What to Expect When Installing a Security System

Interested in Usherwood’s physical security offerings? Learn about our process to get a better understanding of what you can expect during our process. 

For most businesses, the decision to invest in security doesn’t start with technology, it starts with an event or realization. No matter the reason for investing in a physical security system, it’s a smart decision.

The potential cost of theft, liability issues, or workplace disputes often far outweighs the investment in a properly designed security system. Now, let's get into what to expect when purchasing a physical security system with Usherwood. 

Step 1: Discovery Call

The process begins with a sales representative reaching out. They act as the primary point of contact throughout this whole process. The first step is scheduling a discovery call with a Pre‑Sales Engineer.

The Pre‑Sales Engineer is a dedicated subject matter expert who provides technical guidance and ensures the security solution designed will meet your business’s needs.

What Happens During the Discovery Call

The discovery call is a collaborative discussion meant to give the Pre-Sales Engineer a strong understanding of your business’ needs before any solution is designed.

Key topics discussed during this meeting include:

• Your business goals
• Safety concerns or risks
• What you want the security system to accomplish

Customers are encouraged to share clear, outcome‑based objectives, such as:

• Identifying faces in key areas
• Reading license plates in parking or loading zones
• Monitoring entrances, warehouses, or production areas

These details directly influence system design, camera placement, and technology selection later in the process.

Technology Overview

The discovery call may also include discussions about technology options, such as physical security brands like Axis or Verkada. For example,

• Cloud‑based platforms like Verkada may appeal to customers seeking simplicity, modern features, and centralized management
• Traditional or non‑licensed systems like Axis may suit customers focused on budget or control

This phase ends once key information is shared, goals are made clear, and there is agreement to move forward, setting the foundation for the site walkthrough and solution design.

Step 2: Site Walkthrough

After the discovery call, the next step is a walkthrough of your location with a Pre‑Sales Engineer.

During the walkthrough, Usherwood focuses on:

• Identifying camera and device locations
• Reviewing doors, entry points, and other critical areas that impact installation and cost
• Understanding how the space is used day to day
• Ensuring recommendations align with real operational needs

The goal of the site walkthrough is to build a clear, practical path forward based on how the space is used, so the final physical security solution fits your specific location, risks, and business.

Step 3: Solution Design

Once the walkthrough is done and requirements are clearly defined, the project moves into the solution design phase. This is where planning turns into a concrete system layout.

During this step, the Pre-Sales Engineer:

• Builds out floor plans and maps
• Marks camera locations and doors that will be included
• Designs a system that aligns with the customer’s goals
• Selects camera models and supporting technology that fit your needs

Step 4: Bill of Materials (BOM) & Proposal Review

Bill of Materials 

Once the system design is finalized, a BOM is created. This document outlines all the equipment needed to build and install the security system.

Every item included in the bill of materials is chosen with purpose. The goal is to ensure the equipment directly supports the objectives identified during the discovery and walkthrough. To learn more about what costs contribute to the total cost of ownership of a security system read here.

Proposal Review and Finalization

Before the final proposal is delivered, a pre‑proposal review meeting is held to ensure everything is aligned. This step helps confirm that nothing has been overlooked and the solution reflects exactly what the customer wants.

After any final adjustments are made, the final proposal is presented. With all product details, site designs, prices and supporting materials. At the end of this step, all details are finalized and ready to move into the agreement and project execution phase.

Step 5: Agreement and Project Timeline

Once the proposal is approved, the project moves into the agreement phase with the signing of a Statement of Work (SOW).

The SOW is a detailed document that clearly defines how the project will be executed. It includes what equipment will be installed, set up of equipment, what is/is not included in the project, customer responsibilities prior to and during installation, and timelines.

This document lays out the entire project and sets clear expectations for both sides. By the time the SOW is signed, the customer will know:

• When installation is scheduled to take place
• What the installation process will look like
• How long the installation is expected to take

Step 6: Project Execution and Installation

After the SOW is signed, the project team takes over and prepares for installation. A project kickoff confirms that all details are in place and that both teams are ready to proceed.

The focus during execution is efficiency, communication, and minimizing disruption to daily operations.

Every installation takes a different amount of time. For example, an office building installing 4 cameras could take a couple hours, but a manufacturing plant installing the same 4 cameras could take a couple of days due to environmental factors.

What to Expect After Installation

Once installation is complete, the relationship doesn’t end. Your sales representative will continue as the primary resource for questions, changes, or future needs. Also, as you begin using the equipment you may realize there is a need for expansion after experiencing the system in action.

Common add‑ons include:

• Additional cameras
• Expanded coverage areas
• Security systems at new locations

If the expansion is within the same location, it typically does not require full redesign. If a new location is added, it is treated as a new project to ensure the system is properly designed for that specific environment and another walkthrough is scheduled.

Why Usherwood?

Overall, Usherwood’s security project lifecycle is built around clarity, planning, and alignment with real business needs. By starting with discovery and moving through walkthrough, design, and installation, each step ensures the system is tailored to your space, risks, and goals, not a generic solution.

This structured approach helps reduce uncertainty, avoid surprises, and deliver a physical security system that provides long‑term value, confidence, and peace of mind.

Now that you know what to expect, are you ready to invest in a quality physical security system? Start your journey with Usherwood by completing a brief evaluation form or chat with a business representative below.