Video Analytics Solutions: A Boon During COVID-19

Take a look at some of the use cases to understand the extent of the positive impact made by video analytics

Cutting-edge technologies serve as the go-to solutions during any major disruptions and challenges — and the recent pandemic is no exception. Whether during the peak of a wave or as a measure to safely and efficiently resume operations, organizations all over the world are relying on remote work and monitoring technologies such as AI video analytics. Despite being a comparatively new technology, AI video analytics has opened a vista of nearly limitless possibilities across verticals and use cases. These solutions are now enabling compliance to standards and operational efficiency in a way that was humanly not possible.

Conventionally, CCTVs work as the eyes that see everything and store the visuals for later analysis, reference or simply to be deleted after a specific duration. Only in instances where a crime or an unfortunate event or violation of law takes place, the stored footage is used for investigation purposes. However, under normal circumstances, the humongous data volumes are of no use.

When the power of AI and advanced data analytics is leveraged to generate actionable insights from such data, it turns out to be a major boost. Top-of-the-line video analytics solutions can scan through several hours of footage in a matter of minutes and gleam desired information for analysis and process improvement. Let's take a look at some of the use cases to understand the extent of the positive impact made by video analytics.

Contact tracing

In the current scenario, this is one of the major ways in which the number of infections can be monitored and new ones prevented. This is where video analytics can make a breakthrough by enabling constant tracking of infected individuals through facial recognition and other aspects. When there is complete visibility of movement and actions, it will become easier to identify risks and prevent outbreaks.

COVID protocol adherence

As workplaces reopen, there is still a need for continuous monitoring and adherence of certain hygiene and social protocols such as social distancing, preventing crowds indoors, and monitoring of employees for symptoms of illness. Video analytics tools can monitor hygiene situations across the premises and alert housekeeping teams if a need for preventive cleaning is identified.

Managing occupancy

In times of a crisis like this, video analytics can help and empower organizations – both healthcare and otherwise – to continuously and effectively monitor occupancy. Be it the number of visitors or individuals in specific areas, the technology can enable monitoring of occupancy and ensure adherence to norms that are prescribed.

Not only this, video analytics abilities are helping in various other aspects of the business as well. Law enforcement agencies use facial recognition integrated cameras to identify suspects, and healthcare providers are using the technology for contact tracing of COVID-19 patients.

Avoiding crowds

One of the major reasons for a surge in infections is crowds – in any place. Video analytics can enable in the identification of hotspots and reduction of crowding especially in places where there is an absolute need to do so. For example, the technology can make it possible to determine the ideal number of occupants according to the area and capacity. When the crowd exceeds a required number, it can send a warning or alert to ensure there is no crowding.

When deployed effectively, modern video analytics solutions can resolve most of the challenges for public and business management. Today, they are helping in the continuation of commercial as well as social lives and preventing the Omicron wave from going out of control. In the future, the technology will be instrumental in preventing any other waves of COVID-19 or other contagions in India!

Author:

Abhijit Shabhag, President and CEO of Graymatics