wants. Learn how this strategy provides an emotional connection between a customer and your brand to buy more and refer more and deepen their loyalty. Sessions in Engaging Customers Track: 

Employee Focused

Leading a team means inspiring others to achieve certain desired outcomes. Deciding how you manage for success is critical in today’s workforce. Learn from seasoned leaders their leadership strengths and why focusing on engagement rather than merely output will boost your company’s success. Sessions in Managing for Success Track: 

The Business of Security

Identify proven practices that take your company to the next level, financially, legally, and operationally. Learn to manage your risks, improve top line revenues and bottom-line profits, and increase RMR. Sessions in The Business of Security Track: 

Financial Growth

Expanding a business offers the potential for many growth opportunities. Employees, customers, and owners all benefit from sound business growth strategies with increased wages, expanded products and services, and greater profits. Learn to manage growth with insights on how to implement key performance indicators that drive sustainable financial results. Sessions in Financial Growth Track: 

New Markets

Expanding into new markets can be an effective way to grow your business. Having a disciplined approach will help you identify complimentary markets and innovative product and service offerings. Learn how to assess each growth opportunity more accurately and develop a viable go-to-market strategy. Sessions in New Markets Track: 

Increased Sales

Investing in your sales team has a meaningful and positive impact on your sales results. Learn how to coach the sales team for better results and identify the products and services that grow your revenues and RMR. Sessions in Increased Sales Track:

The Business of Monitoring

Delivering quality security and life safety monitoring services to end-users, including cloud-based lifestyle enhancements, is mission critical 24/7. Discover best-of-breed operator training, state-of-the-art technology infrastructure, and vital monitoring processes and procedures for next-gen central stations. Learn from seasoned professionals who share best practices to maximize your 24/7 monitoring operation effectively and profitably. Sessions in The Business of Monitoring Track: 

The Future is Now

Examine the future of our industry through emerging trends, new products, technologies, and services that will excite your customers. Discover what and who are reshaping our industry, explore exit or succession strategies, and create a vision of what’s next for you and your company. Sessions in The Future is Now Track: 

Executive Leadership

Today’s company leaders are facing unprecedented challenges. Workforce shortages, supply chain delays, technology platforms rapidly being upgraded, and consumer demands ever changing. ESX has teamed up with Executive Education at the Southern Methodist University (SMU) Cox School of Business to develop 4 hours of executive leadership education that will provide breakthrough insights and advanced skills on change leadership and people management – two of the toughest areas for integrator companies. The instructors who will deliver the learning experiences are proven experts and thought leaders. They’re top practitioners with years of experience solving tough business problems for leading corporations nationwide. And they’re passionate educators—dynamic, committed mentors whose enthusiasm is contagious. Workshops in the Executive Leadership Track: 

“We’re excited to bring our community together this June for best practice and idea sharing, anchored by a stellar education session lineup,” said George De Marco, chairman, ESX.

Now more than ever, it is imperative for security professionals to take advantage of opportunities that drive growth and profitability, improve the customer experience, and prepare them for the future.” he continues.

“ESX is focused on providing the best possible program for our community and we’re confident that they’ll walk away energized and inspired ready to take on today’s changing competitive landscape.”

The complete listing of educational programming, including NEW leadership sessions, can be found here.

ESX Passes range from free options to $699 for the new ESX Executive Pass. Prices will increase April 1. Visit ESXweb.com/register for more.


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February 23, 2022 ESX

With changing social, economic and business environments, security professionals need to adapt to new market strategies and offerings. Identifying the right next gen products and services can have a positive impact on the customer pipeline, improve the customer experience and keep customers loyal. 

