Mr Hansen Tan, executive director of Chambers Property Management Services, observed that with the COVID-19 pandemic, more residents now prefer contactless interactions and digital applications.
“They also expect these contactless interactions to be available 24/7 and be completed within a very short waiting time,” he said.
Besides these evolving expectations, other challenges faced by the estate’s management corporation strata title (MCST) included rising operational costs and manpower-heavy processes.
Outcome-based contracting addresses these challenges. Working alongside Bulls-Eye Security Services, Chambers implemented eight technology-based solutions as part of their outcome-based contract.
Tapping on technologies like artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things, the solutions included a visitor management system, license plate number recognition, remote virtual key and call management systems for common facilities, virtual patrolling and an online community portal for residents.
To get residents on board, Chambers provided a comprehensive overview of the newly installed array of security features and technologies and explained that changes such as less frequent foot patrols were part of an enhanced security experience.
“We informed residents that security personnel had implemented both foot patrols and virtual patrols using new CCTV cameras installed throughout the estate,” said Mr Tan. “Video analytics enables the CCTV system to automatically detect security breaches and record footage.”
Besides being used in virtual patrolling, the on-site CCTV cameras – which had their layouts approved by the MCST and residents – proved handy for catching incidences of littering and driving against traffic, enabling the MCST to take corrective action.
Residents also enjoy greater convenience. Registered vehicles are automatically recognized at carpark gantries and visitors are screened using a QR code. Remote two-way audio and access systems allow security personnel to unlock or lock the doors of common facilities from the guard post.
With outcome-based operations in place, Mr. Tan added that operating costs have been reduced by 11 percent. Security officer headcount has been reduced from eight to six (for weekdays) and seven (for weekends), and for cleaning staff, from 14 to 12.
“The Visionaire’s MCST is now projected to meet its annual budget while delivering more value to residents through the cost savings from outcome-based contract procurement and the adoption of technology-based solutions,” said Mr Tan, who added that the feedback from residents has been positive.
UNMANNED, BUT MONITORED 24/7
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