In The Boardroom With...

Mr. Bill Bozeman, CPP, CHS 
President/CEO
www.psasecurity.com 

SecurityStockWatch.com: What, Who & Why TEC? SecurityStockWatch.com recently sat down with Bill Bozeman, PSA Security Network’s President and CEO, to discuss some common misconceptions about their signature event PSA-TEC. 

SecurityStockWatch.com: What does the TEC in PSA-TEC stand for?

Bill Bozeman: TEC stands for Training, Exhibits and Conference. PSA-TEC has all of the education you need for your entire company, all in one place. It is where you can get physical security certifications, learn from the leading minds in the industry, and explore ideas from your peers.  In addition we have an exciting, full day of product and service offerings on May 8th from the security industry's top manufacturers. Explore state-of-the-art technologies and cutting-edge business solutions, preparing your company for success. We also offer the industry's best networking opportunities where you can engage with your peers and technology leaders in a fast-paced, energetic environment.

SecurityStockWatch.com: Who should attend PSA-TEC?

Bill Bozeman: PSA-TEC is an event open to the whole security industry.  You DO NOT need to in the PSA family to take advantage of this event. TEC offers training for everyone from techs to execs! Whether you come for just the exhibit day or stay for the entire 5 days of training and networking, PSA-TEC is a can’t miss for anybody in our industry.

SecurityStockWatch.com: Why should somebody attend TEC?

Bill Bozeman: The value is obvious. The standard cost of PSA-TEC is $549 and includes five full days of education to choose from, that’s over 400 hours, and most courses are included at no additional cost. In addition you get entrance to the May 8th exhibit hall and all evening networking events. These events range from a bowling tournament and night at a comedy improve theatre, to our signature event, Jam Session, where those in our industry gather to show us their musical talent. In addition to all of that, you will also get a full breakfast and lunch every day in addition to snack breaks every day. Where else can you get all of that for this low of a price?

We constantly strive to make this annual event fresh and new every year. In that we’ve added new courses to each track that will prove to be educational, timely and informative.  Join us May 6-10 in beautiful Westminster, Colorado and experience PSA-TEC for yourself!
Visit www.psaTEC.com for additional information and to Register Today!

Securitronics - Premier Profile with Terry Rivet

Bill Bozeman: If you are interested in more information about Securitronics please visit their website at: www.Securitronics.com.

Mr. Tom Hagen

Recently Bill Bozeman sat down with Tom Hagen and Tim Ferrian from Pro-Tec. Below you'll find their discussion about their company, the verticals they cover as well as the future of Pro-TEC.

Bill Bozeman: Please tell us about Pro-Tec Design.

Tom Hagen: Pro-Tec has been in business since 1982, we have 34 employees. Most of our business is done in Minnesota and surrounding states. A number of our accounts are national in scope. Through our partnership and affiliations with other PSA network members we have been able to provide them with instillation and service nationally. We offer a real advantage to them in comparison to working with a "national" distributor.

Bill Bozeman: Other than distribution and hospitality, are there other verticals where Pro-Tec is comfortable?

Tim Ferrian: We do quite a bit of work with healthcare, state, local and city government and also education, those tend to be our biggest markets. That's actually changed over the years, as it's progressed we've learned that each of these markets deserves a different level of expertise rather than have a generalist that tries to know a little bit about everything. We've organized the sales force so that there are specific vertical market specialists that can get down into those specific needs for those particular markets.

Bill Bozeman: Tim, you are the Director of Sales and Marketing for Pro-Tec Design?

Tim Ferrian: That's correct, in total there's 8 of us that work with customers on the selling side.

Bill Bozeman: Pro-Tec uses other PSA members for regional and national projects. Do you do this on a regular basis?

Tom Hagen: In years gone by we've really stayed away from that because we didn't know how to deliver and the last thing we wanted to do was engage with a prospect or a client that we weren't confident we could really meet their expectations. We got involved with PSA about 5 years ago, and one of the tremendous benefits is that we found other companies that operate and share values and a mission and a vision that's very similar to ours. There's nothing better than working with a rural run systems integrator and services company because when they are locally owned they're committed, they can't afford to make a mistake and have to do what it takes to do it right.

