Enhancing Security for the department of Public Prosecution Service of Canada

The Security Team at the Public Prosecution Service of Canada (PPSC), responsible for managing a vast network of multiple sites across the country, faced the daunting challenge of modernizing its security operations. With outdated and fragmented systems in place, they struggled to maintain a cohesive security strategy across multiple sites. Recognizing the need for a unified and scalable solution, they sought a partner capable of integrating diverse security technologies while providing reliable support and innovation.

Wavestore, with its extensive experience in delivering robust security solutions, emerged as the ideal partner. Known for their client-centric approach and advanced Video Management Software (VMS), Wavestore offered a comprehensive solution that promised to enhance security operations and streamline management. Once Wavestore was selected, the partnership began with a thorough assessment of PPSC’s existing infrastructure, identifying key areas where improvements could be made.

This case study explores how Wavestore's tailored solution not only addressed the immediate security challenges faced by PPSC but also laid the groundwork for a more secure and resilient future. By leveraging cutting-edge technology and a deep understanding of the client's unique needs, Wavestore played a crucial role in transforming PPSC’s security landscape.

Situation

PPSC’s security infrastructure was a complex mosaic of legacy systems, each with limited interoperability. This fragmentation resulted in a somehow inefficient monitoring and delayed responses to potential threats, posing potentially significant risks to the safety of critical sites. Additionally, the existing systems lacked the flexibility to accommodate the evolving security landscape, making it difficult to integrate new technologies or scale operations as required.

PPSC was dealing with older systems across 34 different locations, each with its own access control and VMS systems. Eric Marcil, Acting Chief Security Officer with the Public Prosecution Service of Canada, in an interview with Wavestore, provided insight into the challenges they faced: "We had very old systems within most of our locations across Canada. Many  had different access control/alarm/CCTV systems. Sometimes  not even the same. In each location, we had one contractor for access control, one contractor for the old alarm systems, one contractor for every single VMS and CCTV locally. It just made no sense".

The need for a cost-effective yet comprehensive solution was paramount, as was the ability to achieve compliance with the Canadian government security standards and protocols. Moreover, PPSC was under pressure to ensure that any new system would be future-proof, providing a robust framework that could support ongoing advancements in security technology. The goal was not just to address immediate vulnerabilities but to establish a long-term strategy that would enhance operational efficiency, reduce risks, and provide a scalable solution capable of growing with the government's needs.

"We also had the opportunity to see the demo live, seeing it first-hand from the manufacturer was a great deal as we usually rely on demos, on our security integrator and their expertise, and then your network”, Eric said, emphasizing the importance of reliable demonstrations and integrations in their decision-making process.

Solution

Wavestore's ability to integrate seamlessly with various security technologies already in place at the PPSC was one of the key factors in their selection. Eric emphasized, " Similar Companies to Wavestore did show us their products , but the reason Wavestore was chosen,  was because of the way that they developed their product, the integration of Wavestore with our current security infrastructure, including service we were already receiving from Wavestore,  and of course pricing as well".

Once they were selected, Wavestore's approach began with a detailed evaluation of the existing security systems, identifying key pain points and areas for improvement. The solution involved deploying Wavestore’s advanced Video Management Software (VMS), which offered a centralized platform for managing and monitoring security across all PPSC sites. This VMS provided seamless integration with existing systems, including legacy video surveillance and access control technologies, ensuring a smooth transition without disrupting ongoing operations. Eric elaborated, "So our requirements were for us to move away from the old standalone systems at each location. The different systems we had in place didn’t work for us anymore and the vision was to centralize our services and go to one platform”

The implementation also included the integration of cutting-edge video analytics, enabling real-time threat detection and automated responses to potential security breaches. This proactive approach not only enhanced PPSC ability to detect and respond to threats promptly but also reduced the reliance on manual monitoring, freeing up valuable resources for other critical tasks. Additionally, the system was designed to be scalable, allowing for easy expansion and the integration of new technologies as security needs evolved.

Success

The implementation of Wavestore’s VMS and integrated security solutions resulted in significant improvements in Public Prosecution Service of Canada security operations. One of the most notable outcomes was the enhanced situational awareness provided by the centralized platform, which allowed for real-time monitoring and quicker response times to potential threats. The transition to Wavestore's VMS also brought significant improvements in the efficiency and reliability of their  security operations. The centralized system allowed for better management and monitoring across multiple sites across the country.

The integration of advanced video analytics further amplified these benefits, enabling us to automate threat detection and response processes. This not only reduced the likelihood of human error but also improved the efficiency of security operations, allowing personnel to focus on more strategic tasks. The project also achieved a substantial reduction in operational costs by streamlining management, acquisitions and financial processes and reducing the need for multiple, disparate systems.

Feedback from PPSC was overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the seamless integration and the user-friendly nature of the new system. The success of this project has laid the foundation for future expansions, with plans to possibly extend Wavestore’s solutions to additional PPSC sites and to incorporate new security technologies as they become available. More generally, this partnership has set a new standard for government security, demonstrating the value of a comprehensive, integrated approach to managing complex security challenges.

Wavestore's comprehensive and customized VMS solution has transformed the security operations for PPSC, the partnership has not only addressed the immediate challenges but also set the stage for future advancements in their security strategy. With a robust, scalable, and integrated system in place, PPSC is now better equipped to safeguard its critical infrastructures and public services, ensuring the safety and security of its people, facilities and assets.