Camera system planning worksheet

Camera system planning worksheet

Print this guide 10 min · Worksheet

Good camera coverage comes from clear goals, not a high camera count. Use this worksheet before you meet with a provider so you can describe what you need and compare proposals fairly.

Step 1: Define the purpose

Write down what you want video to do. Different goals need different camera placement and image quality.

• Deter theft or misconduct
• Identify people entering the building
• Document incidents for insurance or investigations
• Monitor operations, safety, or customer service
• Watch remote or unoccupied sites

Step 2: List the places that matter

Step 3: Choose the view for each

A wide view shows the scene. A tighter view helps identify a face. Entrances often need both. Avoid pointing cameras at bright windows or doors, which can turn people into silhouettes.

Step 4: Check image quality

• Footage is clear enough to identify a person at each important location
• Cameras work in low light or have supporting lighting
• Clocks are accurate and time-stamped
• Cameras are protected from tampering and easy reach

Step 5: Decide retention and access

Decide how long you keep routine footage and how long you hold footage from an incident. Limit who can view and export video, and keep a record of who does.

Step 6: Respect privacy

Avoid restrooms, locker areas, and spaces where people reasonably expect privacy. Post notices where required, and ask your attorney about local rules. Some systems can blur faces or sensitive areas to limit exposure.

Step 7: Plan for failure and growth

• The system keeps recording if the internet goes down
• Storage matches your retention plan
• Cameras and software receive updates and are monitored
• There is room to add cameras or locations later

Step 8: Test after installation

Review real footage from daytime and night. Walk the areas and ask: could we identify someone from this? Adjust angles and lighting before you rely on the system.