Sharing of information and data across disparate systems, however, can be an extremely complex and costly undertaking. Furthermore, there are numerous methods of integrating fire alarm and security functions in buildings or across enterprises. Systems integrators and manufacturers will promise, and many will deliver, completely integrated fire alarm and security systems. However, sales hype, slick marketing brochures and trade show booths all proclaiming to answer facility security and fire alarm monitoring needs can overwhelm building owners and facility managers.

So, where to start?