In a recent conversation with Dan Ferrisi, group director of content + editorial, industrial + tech, for Emerald, Maureen Carlson, co-founder and president of System Surveyor, discussed the pivotal role of open system design platforms in advancing the physical security industry.
She highlighted how System Surveyor provides a collaborative, cloud-based platform that streamlines the entire process, from initial site survey to a proposal-ready design. This benefits systems integrators, manufacturers and end users alike.
Carlson emphasized that the platform’s power lies in its openness, which she defined across four key pillars. The first is being open to diverse system types, allowing users to design for video surveillance, access control, cabling and intrusion detection, all in one place.
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The second is being brand-agnostic. “We’re open to any kind of manufacturer’s product,” says Carlson in the conversation with Ferrisi. “We’ve got more than two dozen manufacturers that now make their product catalogs almost like a plug-in and then available to System Surveyor.”
The third pillar is openness for collaboration. Carlson noted this feature has spurred growth in unexpected ways, with integrators, manufacturers and end users working together seamlessly on the platform.
The final pillar is the ability to integrate with other business applications via API, streamlining workflows without attempting to replace existing CRM or ERP systems.
How Can Integrators Scale Their Businesses Profitably?
Discussing broader industry trends, Carlson pointed to the need for integrators to scale their businesses profitably. Accuracy from the very first site visit is critical to avoid costly mistakes like return truck rolls. She stressed the importance of delivering on the promise of technology, especially with the rise of artificial intelligence (AI).
“If the pixels aren’t on target — aren’t correct — it’s possible that the AI is not going to be able to do whatever we need it to do,” she says. This focus on accurate design ensures that the technology can effectively enhance the safety of people and places.
Ultimately, Carlson sees the System Surveyor platform as a tool for visualization and engagement, helping non-technical stakeholders understand their investment. “It used to be on a yellow pad, and it can’t be on a yellow pad anymore,” she said. “They want to be involved. They want to know what they’re investing in.”
To hear more of Maureen Carlson’s insights on leveraging open platforms to meet the evolving needs of the physical security market, watch the full interview in the embedded video below.
Another version of this article originally appeared on our sister-site Security Sales & Integration on Dec. 3, 2025. It has since been updated for Commercial Integrator’s audience.