New Markets: SMB’s – Expanding Opportunities with New Services 

As the world experiences a digital transformation and a renewed reliance on broadband services, small to medium businesses (SMBs) are poised to invest in their physical security and network system. According to Parks Associates, 21% of SMBs report a need for products and monitoring services that deliver safety and security for their employees and business. Currently, one-half of SMBs have a security system, with 45% of those systems being professionally monitored. During the session, “New Markets: Expanding Opportunities with New Services” members from Parks Associates will share insights and address the following: 

  • How remote work arrangements have exposed new security vulnerabilities and increased the need for cyber security solutions 
  • How security providers can benefit from offering value-added services that include on site security and monitoring services, advanced threat detection, wi-fi and network configuration, and other services 

Industry Introspective – Challenges, Trends and Opportunities  

The pandemic has changed the world, and its effects will be lasting in the near future. Regardless of the industry, change happened, touching each one in different ways. The security industry wasn’t immune to the effects of Covid. However, many dealers and integrators flourished during the pandemic, as they adapted to change and were aggressive in their approach to tackling the new normal. Profound and practical applications are being applied to innovative technology and services, especially as artificial intelligence and machine learning gain more acceptance. The delivery of security services is being affected by remote working models, cost of higher wages, reinvention of supply-chains, new applications of technology, and critical protection of information security. During the session, “Industry Introspective – Challenges, Trends and Opportunities” Micheal Barnes of Barnes Associates, Inc. will cover: 

  • What pandemic-induced consumer and business behaviors are not going away  
  • The industry trends and challenges that will affect your business and how to prepare for tomorrow – strategically, operationally, and financially. 
  • The business attributes and metrics buyers will be focused on     
  • How to capitalize on next-gen products and services and monetize them 
  • What you must do to stay relevant and on top of your game 

These sessions will provide a glimpse at how security professionals are navigating today’s business environment and protecting their customers against evolving threats,” says ESX Chairman George DeMarco.

“It is vital for ESX to provide a platform for security professionals to come together to exchange ideas and best practices. It’s how our industry gets stronger — by learning from one another. That’s why ESX 2022 is #SecurityConnected.” he continues.

The complete listing of educational programming, including NEW leadership sessions, can be found here.

ESX Passes range from free options to $699 for the new ESX Executive Pass. Prices will increase April 1. Visit ESXweb.com/register for more.


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February 22, 2022 George DeMarco

At some point this year, the status of the pandemic should change to endemic stage, unless a new variant creates a major health concern. If we enter the endemic stage, Covid-19 will then become a part of our daily lives, like the seasonal flu, requiring us to get used to it. As dealers and integrators adjust to the new normal, I believe that the remainder of this year will bring less of a worry about Covid-19 and give way to other concerns, such as changing consumer expectations, access to products, labor shortages, and product and wage inflation. All organizations will modify their travel, health, and safety protocols, based on their risk tolerance of the pandemic’s status.  

Changes in the Workforce Landscape 

In addition, hybrid remote work options will remain a highly desirable choice for employees, as they have become accustomed to remote work alternatives. The place of work is rapidly changing, and many employees believe that the time is right to seek other opportunities that may provide higher wages, better work-life balance, improved career path, a more aligned business or life purpose, or the ability to relocate to another community. All of this is having a profound impact on every employer in the electronic security industry, as they realign their organizations to accommodate expectations of the current and future workforce.      

Expand Product & Service Offerings 

End users want the products and services we offer, which was proved last year. Many dealers and integrators experienced an exceptional growth year, especially those that had a higher risk tolerance in their growth strategies. I believe this year will require a similar risk tolerance, as other business risks come up front and center to replace the challenges from the pandemic. I anticipate this year will bring significant opportunities for organizations that are prepared to tackle the post-pandemic economy. However, being a one-dimensional burglar alarm provider may limit your growth potential, rather than offering complementary products and services that drive subscription fees (RMR) and higher profits.  

End-Users Are Adopting More Technology

The pandemic has caused an emerging change that will accelerate adoption of the digital life by people. With that, there is a broad appeal of remote processes that embrace tele-everything and smart products and apps for living and working in the digital world, greatly changing work structures and family life. This emerging change offers security professionals the ability to reinforce themselves as the trusted source and technology expert, helping end-users get and experience what really matters to them. End users want technology to easily control and manage their homes and businesses, and to keep them connected remotely, giving them a greater sense of safety, security, comfort, and convenience, including situational awareness that brings understanding or anticipation of needs. Until the integration of connected devices truly becomes ubiquitous and seamless, end-users will need dealers and integrators to manage the installation process and customer service support.  

