Why Quality Matters in Security Solutions
W. Edwards Deming was a key figure in American business theory, known for his advocacy of Total Quality Management (TQM). He famously said, “Quality is pride of workmanship,” highlighting his belief that continuous product improvement leads to better overall quality.
Deming’s approach emphasizes that quality should be a core value throughout every level of an organization—from leadership and management to employee training and customer interactions. Every employee has a role in the quality process. At Armoured One, we fully embrace this philosophy, recognizing that prioritizing quality is imperative. In a world where lives are constantly at stake, safety and security is compulsory. The reliability of our products is fundamental. We recognize that the stakes are high; our security products are designed to protect lives in potentially life-threatening situations, such as active shooter incidents. This responsibility drives us to hold to the highest standards of quality, ensuring that our security films and glass undergo rigorous testing that meet or exceed the performance requirements.
Each item we produce is meticulously created from quality materials, made to withstand significant threats and deliver protection when it matters most. This commitment to quality not only enhances the effectiveness of our products but also creates trust among our clients—schools, businesses, and institutions that rely on us to provide proper safety.
Armoured One not only offers secure environments but also offers trainings to prepare clients for the active-shooter situations. This company’s vision is greater than just the products offered; the clients are cherished, and their safety is always on our minds.
We continuously improve our products to address the evolving threats and safety concerns in this country today. This proactive approach sets us apart in the market. Customers can be confident that when they choose Armoured One, they are making an informed decision that prioritizes their safety and well-being.
Cheap Isn’t Quality, and Quality Isn’t Cheap
The saying “cheap isn’t quality, and quality isn’t cheap” is a critical reality in consumer behavior. Opting for cheaper products often means sacrificing durability, safety, security, longevity, and overall performance. Quality items typically come with a higher price tag because they are crafted from quality materials, undergo rigorous testing, and usually include warranties and reliable customer support. While the allure of lower-cost options is tempting, it’s essential to understand the trade-offs and risks involved in choosing cheaper products. These risks can include inadequate safety and security standards, as well as potential liabilities that consumers may not initially consider.
You Get What You Pay For
The phrase “you get what you pay for” serves as a powerful reminder that product prices often reflect their quality, craftsmanship, and durability. Choosing cheaper options might offer immediate savings, but it results in a product that does not meet current performance standards, which can be life-threatening. Investing in a higher quality item typically ensures better materials and superior performance even if it may cost more. It ultimately leads to an appropriate level of protection.
The Risks of Cheap Products
While the appeal of cheap products can be strong, especially in a budget-conscious society, the resulting risks often far outweigh the initial savings. A primary concern is the quality of materials used in these inexpensive products. Many are manufactured with subpar materials that may not meet security standards. Additionally, cheap products often lack the accountability and transparency associated with higher-quality brands, especially when not mandated or required.
The market for cheap products also presents risks related to improper or underperforming products. Consumers may unknowingly purchase products that not only fail to meet performance standards, thus posing higher security risks, but also can introduce new unforeseen complications. Furthermore, the prevalence of cheap products can stifle innovation and quality in the marketplace. When consumers consistently opt for the least expensive option, companies may feel pressured to cut costs rather than invest in research and development of better products.
Moreover, as consumers become accustomed to low prices, they may develop unrealistic expectations regarding value. This can lead to dissatisfaction, even with reasonably priced, high-quality goods, which unfortunately often has caused the benefits of investing in appropriate products that offer better performance to be overlooked and dismissed.
The Importance of Informed Choices
To address these risks, it is essential for consumers to educate themselves when choosing products with roles critical to their own missions and projects’ goals. While cheap products may initially seem to offer financial advantages, the associated risks in choosing products not designed or certified for specific purposes present a compelling case for reconsideration. Armoured One offers products that undergo rigorous testing and prove to be durable. It is important for the consumer to choose products that ensure safety and appropriate protection when needed. The decision to invest in such products should be made with great understanding, and responsibility.
How Does This Affect the Choice for Security Film and Glass?
Armoured One’s mission is to save lives and combat the threat posed by active shooters. We manufacture products specifically designed to meet the most current and rigorous testing standards, such as the ASTM F3561 Standard Test Method for Forced-Entry Resistance of Fenestration Systems After Simulated Active Shooter Attack. This standard test recreates and simulates active shooter attacks on our glass and film products to resist and delay entry, effectively bringing the attack to a stop before the threat can invade any further. It’s important to note that while our products provide significant protection, they are not classified as bullet resistant.
However, the challenge lies in the fact that not all security films and glass marketed for security purposes meet these rigorous testing standards. Many rely on outdated testing methods originally developed for vandalism and burglary prevention. These tests focus on keeping glass intact long enough to trigger alarms and deter vandals, without considering the realities of an active shooter situation. Some may also mistakenly confound safety criteria with security qualifications, or incorrectly assume they are equitable. A key distinction is that safety tests do not anticipate a glass being intentionally damaged or enduring a sustained and focused assault by a firearm. The performance of perforated films and glass products differs significantly from that of products that have not been compromised.
Therefore, when selecting security products, especially those designed to protect against active shooters, it is vital to understand the distinctions between purpose-built solutions and those that simply meet basic safety ratings. While testing and certification can be costly, they are essential for ensuring the effectiveness and reliability of security measures. Choosing products that have undergone rigorous testing can make all the difference in protecting lives. It is crucial to understand that the decisions made in this marketplace have far-reaching consequences. The temptation to choose cheaper options may appear to be a smart financial decision in the moment, however, the true cost of these choices might be unfortunate. By choosing to invest in high-quality, durable products offered by Armoured One, institutions and businesses can have the peace of mind as safety is ensured.
Armoured One is dedicated to developing security products that address this pressing issue. Our ultimate goal will always be to prevent active-shooter incidents before they occur and to provide the necessary resources and trainings to equip individuals in different institutions and organizations for effective responses in such situations. By prioritizing quality, we not only have improved our operational productivity but also have enhanced customer satisfaction. Quality has become a shared value that drives every decision and action. At Armoured One, quality isn’t just a priority; it’s an essential part of who we are and what we strive to achieve.