Developing a white-label security system and smart home platform

The first unique hardware-software integration, that combines home security technologies with smart home solutions.

The client and the market context of the white label security system

In 2011 security solutions were outstanding in terms of home alarm capabilities, but the systems did not include smart home features. At the time of the launch of smart home systems, insurance companies and other market players did not accept these systems as complete security solutions. Our client was a Scandinavian wholesale network specialized in distribution and installation of security devices, and its goal was to develop a comprehensive hardware-software solution that would connect existing, well-functioning and audited security systems with smart home technologies. Moreover, they intended to offer a modern digitization and integration solution for older security systems, even those already integrated into buildings. The company entrusted us with the development, delivery and operation of this product.

In addition, our client’s primary goal was to be able to sell the solution as a “white label” product to insurance companies and smaller security technology companies.

The project’s goal- creating a white label security system and smart home platform with integrated solutions

The developed product is a smart home platform integrating security hardware of different manufacturers and connecting additional local devices, which includes such mobile apps and web/administrative solutions that did not previously exist on the market. The system can fully cover a given area or building, while adding smart home features to the existing security system. The platform can be managed with a mobile application. The development started in 2011 when this kind of hardware-software solution was considered unique on the market.

During the project, our main tasks included IoT (Internet of Things) device related development and integration, architectural activities, software design and development, delivery of integration solutions, and planning/operating/monitoring/logging of operating environment. Originally, our operating solution was developed in accordance with the ITIL recommendations, then further developed according to local regulations, and later to GDPR.

Challenges

One of the main difficulties in product development was the lack of generally available integration solutions at that time, like Matter today. For example, the ONVIF standards applied only to security cameras, so we could not adapt it fully. Security systems are typically embedded, low-resource, closed systems that could only be modified with special development methods and at special permissions. To gain necessary access to all systems to be integrated we had to negotiate with numerous manufacturers and distributors.

The next challenge was to develop such software that could run on central hubs, even though these devices were not originally designed for that purpose. In addition, we had to create such development and delivery processes (CICD) that ensured our client’s customer service needs. We practically developed and operated a central system, but at the same time we provided users with the opportunity to create a unique image and functions using “white label” mobile platforms. In this way we have created a hybrid multi-tenant software architecture.

Solution and result

We developed and operated the product from 2011 to 2021 and during this time we provided our customer with a hardware-software solution that met industry standards and combined security solutions with smart home functions. This innovation was a pioneer in its time, as a similar product had not previously existed on the market.

Contact us

We're eager to hear from you and ready to turn your ideas into reality.

We can help you.

Contact us.

We're eager to hear from you and ready to turn your ideas into reality.