How I Use My System: Richard Hill

Richard Hill was recently promoted to the role of chief marketing officer of DEFENDERS in December 2016. He joined the company in 2014 as its director of marketing. Security Systems News talked with Hill about his home security system.

What kind of system do you have?

We just recently changed our system. I have a next-gen Qolsys panel. And within the system we have two cameras, [about] a half dozen light units [and] sensors throughout the house.

Why this particular setup?

DEFENDERS is always looking at the latest technology. We've been talking with the folks at Qolsys through our DSC relationship. … I was really interested in their panel and they asked if I'd be interested in being a test-home for some of their latest technologies.

What is one aspect of your security system that you wouldn't want to live without?

We have the system for two reasons: preventative, from the security perspective, and some level of control in automation. From a preventative perspective: [the ability to] arm while we're home, and the fact that we can do that with multiple devices. From an automation perspective, probably all of our light modules, to be able to set those on and off at certain times, whether we're home or away.

Where do you see security going next? What are some big trends?

The intuitive nature [and] the consumer interface. I think consumers are so savvy because of the smart devices … and their expectations are [for] something that may be very complex, very simple to use, and works. I'm encouraged by the improvements in technology. From a mobile platform perspective, and the actual panels in the home, [we] are fulfilling that same type of customer expectation.