photoSentinel
Thomastown (Wurundjeri), Victoria.
Australian Export Awards increase local and global exposure
We are extremely proud. Recognition validates and supports our efforts to grow our export business through increased exposure locally and globally.
Matthew Perrier, Chief Executive Officer at photoSentinel.
Small Business (joint) winner – photoSentinel.
It’s lights, camera, action for photoSentinel exports
21 November 2024
photoSentinel was born in 2010 when a team of engineer-turned-entrepreneurs created the first timelapse camera for Australian photographers.
The company has since evolved into a global leader in construction vision technology. It offers high-quality images and data insights that streamline workflows and enhance decision-making.
Innovative export initiatives in the last 3 years have driven huge growth, especially in the US and the Middle East. photoSentinel has increased its export sales from 37% to 70% of total revenue in just 2 years.
A new business model drives growth in the US
In the US, photoSentinel has recently launched a new brand and business model. ‘Our initial entry into the US market revealed that our traditional B2B2B model was ineffective,’ says Matthew Perrier, Chief Executive Officer at photoSentinel. ‘We quickly pivoted to launch a new B2B brand, Buildcam, to directly target the construction industry.’
The Buildcam model shifts from photoSentinel’s traditional approach of partnering with photographers.
‘By offering solutions tailored to construction managers, we have increased our market share and established a strong presence in the US market,’ says Perrier.
A decade-long presence in the Middle East
In the past year, photoSentinel achieved a remarkable milestone in the Middle East, a region known for its large construction sector. ‘We have nurtured relationships there for over a decade, understanding that success requires patience and cultural expertise,’ says Perrier.
‘Our long-term strategy paid off when we secured a significant contract on a large national project in Dubai in mid-2023.’ The success has strengthened photoSentinel’s bottom line and positioned it for further expansion in the Middle East and beyond.
A swift response secures exports
The catalyst for this success was photoSentinel’s swift response to an urgent request from the key government stakeholder.
‘On a Thursday night, the stakeholder decided they needed a new construction monitoring technology by Monday,’ says Perrier. ‘Thanks to our local presence, partnerships and innovative technology, we deployed a bespoke system by Sunday. This allowed the stakeholder to see it in action on Monday.’
This rapid response was critical in securing the contract. It highlighted photoSentinel’s ability to meet demanding and evolving project requirements. photoSentinel now has over 390 cameras on the project.
Our AI algorithms streamline video production, providing clients with professional, ready-to-use footage that minimises manual effort and post-production time.
Bringing pioneering new tech to market
The Dubai contract has also allowed photoSentinel to develop its proprietary remote video technology tailored to local needs.
‘The complex needs of the project accelerated the creation of our photoSentinel Presto remote video monitoring camera,’ says Perrier. ‘We plan to introduce it globally soon.’ This new product is anticipated to bring in A$5 million in sales over the next 3 years. It also provides a product launch pad for further technological advances and increased revenue.
Leading the market in innovation
photoSentinel was an early pioneer of AI video creation. It partnered with the Australian Research Council and RMIT University to develop sophisticated AI technology for professional timelapse video.
‘Our AI algorithms streamline video production, providing clients with professional, ready-to-use footage that minimises manual effort and post-production time,’ says Perrier. ‘This technological advancement has been crucial in maintaining our competitive edge and meeting international standards.’
Waste reduction schemes promote a sustainable approach
photoSentinel is dedicated to fostering sustainability in its international business.
The company is committed to ethical and sustainable sourcing. It ensures materials and components are acquired responsibly to minimise environmental impact and promote fair labour practices. It also has a Waste Reduction Programme, in collaboration with key suppliers. The program aims to reduce material reject rates, thereby minimising waste.
Australian Export Awards increase local and global exposure
photoSentinel is the 2024 joint winner of the Australian Export Awards Small Business award category. The company also won the same award category in the 2018 Australian Export Awards.
‘We are extremely proud,’ says Perrier. ‘Recognition validates and supports our efforts to grow our export business through increased exposure locally and globally.’
A big picture thinker
Expectations in the construction and environmental monitoring market have surged in the past few years. This is driven by a new generation of project managers and developers in combination with rapid technological and AI advancements.
To succeed in this rapidly changing environment, photoSentinel is investing in R&D for cutting-edge camera hardware for extreme environments.
As Perrier concludes: ‘Our ability to innovate, adapt and strategically expand underscores our leadership in the global construction vision technology sector.’
Visit photoSentinel website.
Small Business (joint) winner – photoSentinel. For the full transcript please visit the Small Business Award 2024 - photoSentinel video on YouTube.
