Innovator Ashwin Maniyankode Chandranathan Shapes Security Systems

In a rapidly evolving technological landscape, Ashwin Maniyankode Chandranathan is making significant strides in enhancing accessibility and usability within security systems. As a Senior Product Manager at Vicon Industries, he focuses on creating intelligent and inclusive solutions that are not only innovative but also user-friendly, ensuring their practical application in real-world scenarios.

From Humble Beginnings to Technological Leadership

Born in Wayanad, a picturesque region in southern India, Ashwin learned valuable life lessons from his parents, both farmers. Their teachings instilled in him a sense of discipline, patience, and a long-term vision—qualities that would later shape his career in technology. After obtaining a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science from Visvesvaraya Technological University in Bangalore, Ashwin began his professional journey at Tech Mahindra. There, he worked as a QA engineer on a large-scale network transformation project for British Telecom (BT), implementing automation techniques that halved regression testing time.

Following his tenure at Tech Mahindra, he joined BT e-Serv (India), where he designed testing frameworks for the iVserve platform. His introduction of automation not only enhanced testing efficiency by 35% but also reduced live issues by 30% per release. These early experiences were pivotal in shaping his philosophy that efficiency stems from smarter systems rather than sheer effort.

Pioneering the Cloud Revolution in Security

At Vicon Industries, a global leader in security and surveillance technology, Ashwin has been instrumental in the transition from traditional hardware solutions to intelligent, cloud-connected ecosystems. His work blends software, artificial intelligence (AI), and hardware, areas where usability is critical for success.

One of his notable achievements is the launch of Anavio, Vicon’s cloud-based access control and video management system (VMS). Designed for scalability and simplicity, Anavio integrates seamlessly with existing infrastructure while offering real-time analytics and encrypted remote monitoring. According to MarketsandMarkets, the global cloud video surveillance market is projected to grow from USD 3.2 billion in 2024 to over USD 10.5 billion by 2030, driven by advancements in AI-based automation. Ashwin emphasizes that accessibility is at the heart of Anavio’s design: “We’re not just designing for large enterprises. We’re designing for school districts, hospitals, and small businesses, where ease of use and reliability are life-critical.”

Beyond Anavio, Ashwin has contributed to the development of the NEXT Modular Sensor System, which combines AI-powered video analytics with a modular design. This system has already generated over USD 600,000 in revenue within its first three months and received multiple international awards, including the prestigious ESX Innovation Award for Video Surveillance.

Transforming Security through AI Integration

Another significant initiative led by Ashwin is the integration of the Omnilert solution into the Vicon Valerus VMS platform. Utilizing computer vision and deep learning, this system can detect firearms in live video feeds and alert authorities within seconds, a crucial advancement for early threat detection. The urgency for such technology is underscored by statistics from the Gun Violence Archive, which reported over 38,000 firearm-related deaths in the U.S. in 2024. Ashwin notes, “AI can’t replace human decision-making, but it can enhance it by buying crucial seconds in emergencies.”

Accessibility, for Ashwin, is not merely a responsibility; it is central to technology leadership. He advocates for humanizing advanced systems by simplifying interfaces and clarifying workflows. Many enterprise software implementations falter not because of technical shortcomings but due to user adoption barriers. His collaborative approach at Vicon, which melds engineering with business insight, ensures that every feature serves a clear, human-centered purpose. “Technology should never intimidate its users,” he asserts. “When it’s built with empathy, it empowers them.”

A Vision for the Future of Security

Ashwin’s influence extends beyond product development. He has represented Vicon in various training sessions and client tours across the U.S., London, and Dubai, assisting customers in deploying cloud and AI-based security systems suited to diverse environments. His global perspective aids in translating complex innovations into adaptable solutions that comply with varied regulatory and cultural contexts.

Looking ahead, Ashwin aims to enhance his leadership in AI-driven security platforms and telecommunication-integrated cloud systems. He envisions driving innovation that is scalable, ethical, and inclusive. His guiding belief remains straightforward yet profound: “Innovation isn’t about building the most advanced technology. It’s about building the technology that most people can actually use.”

As digital transformation accelerates, Ashwin’s commitment to making technology accessible is a critical step toward a future where security systems not only advance intelligence but also empower users globally.