A dealer or integrator that strives to understand the changing needs and expectations of its existing and future customers will be able to fine-tune their brand messaging and promise, select the right product and service offerings, and help differentiate themselves from the competition. 

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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February 8, 2022 ESX

Registration is now open for Electronic Security Expo (ESX) 2022, a trade show and educational conference designed by and for security professionals and owned by the Electronic Security Association (ESA). This national best-practice sharing event will be held June 14-17 at the Fort Worth Convention Center in Fort Worth Texas.

The event is designed to provide security professionals a forum to learn about the latest technology innovations; acquire proven business strategies; gain new insights based on best practices; and connect with peers to grow a trusted network.

The show offers several registration options, including free access to the expo only and it’s NEW Executive Pass for access to exclusive leadership sessions. The lowest registration pricing (Early bird) will be available until March 31.

ESX 2022 is “Security Connected,” immersing dedicated security professionals in a niche pro-installed environment, where they are provided actionable ideas, strategies, and collaboration opportunities to move the industry forward.

“Many success stories involve a little luck. However, Baltasar Gracián once said, ‘There are rules to luck, not everything is chance to the wise; luck can be helped with skill.’  To tip the scales in your favor, ESX offers meaningful educational and networking opportunities that will provide valuable insights and varying perspectives about the business of security,” says ESX Chairman George DeMarco.

“What can you learn? How can you capitalize on industry trends? Who can you meet that will change your perspective? Give your team the opportunity to grow, learn and advance your business this June,” he continues.

At ESX attendees won’t hear rattled-off product pitches. They can expect to tap exhibitors for advice on marketing, sales, installation training, merchandising, and more. ESX is uniquely only open the pro-installed channel, so exhibitors can better target their conversations – for a more focused experience for everyone involved.

By design, the event offers attendees from across the industry a more intimate experience to facilitate one-on-one interactions and quality conversations.

In addition to the expo experience, education sessions will be held throughout the week that will deliver practical and strategic advice on how to run, grow and maximize business operations — as well as thought-provoking discussions aimed at challenging attendees to rethink the future, like:

  • Top Five Ways to Improve Cash Flow
  • Navigating a Tight Labor Market – Find. Retain. Augment.
  • Powerful Hacks to Grow Your Recurring Revenue
  • Leveraging Data: Analytics that Drive Customer Experience, Sales and RMR

The complete listing of educational programming, including NEW leadership sessions, will be revealed later this month.

ESX Passes range from free options to $699 for the new ESX Executive Pass. Prices will increase April 1. Visit ESXweb.com/register for more.


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February 8, 2022 George DeMarco

The supply chain encompasses everything from sourcing the raw materials to the eventual product delivery. Many of the basic building-block chips go into the products the industry sells to consumers, businesses, governmental agencies, etc. Unfortunately, the chip shortage will likely get worse before it gets better, with some experts saying that it may not return to normal until 2023.

Dealers and integrators are integral in the delivery process, installing products and providing ongoing customer support services. As a result, if there is a supply chain bottleneck at any point, such as labor and semiconductor shortages, transportation delays, or price inflation, this disruption can cause growth challenges for dealers and integrators in 2022. However, I believe these challenges will be lessened in the second half of 2022, if these key risk factors are addressed:

  1. Materials: The demand for products that use computer chips will continue to outstrip the supply side until semiconductor manufacturers resolve it and move to a more resilient supply chain process.
  2. Labor shortages: This is requiring dealers, integrators, and monitoring centers to rethink compensation packages, professional development, and employee retention programs for new and existing workers.
  3. Consumer Demand: Labor and semiconductor shortages are causing cost inflation, which needs to be passed on to end-users. As a result, end-users may elect to delay or postpone projects if costs continue to skyrocket, potentially muting growth.

As supply chain disruption begins to subside, I believe the growth outlook for the electronic security industry will become more normalized as we enter a post-pandemic economy. In this next phase, consumer and business behaviors towards technology are changing along with their expectations, including privacy and information security. This will impact those companies unprepared for the next phase.

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.