Bill Bozeman: Tell us about Pro'Tec's mission, vision and values, and how do they impact your day-to-day activities?

Tim Ferrian: For me specifically as the director of Sales and Marketing we're looking to add to our group all of the time. I tend to look for people that are on the leading edge of technology, it tends to be a little bit of a younger crowd because I've noticed that the landscape of our end users customers is also changing with the introduction of IT technology and how the decisions are being changed from what use to be the security directors making these decisions to more of the IT group. We're finding that we're having more success when the sales group is a little bit younger and is communicating to those younger IT people. The best thing about Pro-Tec stems from our mission, vision and values. Especially our values, which are really just great rules or characteristics that I think everybody should live by, be it your work life or personal life. We talk about those things openly during the recruiting process and let them know that because of those values this is really a place where good people are allowed and encouraged to do good things and build a career, a career that could be 20 and 30 years long.

Bill Bozeman: What is one thing you'd like to say about Pro-Tec design?

Tom Hagen: My message would be this, "A good system architecture provides a roadmap for the portion of the road yet to be built." We think that is really important. We think that anything we design or propose for a customer should have a long view in mind. Anything that we do that adds on to an existing system, we should do it in a way that would maximize the investment they've already made and be a stepping stone towards the end result that they want to get to.

Bill Bozeman: If you are interested in more information about Pro-Tec Design's website, please visit: www.Pro-TecDesign.com

PSA Security Network's Business Solutions, a suite of value-added products, services and programs, help security professionals be more competitive in the marketplace. All of PSA's trusted providers of Business Solutions will be at PSA-TEC , exhibiting on Wednesday, May 8th, 2013. PSA Security Network's President and CEO, Bill Bozeman, discusses our Business Solutions individually. This month we'll be focusing on Security America Risk Retention Group.

SecurityStockWatch.com: What is Security America's main focus?

Bill Bozeman: Security America's main focus is protecting security integrators from harm brought on by on the job mistakes, which could lead to lawsuits and possible devastation to you and your company. Security America is licensed in all fifty states and offers general liability, including errors and omissions insurance. Each plan is built to suit your company's specific needs. In the chance that you find yourself in the midst of a lawsuit with a customer, an alarm monitoring company, or a contractor completing your install, Security America protects the assets you've worked hard to obtain.

SecurityStockWatch.com: What types of services are included with Security America?

Bill Bozeman: Security America offers Commercial General Liability coverage tailored to accommodate the needs of the Electronic Life Safety, Security and Systems Industry through the Security America Risk Retention Group (RRG) program.

SecurityStockWatch.com: Why do I need General Liability coverage?

Bill Bozeman: In many states, this type of coverage is required to legally meet licensing requirements. Even when it's not a state requirement, it's a good idea. Security America is unique in that they fully understand the business and can ensure the appropriate protection. Integrators who are insured by companies who do not come from the security industry have experienced oversights or gaps in coverage.

SecurityStockWatch.com: How can Security America help companies better their business?

Bill Bozeman: Being found at fault for an installation mistake could cripple your company, your bottom line and your reputation as a whole. The risk retention professionals at Security America alleviate the worry that comes with the threat of lawsuit, allowing you to bring the focus back to your business. They are also willing to work with your local agents so you can maintain your long lasting relationship with your current broker. Each individual application is reviewed for the best possible pricing, so it is beneficial to at least allow Security America the opportunity to put together a quote for you.

SecurityStockWatch.com: Where do I go to find more information or to start using Business Solutions?

Bill Bozeman: Contact PSA, and we can help you get started. Visit www.buyPSA.com/Solutions, call 303-450-3461, or email Solutions@PSASecurity.com.

Q: What is Security Dealer Marketing's main focus?

Bill Bozeman: Security Dealer Marketing (SDM) focuses on creating brand awareness for and educating dealers and manufacturers on how marketing tools work, from collateral production to strategy deployment, to generate more recurring monthly revenue. They focus on generating results and creating services that work specifically for the security community.

