Simple, Powerful, Affordable, Reliable: VIAAS Provides a Complete Cloud-Based Video Surveillance Solution To Commercial, Education and Government Customers

Founded in 2008, VIAAS is an integrated cloud-based video surveillance service provider, selling turn-key solutions to commercial customers (SMB to Enterprise) through channel partners, VAR’s and systems integrators. VIAAS video surveillance as a service (VSaaS) was launched initially under Barracuda Networks ownership and was spun out as a new corporation (VIAAS, Inc.) in June 2017.

With 10 years of experience, VIAAS is among the most advanced VSaaS solutions in the market and holds 3 issued U.S. patents. It designs and engineers the complete solution and has cameras manufactured to its specifications through an OEM supplier arrangement. The VIAAS platform includes proprietary cloud-camera connectivity firmware, cloud navigation, administration, video storage, playback, and data architecture. The VIAAS Secure Cloud platform is hosted on Amazon Web Services (AWS).

To date, the Campbell California-based company, VIAAS has delivered thousands of cameras to hundreds of SMB, education, government and enterprise customers throughout the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. And with that, the company has proved that it is one of the leading companies in the industry at present.

In-Conversation with the Founder & President of VIAAS, Matt Connolly:

Q. What challenges did you face in your initial years? What can your peers learn from it?

VIAAS development began in 2008 when Cloud was not broadly embraced as it is today. Offering a Cloud-based surveillance solution and establishing a price point for cameras and services was a challenge. Potential customers were not ready for a video surveillance solution with recurring annual charges.

Over the years, the value of Cloud-based solutions has become clear. Businesses are no longer running from the Cloud but rather, embracing it as a path to lower TCO, better and more responsive products and services, and flexible, scalable deployment options. The shift in VSaaS really became favorable around 2015 and has gained momentum since.

Today, VIAAS is one of the leading firms in the industry. We have expanded to 3 cameras and 5 service plans that can be mixed and matched to better meet the diverse needs and business objectives of our customers.

Q. What kind of mixed responses have you received from your consumers over the years? How have they motivated you to shape your offerings/grow the company?

At VIAAS, our customers are the best source of product feedback and guide our product and feature development. So, we pay very careful attention to customer feedback and often probe for details that help us improve our products and services.  Early on in VIAAS development, we struggled with camera reliability and other customer affecting issues. We listened to the customers and evaluated every complaint. We also learned from customer praise but never took it for granted. 

In 2017, we introduced 3 entirely new cameras to replace the previous generation. The cameras are fantastic, delivering high performance and reliability at a very modest price point. Customer feedback has been universally positive.

We grew our service plan offerings from one plan in 2010 to five plans in 2018 at the request of our customers. Additional improvements and features were developed as a result of customer requests. VIAAS has a great track record of customer support and responsiveness.

Q. To maintain a reputation in the global market, it is important to build a culture of sustainability inside an organization. How is it true for your company?

At VIAAS, we support a culture of sustainability and recognize the benefits at the local level and beyond.  Headquartered in the heart of the Silicon Valley, VIAAS is immersed in a culture of sustainability that is leading the nation.

From the automated building controls that minimize power consumption, LED lighting throughout our offices and an active recycling program, the VIAAS team makes a difference. Members of the team donate time and resources to local charities. Also, VIAAS offers employees paid time off to volunteer for sustainability projects and organizations.

 Q. A company’s behavior is as important as its economic performance or the quality of its products. How do you interpret this saying?

A company’s behavior towards its customers, employees,and community is an excellent measure of its potential for success. That behavior begins with the company leadership who must support a people-before-profit culture. When companies put people first, profits and commercial success can follow. A company that focuses on profits at the expense of customers, employees,and community is destined for failure. Happy customers buy more products and tell others.Happy employees work hard and contribute to team success. A positive reputation in the community opens doors for new opportunities, favorable reviews and the possibility of giving back.

Q. ‘Leaders cannot optimize results by themselves; they need employees’ support and assistance.’ How does your company interpret this saying?

We’re a relatively small company, so all employees are empowered and encouraged to contribute to planning and execution, tactical and strategic. At VIAAS, our employees are also owners of the company. With skin in the game, the entire VIAAS team has a vested interest in company success. As the company president, I often look to employees to offer input based on their respective strengths.

The Roadmap Ahead

Looking into the future, VIAAS anticipates strong and sustainable growth. The Video Surveillance as a Service (VSaaS) market is growing at ~30% CAGR and expected to reach nearly $6B by 2022.

Moreover, VIAAS is working hard to expand its customer base, brand recognition, and success. The company looks forward to becoming a formidable competitor in the VSaaS space, opening up strategic opportunities and favorable business options.

Greet the Leader

Matt Connolly, Founder, and President: Matt has called the Silicon Valley home since 1993 and was a co-founder in multiple start-ups, with 2 successful exits. Prior to his current position, Matt was a Product Manager and Director of Sales at Barracuda Networks for the CudaCam surveillance solution.  Matt brings 25 years surveillance experience, 15 years with AT&T in roles ranging from Investigations Manager to Sales Executive. Matt is a Graduate of National University, with a BS in Business Administration -Summa Cum Laude.

“To stand out in the crowded video surveillance field, VIAAS always puts customers first.”