Oct 23, 2009 6:12 am US/Eastern
'Virtual Doormen' Popping Up All Over NYC
More Than 100 Buildings In Big Apple Now Use Staff In Other Parts Of Country To Monitor Through High-Tech Means
NEW YORK (CBS) ―
Having an apartment in a doorman building is a luxury not everyone can afford.
Doormen can provide security and convenience, but at a price.
Now a new business promises comparable amenities at a fraction of the cost. But are they leaving the door open for potential danger, too?
A woman is followed into a building without a doorman, and is attacked. An alleged burglar cases a fully staffed building, and is foiled by an observant doorman.
But residents of this new building on a quiet block in Morningside Heights are employing a new breed of doorman -- a virtual doorman.
"This is supported by a live command center that's operated 24 hours a day, seven days a week," said virtual doorman Colin Foster.
More than 100 buildings around New York City are being monitored virtually, with video cameras and audio communication by "doormen," or staff located in Maine and Florida.
"We can unlock the door and allow people into the building," Foster said.
Tenants and their virtual doorman communicate primarily via e-mail. They can notify their "doorman" if a guest is expected, or be alerted if a package is delivered.
"It's a little bit Big Brother, but it's Big Brother on demand," Foster said.
As for security, even with no live person on sight there can still be a live, if virtual, intervention.
"We can see the person and let them know that they are on video the police have been called and the police are on their way," Foster said.
And as for the cost, it's estimated to be about 20 percent of having a doorman.
"I'm actually a member of the board of this building and I'm very aware of the finances at the condo and it is a significant savings," building resident Paul Hindle said.
According to Hindle, there are other advantages as well.
"I think one of the advantages of a building like this is that it gives you the idea of privacy. The service does the practical things we need, taking packages, making sure that messages are passed on," Hindle said.
But for others, the idea falls short.
"You can't get away from a personal doorman being in the building who meets you and greets you and knows who comes in and out of the building," said resident Cleopatra Amarata.
In some buildings, the technology can control the lights, heat, air conditioning, and even open apartment doors.
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