We spend a lot of time talking about the cloud, or the Internet of Things (IoT) as broad concepts, but sometimes blaze right past the individual devices that can help make your workplace a more efficient and secure one. In a modern Office environment, there are more tools than ever before to make your job more enjoyable and orderly. Tools designed to streamline time-consuming tasks leave you free to get a jump on that next project, or free up enough time so you’re not rushing through lunch to get back to the grind. Some of these smart-devices even keep your office more secure, so you don’t have to worry about potentially sensitive information falling into the wrong hands. With so many devices and gadgets designed to make your work life a little easier, we thought we’d compile a few of the more interesting ones that you can use right now to help bring your workplace into the twenty-first century. These are our top-five devices to help smarten up your office.

5. Hardware Encrypted Storage

This device speaks to the Security fanatic in us. Often, when saving something to an external hard-drive, we can forget to encrypt our files to restrict access from anyone who may end up with our storage device. Hardware encrypted hard disk drives (HDD) or solid-state drives (SSD) like these remove all guess work by adding a physical pin-pad right to the drive itself, making it impossible for someone to access unless they know the code. If you’re storing any kind of sensitive information externally, these drives are a must, as they add one extra layer of security to your data.

4. People Counter

Want to make your retail workplace smarter? Keeping track of the number of people walking in and out of your store has always been an integral part of loss-prevention and data collection to discover when your hours of peak performance are, but People Counter offers accurate indoor counting with easy to read analytics. People Counter offers bi-directional counting, meaning you’ll have an accurate read on high-traffic times in your retail environment. You’ll know when to staff up, and when the down-times are in your store, so not only will your counting system be smarter, you can manage smarter as well. The system will generate easy-to-read reports directly through Microsoft Excel and can be checked on through an onsite CCTV system which will also provide a video record should an incident occur at your business.

3. IP Speaker System

An IP (Internet Protocol) Speaker System allows for a host of features to surpass your current speaker setup. IP Speakers can be integrated into your current VOIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) system to separate paging and delivery of specific audio to as few or as many speakers as you like. These systems are ideal for many workplaces, from schools to hospitals to shopping malls. Even smaller offices can make use of an IP speaker system if scheduled messages need to be distributed to the entire staff, or if a select group of people in one room need to be notified of pressing business. Plus, as different areas of a business often suit different needs, an IP Speaker System can be used to play different music in desired locations.  An IP Speaker System makes control of audio in your building incredibly flexible.

One of our suppliers, Axis Communications, has done a great job through this video of explaining just how this concept can work.

2. Smart Thermostat and Sensors

Are things running a little hot in your office? a smart thermostat can help you regulate just that. Smart thermostats allow you to program temperatures for certain times of the day, ensuring that everyone will be comfortable as long as they’re in the office. Add temperature sensors to the equation, and you’re able to monitor the temperature of whatever room you inhabit. No more scheduling a long meeting in the freezing conference room. Plus, smart thermostats, like: the Ecobee 4, Nest Thermostat, and Honeywell Comfort System, allow you to adjust the temperature over the internet, and some will even provide notifications if your HVAC system needs maintenance or repairs.

1. Network Connected Security Cameras

Maybe we’re a little biased, but we think that this is a must for any business. Having a video record of who is accessing your property and when can be vital should an incident occur at your business. Not only are security cameras a preventative measure, but with security features like those offered by the Hikvision Performance series of cameras, detecting someone who shouldn’t be on your premises is easier than ever. Plus, with cloud services like that offered by our partners at Alarm.com you’re able to check into your security footage from wherever you are via a mobile app on your phone or tablet.

There’s never been a more enjoyable time to be at work. With so many devices designed to make your work life more convenient and enjoyable, antiquated and time-consuming tasks are basically a thing of the past. Even something like making a pot of coffee can be relegated to a machine that will make you the perfect brew exactly when you want it. It’s even better then, when these devices can also add a layer of security to your office. If you’d like to talk to us about making your workplace a smarter one, send us a message using the form below, or call us at 1-888-789-3437.