Q: What types of managed services are included with Security Dealer Marketing?

Bill Bozeman: They can help with any marketing questions or needs, from traditional design/print services to targeted online campaigns to comprehensive marketing strategy overhaul or development. Security Dealer Marketing works with many types of semi-custom website development packages, including Search Engine Optimization (SEO), Pay-Per-Click (PPC) and Google Analytics services. They also offer marketing support for point of sale materials, logo design or redesign, email marketing, social media campaigns and press releases.

Q: How can Security Dealer Marketing help companies better their business?

Bill Bozeman: Security Dealer Marketing can handle the logistics and details of your marketing programs, allowing you to focus on other areas of your business. With years of expertise in security marketing, they eliminate the guess work. SDM has spent the last 15 years working with numerous large domestic brands, and they will that experience and use it to guide your company to get greater return on investment. They work with a number of PSA integrators and partners and we've been pleased with the partnership, service and results.

Q: Where do I go to find more information or to start using Business Solutions?

Bill Bozeman: To learn more about Security Dealer Marketing or any of the PSA Business Solutions programs, schedule a webinar demonstration, or get signed up, simply visit www.buyPSA.com/Solutions, call 303-450-3461, or email Solutions@PSASecurity.com. Additionally, all of PSA's trusted providers of Business Solutions will be at PSA-TEC 2013, exhibiting on Wednesday, May 8, 2013. For the most up-to-date information on this event, visit www.psaTEC.com.

Q: What is Integrator Support's main focus?

Bill Bozeman: Integrator support's main focus is providing its clients with the latest security solutions at competitive prices, supported by highly-trained systems integrators and operators. With the latest security technology, Professional Security Management Solutions reduce costs and more effectively protect people and property from harm. Integrator Support comprises security experts that are qualified to handle security-related incidents, reporting and system management, which allows clients to focus on their core business.

For security systems integrators, the advantages of becoming an Integrator Support Dealer include: continuous contact with customers for a strong, service-based relationship; the ability to differentiate from the competition by offering new, cutting-edge services; a complete dealer program for promoting the solutions, training staff and packaging equipment; and finally, the associated recurring monthly revenue.

Q: What types of managed services are included with Integrator Support?

Bill Bozeman: Integrator Support's Professional Security Management Solutions include: Professional Video Monitoring (by which alarms are managed in real time and the premises are monitored through surveillance video, making early detection and quick response a reality), and Cloud Access Control, as well as Mobile Video Monitoring, (which offer an online portal for system management, reporting and monitoring and virtualizes resources, location and connectivity, saving customers valuable time and overhead).

Q: How can Integrator Support help companies better their business?

Bill Bozeman: With PSA partner, Integrator Support LLC, programs and services you can build a company that increases in value and becomes a desirable acquisition target. PSA Education offers a variety of training programs on RMR generation as well as on the services and technologies that drives it. Integrator Support LLC delivers fast, portable, mobile, user friendly, effective, and easily managed solutions in a format that provides important data, quickly.

Q: Where do I go to find more information or to start using Business Solutions?

Bill Bozeman: To learn more about Integrator Support or any of the PSA Business Solutions programs, schedule a webinar demonstration, or to get signed up, simply visit www.buyPSA.com/Solutions, call 303-450-3461, or email Solutions@PSASecurity.com. Additionally, all of PSA's trusted providers of Business Solutions will be at PSA-TEC, exhibiting on Wednesday, May 16th. For the most up-to-date information on this event, visit www.psaTEC.com.

PSA Security Network’s Business Solutions is a suite of value-added products, services and programs that help security professionals be more competitive in the marketplace. In the coming months, PSA President and CEO Bill Bozeman will discuss a Business Solution in detail. By sharing these offerings Security Integrators, Manufacturers and even End-Users can learn ways to make their businesses more competitive. This month we’ll be focusing on Project Financing with Susquehanna Bank.

Q: Why should security professionals use Susquehanna Bank for project financing?

