The Basis of Design (BOD) is a comprehensive document that outlines the design criteria, standards, and specifications for a security system project. It serves as the foundational reference that guides all subsequent design and installation activities — and it is the single most effective tool for keeping a security project on scope, on schedule, and on budget.
Why a Basis of Design Matters
Most troubled security projects fail before the first device is installed — they fail at definition. When functional requirements live in emails, meeting notes, and assumptions, every stakeholder builds a different mental picture of the finished system. The integrator bids one thing, facilities expects another, and the security department inherits a system that does neither. A well-prepared Basis of Design minimizes misunderstandings, reduces change orders, and provides a clear benchmark for evaluating the final installation against the original requirements.
What Our BOD Documents Include
- Project goals and protection objectives — what the system must accomplish, tied to identified risks and, where applicable, regulatory drivers such as NERC CIP, DEA storage requirements, or MARSEC levels
- Functional requirements — how access control, video surveillance, intrusion detection, intercom, and integration platforms must behave in day-to-day and emergency operation
- Performance criteria — measurable standards for camera coverage and resolution, door hardware operation, alarm response, network throughput, and system availability
- Technical and industry standards — applicable codes (NFPA, UL, IBC), cybersecurity hardening requirements, and owner IT standards
- Design constraints — existing systems to be retained or migrated, phasing requirements, budget parameters, and infrastructure limitations
How the BOD Fits Your Project
The Basis of Design is typically the first deliverable following a vulnerability analysis, and it feeds directly into RFP development and construction documents. Because Protective Resources is independent of all manufacturers and integrators, our BOD documents specify performance — not brands — keeping your procurement competitive and defensible.
Architects and engineering firms also engage us to produce the security portion of a larger building design package, where our BOD integrates with the project’s overall design documentation.