Written by Salvatore Ingui EBP, APC Hospitality, LLC

This article was originally published in the CAI-NJ December issue of Community Trends

AI is artificial intelligence, a fairly old yet recently mastered technological advancement, that when utilized properly, creates a huge convenience and benefit. With roots dating back to the mid-1950’s, original AI introduction bares very little similarity to the modern era AI boom. Modern AI incorporates technology to replicate or enhance human input, involvement and performance. From the standpoint of a security director, it is in our best interest to embrace AI and train our security personnel on the value and availability of the technology when its available, then implement AI in conjunction with the human element to create a safe, secure community association living experience.

AI can appear very intricate, confusing, intimidating and overwhelming for homeowners’ associations (HOAs). For purpose of this article, we will attempt to keep it simple. Until recently, we have predominantly relied upon the human component in the form of security personnel to satisfy safety and security needs. This concentration requires consistent, quality performance based on well-trained, experienced personnel. When this expectation falls short, vulnerabilities arise. These vulnerabilities can be costly or worse, dangerous. Presently, with the proficiency of AI, we can now bridge the gap created by deficiencies and shortcomings in human performance to create a well-rounded security function.

AI comes in various forms. In regard to safety and security, the intent of utilizing AI is to make the security function pre-emptive, thorough and more efficient while limiting the negative effects of human error or complacency. A basic, yet crucial example of safety and security is having the capability of enhancing and creating a strong perimeter for your community with the help of AI. AI technologies such as surveillance cameras, thermal, infrared and motion sensors, and sensor lighting help strengthen the outer perimeter of a community. Access control devices such as electronic entry gates, license plate readers, fobs, keycards, keypads and security cameras with audio capabilities monitor, allow or deny access and in turn, avoid perimeter breaches, unauthorized access or intrusion. This further strengthens the extremely important perimeter.

Another simple example of AI technology is the utilization of a checkpoint monitoring system within the community. By using a cellular telephone or RFID (Radio Frequency IDentification) transmitter or wand and checkpoint tags, this technology is utilized by security personnel and can be incorporated into security personnel daily tasks or function. This is also identified as doing “rounds” and checking particular points of interest within the community. Software associated to this technology also provides a detailed report monitoring the rounds and memorizing specific times these checkpoints are visited.

Alarm systems are also now introducing AI into their hardware. In addition to previously mentioned features like motion sensors, even false alarms are now able to be quickly identified as false alarms, without involvement or response from either law enforcement or security personnel.

Package delivery and handling within community association living have increased dramatically in the last ten years with the increased presence of Amazon, Uber Eats, Insta-cart and similar style delivery services. AI obviously plays a pivotal role in the order and delivery process, but also in the safety and security aspect of the community as a variety of vendors and delivery services employing unfamiliar faces are frequenting the property. The acceptance process when front desk staff or gate staff is involved in identifying, monitoring, logging, and informing residents of their package deliveries may also utilize AI technology in clearing, checking in and making notifications to residents that their packages have arrived, are legitimate, safe, and are available for pick-up. The temporary storage of these packages in monitored, secured storage rooms also incorporates AI technology in the form of security cameras and access control.

These are just a few simple examples of AI, how it has gradually infiltrated the safety and security function, enhanced it and how it has benefited community association living. Other examples such as AI involvement in cyber security advancements are more complex. Visitor Management Systems have also integrated a bit more sophisticated and extremely efficient AI analytics in the form of Biometric Authentication (i.e., voice, facial, fingerprint, iris and retina recognition), Behavioral Analytics (i.e., loiterers, routine vs. suspicious activity, etc.), Object Detection or Recognition (i.e., human, animal, vehicle, weapon, etc.). Some of these AI technologies may appear to be a bit more intrusive a privacy concerns. They may also be costly.

We would be remis to ignore the cost associated to AI offered technology. Security hardware, software, applications and cloud space may become rather expensive, especially when coupled with the expense of security personnel. HOAs very rarely have unlimited cashflow at their disposal and are often limited by budgetary constraints. Prioritizing and identifying specific AI technology that would benefit the community most should be considered. Gradually implementing various forms of AI technology is another cost-effective strategy and should also be considered. Ignoring the existence of AI technology and eliminating it from consideration should not be the answer. Cost associated with AI technology must be considered a long-term investment. It is recommended for HOAs to weigh their options and determine if their return on investment outweighs the alternative of not utilizing AI. There is no price tag on a comfortable sense of safety and security, a low crime rate and a decrease of incidences in general. But, when these factors result in an enhanced image and reputation to the community along with an increase in property value, your return on investment is indirectly and positively affected.

In closing, there is no debate that AI has positively influenced the safety and security function. There also need not be a debate about transitioning entirely to AI and eliminating the human component. The human component is extremely integral to the success of a well-rounded security operation. The effective approach is to incorporate this technology alongside the knowledge and expertise of trained security personnel. This combined strategy can enhance efficiency, strengthen overall performance, and support improved safety and security within community association living.