Bill Bozeman: Successful security integrators are looking for ways to increase repeat sales, foster ongoing relationships, and offer their customers a way to finance larger projects without breaking the bank. Project financing addresses all of these problems and will finance projects that other banks won’t at a rate that works for security integrators. PSA works closely with Susquehanna to help them understand the industry’s needs. Project Financing provides a financing solution that funds both hard and soft costs, helps PSA integrators close more, larger projects while maintain an ongoing conversation with customers, and helps protect margins and profitability.

Q: What are the key benefits to integrators and end-users?

Bill Bozeman: For integrators, the value of the funding is in competitive rates, bundle service options, quick and easy credit approval and documentation, customer protection from competition, and same day and Pre-funding. For end-users, competitive rates, quick and easy credit approvals and documentation, early payoff options and no upfront cash outlay arrangements are just some of the benefits.

Q: Where do I go to find more information or to start using Business Solutions?

Bill Bozeman: To learn more about Project Financing or any of the PSA Business Solutions programs, schedule a webinar demonstration, or to get signed up, simply visit www.buyPSA.com/Solutions , call 303-450-3461, or email Solutions@PSASecurity.com. Additionally, all of PSA's trusted providers of Business Solutions will be at  PSA-TEC 2013 , exhibiting on Wednesday, May 16th, 2013. For the most up-to-date information on this event, http://www.psaTEC.com .

Updated July 2012

PSA Security Network announced the date and location of its 2013 industry leading education and networking event, PSA-TEC. PSA-TEC offers physical security professionals the opportunity to earn or maintain industry credentials, as well as build their knowledge and professional network in business optimization and acumen, the latest technologies, managed services, leadership development, and much more. PSA-TEC 2013 will be held from May 6 -10, 2013, with the exhibit hall open on Wednesday, May 8, at the Westin Westminster in Westminster, Colorado. Early bird registration is set to begin on February 18, 2013 and end on April 19, 2013. “PSA-TEC is truly one-of-a-kind and is open to all security professionals, from the integrator to the end-user. The 2012 event exceeded the expectations of PSA-TEC attendees and event sponsors, and we fully expect PSA-TEC 2013 to continue the tradition of constant improvement,” stated Bill Bozeman, President and CEO of PSA Security Network. “We are proud to be able to bring together elite professionals and visionaries from the security industry to learn about the latest specialized technologies, industry developments, and business management techniques. There is something of value here for personnel at any level of the organization. For more information: http://www.buypsa.com/Education/PSA-TEC

PSA Security Network recently announced PSA Business Solutions, a suite of value-added products, services and programs to help security professionals be more competitive in the marketplace. All of PSA's trusted providers of Business Solutions will be at PSA-TEC, exhibiting on Wednesday, May 16th. PSA Security Network's Marketing Coordinator, Krista Ferndelli , answered the top questions about Business Solutions.

Q: What are PSA Business Solutions?

A: Business Solutions are programs that security professionals can implement for themselves or for their companies and staff to save money on operating costs, increase efficiencies, or just make day-to-day life a little easier. All of the programs are easily implemented and have expert contacts to help through the process of implementation.

Q: Why did PSA Security Network create the Business Solutions program?

A: Because PSA wants to be a partner in the security industry. We provide tools, resources, and information that help our owners and customers with all areas of their lives and business. We are a true cooperative, and in the spirit of helping people, we continue to seek new ways to add value. We're not just a distributor of equipment, although we continue to do that, and do it well.

Q: What types of resources are available through Business Solutions?

A: Business Solutions offers resources for everything; including discounted business supplies and equipment; business management, proposal and estimation software; equipment financing tools; website search and database applications; legal assistance programs and tools; remote guarding and remotely managed access control; market research and consultancy; and staff recruitment, hiring and compensation program assistance.

Q: What's in it for me?

A: Cost savings on day-to-day expenses, enhanced personal and team performance, increased cash flow, optimized business processes, and more-and bigger-projects, to name just a few.

Q: What will Business Solutions cost me?

A: Each solution offers different terms and is customized for your business needs.

Q: Do I have to take advantage of ALL offerings to take advantage of ANY of them?

