Case Study: Slippery Rock University

Solving Security Complexity Across Campus

Slippery Rock University is home to more than 8,600 students and includes over 1,280 dorm rooms across 16 buildings. As the campus grew, so did the demands of its security infrastructure. Over the years, multiple integrators installed various systems, creating a patchwork of technologies and providers. This fragmented approach made it difficult to manage security effectively and created challenges that affected both efficiency and peace of mind. The result was:

• Operational inefficiency: staff had to learn and manage three different access control systems while coordinating with multiple providers
• No single point of accountability: multiple vendors handled service and upgrades
• Outdated and inconsistent technology: systems varied in age and lacked interoperability

Building on our long-standing relationship providing video surveillance, we partnered with the university to consolidate its systems under a single integrator.

Crafting the Solution

TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS

The project required deep knowledge of existing installations to bridge legacy hardware and new technology. We needed a solution that could:

• Work with existing access-control devices
• Provide centralized management that can scale across campus
• Support future upgrades without requiring wholesale hardware replacement

TECHNICAL CHALLENGES & SOLUTIONS

The project required us to navigate both logistical hurdles and technical complexities, including:

• Time constraints and sourcing: Each building required a unique design. By conducting thorough site walks and design consultations upfront, we reduced delays during implementation.
• Architectural specifications: We reviewed and adjusted original security designs to
  recommend more effective technology.

INTEGRATION & EXECUTION

Slippery Rock University decided to standardize its access control system with one single
technology partner, chosen for its reliability, robust features, and proven track record in
government and higher education. Our team was able to upgrade the university’s head-end and software without replacing most field devices. This minimized disruption, reduced costs, and allowed for a smoother transition from the multiple legacy systems to one unified platform. With regular updates and dependable technical support, the platform delivers both strong immediate performance and long-term scalability.

In addition to new installations, we resolved long-standing projects that had remained incomplete under previous integrators. By quickly closing these gaps, we built further trust with the university’s leadership and demonstrated our ability to deliver results.

Wireless Locking: Slippery Rock also wanted to modernize its dorm security, so we introduced wireless locking systems. We collaborated closely with the vendor to design and implement the system, beginning with one pilot site. The wireless locks, supported by ceiling-mounted communication hubs, offered a scalable and flexible solution that is easily expandable.

Enhanced Video Surveillance: We also improved video coverage across campus, deploying over 800 cameras including new multi-sensor cameras. These allow broader coverage with fewer devices, reducing cabling, installation time, and maintenance requirements while improving visibility and efficiency for campus security staff.

The Impact

The project transformed Slippery Rock University’s security operations. What had once been three separate access control systems is now a single, robust platform that’s easier to manage and expand. Dorm security was significantly improved with the introduction of wireless locking systems, with plans to extend across campus.

Operational efficiency also increased, as the university now benefits from a single point of
accountability. With one integrator responsible for installation, service, and ongoing maintenance,  security staff can focus more on protecting students and less on troubleshooting systems.

The success of this initiative led Slippery Rock University to designate us as their preferred security partner. Beyond security, we also installed live sound reinforcement at the football stadium and softball field, as well as complete sound and AV systems in the performing arts complex. With a modern access control system, more than 800 next-generation surveillance  cameras, and upgraded sound and AV systems, the university now has a reliable, scalable, and future-ready infrastructure to support its growing campus.