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| Customers are seeking systems integration as a solution rather than a component |
“There are a lot of infrastructure projects going on in China. All in all, we are continuing with double digit sales growth from 2012 onwards,” says Davies. TDSi’s key verticals in the UK are commercial, industrial, health and education; transport and finance in China; and government ministries and healthcare facilities in the Middle East.
Rise of web-based security systems
The use of cloud based systems or web based security management systems is on the rise according to Davies. “IP is the norm now rather than the new kid on the block. We sell more IP than conventional access control equipment.”
The trend towards more megapixels and higher definition CCTV images is also having a positive effect for access control in the shape of face recognition and biometric applications.
“Customers are seeking systems integration – a solution rather than a component – for example linking access control with a building management system for heating, cooling and ventilation. We are also seeing the linking of access control with IT systems such as controlling access to computers.”
Skilled personnel
Another European advantage for the company is finding appropriately skilled engineers. Because TDSi finds it difficult to recruit software engineers in the UK, it opened an office in Poland staffed by Polish engineers servicing the UK market. “I’d like to employ more people in the UK but I can’t wait for the UK education system to produce the engineers we need. We have more software engineers in Poland than in the UK.”
Economic policies
Turning to the political situation in Europe, Davies thinks the UK should stay in the EU, but with the rules of engagement changed so there shouldn’t be economic or benefit migration. “There has to be a realisation that there needs to be a two-speed EU; with countries in the Eurozone closer together but those outside it with more sovereignty.”