A: No-each Business Solution is built as a stand-alone offering. However, you could take advantage of more than one, or the entire suite if you wish, and several of these services work very nicely together depending on your business objectives and needs.

Q: Where do I go to find more information or to start using Business Solutions?

A: Visit www.buyPSA.com/Solutions, call 303-450-3461, or email mailto:Solutions@PSASecurity.com.

SecurityStockWatch.com: What is PSA Leadership Institute?

Bill Bozeman: PSA Leadership Institute is a resource; a collection of videos, webinars, books, articles, and activities designed to improve leadership skills. Consider it a leadership toolbox. All offerings are pre-screened for quality and packaged to guide users in the quest to become a better leader, to enhance professional, team and company performance and positively impact personal relationships.

Bill Bozeman: PSA understands that good leadership skills are essential at every level of every organization. We are all experiencing increased pressure to deliver results with diminishing resources. We also understand that there are challenges for the busy security professional, such as determining where to begin, what materials are the best, how to stay on track, and how to find the time to pursue better leadership skills. Since PSA truly wants to be a partner in the security industry-to offer resources our industry needs, in a format that is easy to use-offering leadership resources is a natural fit. The materials we share are high-quality, are applicable to everyone, and we package them in digestible segments for the security professional to work into their busy day-to-day schedule.

Bill Bozeman: Just one example of the programming offered is the "Becoming a Person of Influence" webinar series. This is a 3 session package-each webinar is about 30 minutes -and it includes a free copy of John C. Maxwell's book, "The 21 Irrefutable Laws Of Leadership" and free downloadable access to the Becoming a Person of Influence Workbook, the resource used in the webinar series. The first two sessions are already recorded and ready for viewing. The third session will happen on January 18th, so anyone who wishes to catch up on the sessions prior to the final installment can visit the site at their convenience to do so. This webinar series is completely open to all security professionals at no cost. Opting in to receive consistent PSA Leadership Institute information is also completely free.

Bill Bozeman: Visit buyPSA.com and click the opt-in button to sign up today, to ensure receipt of the latest resources, tips and information, as well as invitations to programs and educational opportunities.

Updated November 14, 2011

PSA Security Network® (PSA), announces the appointment of Krista Ferndelli as Marketing Coordinator. Ms. Ferndelli will be responsible for adding value to PSA Security Network's owners through PSA's Business Solutions programs, and increasing PSA's brand awareness through a variety of marketing channels.

"I am thrilled about joining PSA," says Ferndelli. "PSA's Business Solutions will help make PSA owners and customers more competitive in their respective markets, and I am excited to be a part of the implementation."

Ferndelli brings 10 years of marketing experience to her new position. Prior to joining PSA, she was the North American Director of Marketing and Sales Support for Travelex, a global provider of foreign currency exchange. She was also previously the Chief Marketing Officer for Denver Community Credit Union, responsible for the marketing, business development, education and community outreach initiatives for the credit union. For more information, please click here. Please also see the PSA archive for Press Releases here.

Updated October 4, 2011

PSA Security Network® (PSA), the world’s largest electronic security cooperative representing security system integrators, to promote training and credentialing for the electronic safety and security systems industry has partnered with BICSI, the association supporting the information technology systems (ITS) industry with information, education and knowledge assessment.

Electronic safety and security technology is rapidly evolving and has integrated beyond the network grid. Fast-paced change, coupled with the need for industry professionals who have the educational knowledge about the entire industry, has led to the partnership between BICSI and PSA. BICSI’s premier security credential, the Electronic Safety and Security (ESS) Designer, is of particular importance in assisting with providing security, protection and life safety-based systems. ESS Designers are at the forefront of IP Convergence, IP Video Surveillance, Access Control and Intrusion Detection Systems.

“This partnership is an essential step toward increasing the visibility and knowledge of both organizations’ education, training and credentialing in the field of electronic safety and security,” said BICSI president Brian Hansen, RCDD, NTS, CSI. “BICSI is eager to work closely with PSA in the coming months to accomplish that goal.”

“We are delighted to have a partnership with BICSI,” stated PSA’s president and CEO, Bill Bozeman, CPP, CHS. “Our integrators are focusing more and more on network-based technology, and the educational advantages BICSI has to offer in this space are second to none. We look forward to working with BICSI to accelerate our security integrators’ capabilities and success in network-driven technology deployments. For more information, please click here. Please also see the PSA archive for Press Releases here.

Updated August 2011

It is extremely important for integrators to know those entities who specify projects in their market area. In addition to maintaining awareness of both existing and forthcoming projects, an integrator can establish his organization as a valuable resource to the specifier. The integrator can provide not only advice on design approaches and areas for cost savings, but also valuable feedback on product capability, field experience, and manufacturer support. As the integrator becomes established as a trusted resource to the specifier, opportunities for enhanced project visibility and participation are possible.

I'm happy to report that there is now a great resource for integrators, suppliers, and end users to identify Specifiers in a geographic area or market sector,SecuritySpecifiers.com . Through a complete database, integrators are able to gain enhanced knowledge for each project. Specifiers will assess the project facility; determine what products are needed, and give advice on design approaches, all while finding areas of cost savings.

PSA has partnered with SecuritySpecifiers.com because we believe in the value that it provides to our industry. In addition we've negotiated some bonus features if you go through PSA to obtain your subscription to SecuritySpecifiers.com .

PSA Integrators receive special PSA pricing on Full Access searches in addition to having a priority in the construction of integrator-specific web pages on the SecuritySpecifiers.com website. Through PSA management, integrators have a significant voice in the direction and services that SecuritySpecifiers.com offers, and because of our strong involvement with SecuritySpecifiers.com , industry specifiers will increasingly realize the level of professionalism and knowledge fostered by PSA in its integrator members. Get started now!

I'm pleased to announce PSA Business Solutions (formerly known as Value Added Services) offers a variety of opportunities to enhance your business success.

Included in PSA's Business Solutions are: Project Financing from Susquehanna Bank, WeSuite's estimating software, SecuritySpecifiers.com, PSA Perks business savings, SystemsPlus insurance, iQCatalog, The Receivables Exchange, and Integrator Support offering managed services.

Project financing from Susquehanna Bank fits each individual integrator's needs and provides monthly payments for the end user. The financing program also allows integrators to start their own RMR program within six months with the ability to add on equipment and keep up with technologies.

WeSuite's business management software was designed by security and alarm integrators for security and alarm integrators. Keep your finger on the pulse of your company with detailed one touch reports about leads, proposals and installations all on one screen.

SecuritySpecifiers.com provides integrators the ability to search the most complete database in the industry for security specifiers (consultants and engineering firms) in their market area. Successful integrators in the security industry understand the importance of effectively engaging with those firms and individuals who design systems and write bid specifications for them. Access to the database may be enabled through annual subscription or one-time search fee.

PSA Perks is a host of business offerings and services from ADP, Sprint, UPS, Grainger, OfficeMax, AIP, Monster, and much more.


SystemsPlus provides ways members can save money on their insurance premiums and stabilize health insurance costs. Three independent solutions work together to manage the risks associated with doing business in the commercial electronic systems industry. Coverage includes: Health Solutions, Property & Casualty Solutions and Surety Solutions.


iQCatalogs is an online product catalog consisting of manufacturers and their products that your company is authorized to represent and it's automatically updated and maintained by those manufacturers and iQ. Whether you are a Vendor Partner or a PSA Member you can have your own catalog too!


Take control of cash flow with The Receivables Exchange, the real-time online marketplace for working capital that lets you sell your invoices to qualified buyers and get cash fast. PSA members and customers can apply today to join the Exchange. Post your invoice. Set your terms. Get your money.


You want to make money every month, right? Integrator Support helps you do just that. By helping you discover your recurring revenue model, you can make sure that your company stays afloat during rough economic times. Generating recurring monthly revenue (RMR) through managed services offerings include remote video monitoring, hosted access control, video business intelligence, and project financing.


All of PSA's Business Solutions were chosen to offer diverse, yet profitable programs to help each PSA integrator run a smooth business, and in turn provides the end user with the best service in the security industry.

To get more information on PSA Business Solutions go to buyPSA.com/Solutions

Updated July 2011

PSA-TEC 2011 Post Show Highlights, By Pixel, PSA Resident Fox
Whether you were there to witness it, or you heard from peers, PSA-TEC 2011 was a great educational and networking experience for all show attendees.

A highlight of this week was the non-biased education sessions offered at PSA-TEC. This year, TEC offered over 16 education sessions while some consisted of vendor neutral panel formats. These education sessions were not product centric, but educated attendees about the nuances of technology and system applications in general.
For the first time, PSA-TEC offered Continuing Education Credits by partnering with ASIS and BICSI, allowing attendees to maintain their certifications, but at the same time benefiting from various training topics. PSA-TEC also offered manufacturer and management certifications.

Tuesday, PSA recognized our suppliers who provide PSA with the best service and quality products during the Vendor Appreciation Awards Luncheon. The Super Star Award was awarded to Altronix, CSC, and Exacq.
On Wednesday of PSA-TEC, 111 exhibitors from around the country set up their booths to network and provide attendees with new products and company news during the Trade Show Exhibit Hall. For example, Ascendance Wireless launched its new product, SecureLINX.

Another highlight of Wednesday’s event was the truck exhibits from Bosch, Pelco, Assa Abloy, and Flir, parked outside the Westin Westminster Convention Hall.

The networking events offered at PSA-TEC allowed attendees to get to know their peers, while making connections for future business activities. Networking events provided at TEC included the Welcome Reception, which kicked off the week with a welcome from Bill Bozeman, president and CEO and Mike Koeblin, Chairman. Hospitality Suites and Jam Session provided a fun Tuesday night for PSA-TEC attendees to watch PSA members and non-members “jam” out on their musical instruments. Wednesday featured Paul Soniat’s Piano Night and a Bowling Tournament ended the week of successful networking opportunities.

“The PSA TEC was fantastic and a first class event. From the quality of the dealers attending, the facilities, courses, presentations,” said Mauricio Velasco, National Account Manager of Interlogix, “The event was very well organized and I am glad we were one of the Gold Sponsors. Thanks again to you and to the entire PSA team for having us and be part of this great conference.” PSA Security Network thanks all attendees for a great TEC 2011 and look forward to seeing everyone next year for another great show! For information about PSA-TEC 2012 please www.psaTEC.com

SecurityStockWatch.com: PSA-TEC 2011 is right around the corner.  What is new with this year’s program?

Bill Bozeman: For over 30 years PSA Security Network has hosted PSA-TEC. This year PSA-TEC we offer hundreds of hours of education and networking, focusing on Business Optimization, Physical Security, IT and Managed Services.  The Managed Services track is new for 2011, primarily to highlight the importance of this business model for the future of the physical security community.  Additionally, this year we have the Technology Showcase with the latest products from select PSA Vendor Partners.

SecurityStockWatch.com: I believe that PSA-TEC 2011 also changed locations this year?

Bill Bozeman: Yes, I’m happy to announce that PSA-TEC 2011 will be returning home to Colorado this year.  We felt that it was important to have the entire event all under one roof to retain the intimacy of previous events.

Please join me May 16 - 20, 2011 in Westminster, Colorado and get the training you and your staff need to meet the everyday challenges and succeed in the security industry.  Register at www.psaTEC.com.

Updated October 4, 2010

Bill Bozeman: PSA continues to focus on providing multiple benefits to security integrators that are not found in their entirety elsewhere. The newest additions are strategic Corporate Partners which round out the service offering to support our network such as: estimating software developed by WeSuite, Project Financing Program provided by Susquehanna Bank, and a full insurance offering from SystemsPlus. We’ve also recently added AVAD as a Vendor Partner which provides us with a full line of commercial sound products and will be launching our new online store buyPSA.com November 1st.

Bill Bozeman: buyPSA.com has over 100,000 products from more than 250 Vendor Partners. The robust advanced searching capabilities and access to more account data than ever before will provide a better shopping experience and enable our members and customers to be more informed about their orders. If you are a current PSA member or registered customer I encourage you to please visit buyPSA.com to experience the new store.

Bill Bozeman: Physical security integrators (integrators who specialize in the design, installation and maintenance of video surveillance, control access and the associated support peripherals) are in a dynamic change mode that is more aggressive than any I have seen in my 30 years in the business. Equipment margins continue to drop and I do not see a margin recovery. Security integrators who succeed going forward are developing a business model that does not derive the majority of profitability from selling equipment.

Most of the larger national integrators realized the model change years ago and have modified their services accordingly. Most if not all have added a managed services focus that includes remote video monitoring, managed access control and remote s/w diagnostics. These services improve cash flow predictability, profitability and customer satisfaction.

Unfortunately many of the local and regional security integrators continue to stick to the equipment based profitability model. Time will tell but it seems logical that this model will make profitability and growth very difficult.

The good news for the local and regional integrators is that wholesale services are now available to the smaller (2- 25m) integrators allowing them to participate in a managed services business model.

SecurityStockWatch.com: Thank you for joining us today, Bill. Please give us an overview of your background and a brief history of PSA Security Network^® .

Bill Bozeman: I am a 30 year veteran of the electronic security business. I have owned and operated a Gulf Coast based systems integration company specializing in industrial and government projects that was sold to Pinkerton. I also owned 3 different alarm companies that were sold to various RMR acquirers. I joined PSA 9 years ago as a division president and was later named CEO. Immediately prior to my employment with PSA I served as Vice president of strategic alliances for Pinkerton.

PSA is a 34 year old electronic security cooperative currently supporting over 300 physical security integrators in all 50 states and Canada. PSA supplies its integrators with cutting edge hardware, software, training, financing and other industry specific business tools that allow them to increase efficiencies and profitability.

SecurityStockWatch.com: As the worldwide financial crisis continues, what is your perspective on the market drivers for electronic security solutions at the present time? Are things getting better out there in the field for your members?

Bill Bozeman : The majority of our integrators focus on the commercial, industrial and government segments of the physical security space; consequently they have been impacted less severely than those who focus on the retail or residential security markets. We were pleased to see a pick up in revenue in the last quarter of 2009. It’s too early to evaluate 2010 but we remain cautiously optimistic.

SecurityStockWatch.com: Please give us a profile of PSA Security Network members….who are they…what do they do? What are the benefits of membership?

Bill Bozeman: PSA integrators run the spectrum from small 3 million dollar companies to the largest providers of physical security services in the world. We have no typical integrator. The smaller integrators see PSA’s value differently that the larger and mid sized integrators. It’s our job as managers to assure we provide value to all sized physical security integrators. One commonality all our integrators share is their focus is on video surveillance, controlled access and the peripherals associated with sophisticated electronic security systems.

PSA provides multiple benefits to security integrators that are not found in their entirety elsewhere. Benefits include top notch training, 200 cutting edge physical security hardware and software solutions, generous credit lines, extended terms, industry G2, national account lead sharing, technical committee evaluations, leadership education and training, business acumen education, industry metric information specific to our niche and of course the very best networking and information sharing in our industry.

SecurityStockWatch.com: Are there any special upcoming events you’d like to mention?

Bill Bozeman : Ask anyone who has ever attended PSA-TEC and they will tell you it’s a “must do”. Three tracks offer over a hundred classes over a five day period covering business optimization, technical training a certifications and IT education and certification. TEC is an amazing conference and has consistently improved over its 30 year history.

PSA-TEC is on May 24-28^th and is located at the Rosemont Center directly across from O’Hare Airport in Chicago. PSA-TEC is open to all security industry professionals.

SecurityStockWatch.com: Thanks again for joining us today, Bill.  Are there any other subjects you'd like to discuss?

Bill Bozeman:  The changing business model for the traditional security integrator is a subject that both fascinates and scares me at the same time. This subject can be picked up in our next conversation as there is no simple, quick statement that summarizes the dilemma.