Design Security System Layouts with XTEN-AV
Designing security systems is never simple. Integrators manage camera coverage, security alarm systems, video surveillance setups, and Bills of Materials (BOMs) all at once. Doing it manually can take hours and still leave room for mistakes.
System Surveyor is a cloud-based tool created to make this process faster and more accurate. It allows users to build layouts with drag-and-drop ease, generate BOMs automatically, and simplify proposal creation. Teams can share plans, track changes, and move projects forward without relying on spreadsheets or outdated drawings.
Many integrators first want to know about the System Surveyor subscription cost. Understanding the monthly or annual pricing and which System Surveyor plan suits a team’s needs is essential before making a decision. Costs vary depending on team size, project complexity, and billing preference.
This article breaks down the pricing tiers and highlights what each plan offers. It also explores which teams benefit most from each option and compares System Surveyor to other tools on the market.
We will also touch on alternatives like XTEN‑AV to help you see how different platforms handle security system design, proposal automation, and project management. By the end, you will have a clear idea of whether System Surveyor is worth the investment for your business.
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System Surveyor provides pricing options to fit teams of all sizes and different types of projects. No matter if your task is just to cover a small area with cameras or to supervise the installation of several security alarms, there is a plan that suits your workflow and your budget. Each plan is broken down below with its best uses and features, advantages, and disadvantages.
There are three plans, each catering to different industry:
Starter Plan
Best For: Individuals or small teams testing the platform for the first time.
Price: Free per user, forever.
Features:
- Build layouts easily using a simple drag-and-drop interface.
- Add photos and notes to your plans for better documentation.
- Work with multiple types of security systems in one project.
- Automatically create a basic Bill of Materials (BOM).
- Generate a sample PDF report to see your design in action.
- Conduct unlimited surveys without restrictions.
Pros:
- No cost barrier, perfect for experimenting and learning the system.
- Straightforward interface makes it easy to get started.
Cons:
- Reports are basic and not branded.
- Advanced exports, like Excel, are not available.
Note: Great for solo integrators or small teams who want to explore system design digitally without paying upfront.
Essentials Plan
Best For: Small teams that need professional-looking reports and proposals.
Price: $50/month per user (billed annually) or $55/month (billed monthly).
Features:
- Everything included in the Starter Plan.
- Produce branded PDF reports suitable for client presentations.
Pros:
- Reports look polished and professional for clients.
- Affordable for small teams.
Cons:
- Limited collaboration options for multiple users.
- No Excel export for deeper data handling.
Note: This plan is suitable for teams that create proposals often and want them to look client-ready without extra work.
Scale Plan
Best For: Mid-sized teams handling multiple projects or collaborating with partners.
Price: $70/month per user billed monthly, or $840/year per user if billed annually.
Features:
- Includes all Essentials Plan features.
- Export reports to Excel for detailed analysis.
- Add legends to survey layouts for clarity.
- Remove System Surveyor branding on outputs.
- Estimate cable lengths automatically.
- Keep sensitive project data secure with encryption.
- Allow guest users to view projects without full access.
- Organize surveys into folders by site or project.
Pros:
- Advanced reporting and data security for larger projects.
- Supports multi-user collaboration efficiently.
Cons:
- May be more expensive than necessary for smaller projects.
- Some features might not be used for simple designs.
Note: Best for teams managing mid-size projects that need automated BOMs, clean proposals, and collaborative tools for multiple stakeholders.
Enterprise Plan
Best For: Large organizations managing multiple sites and teams.
Price: Custom pricing, minimum 15 users.
Features:
- Includes all Scale Plan capabilities.
- Support multiple teams working on separate projects.
- Single Sign-On (SSO) for easier access management.
- Integrate with other tools using API access.
- Extra guest sites for client or partner access.
- Apply custom watermarks on reports.
- Flexible terms tailored to enterprise needs.
Pros:
- Fully customizable to complex workflows.
- Handles large teams and multiple projects simultaneously.
- Strong integration and security features.
Cons:
- Higher cost and minimum user requirement.
- Overkill for small teams or simple projects.
Note: Enterprise is ideal for national or global integrators dealing with multiple security system deployments, requiring extensive collaboration and integration.
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Starter Plan
Best For:
Small teams just beginning to digitize their security system design workflows.
Price:
Free Forever $0 Per Seat
Features:
- Unlimited surveys for different sites.
- Up to 25 element icons per survey with three photos each.
- Guest user access for up to 10 sites per guest.
- Drag-and-drop layouts for low voltage and security systems.
- Google Maps integration for accurate site placement.
- Automated BOM generation and basic PDF reporting.
- Device information encryption for security.
Pros:
- Affordable and easy to start with.
- Covers core survey and reporting needs.
- Simple interface for quick adoption.
Cons:
- Limited number of icons and photos per survey.
- Basic reporting features compared to higher plans.
- Minimal customization options.
Note:
Best suited for teams that need essential tools for site surveys and basic reports without a complex setup.
Corporate Plan
Best For:
Medium to large organizations that need advanced features for managing multiple sites and teams.
Price:
Contact System Surveyor for pricing details.
Features:
- Includes all Starter Plan features.
- Up to 1000 element icons per survey with seven photos each.
- Support for multiple teams and role-based permissions.
- Single Sign-On (SSO) for easier access control.
- API access for integrations with other tools.
- Custom watermarks and branding options.
- Enhanced guest user management.
Pros:
- Scalable for larger organizations.
- Advanced customization and branding.
- Strong collaboration features for multiple teams.
Cons:
- Higher cost, may not suit small teams
- Requires a minimum of 10 paid users.
- More complex setup and onboarding.
Note:
Ideal for organizations handling large-scale security projects where advanced functionality, customization, and integrations are essential.
Starter Plan
Best For:
Small teams or individuals initiating digital site surveys and security system designs.
Price: Free Forever
Features:
- Unlimited surveys
- Drag-and-drop design for all low voltage and other system types
- Google Maps integration
- Boundaries (Area of Coverage)
- Camera Advisor
- Favorite Elements
- Create Site Folders
- Automated Bill of Materials (BOM)
- PDF reporting sample.
Pros:
- No cost, making it accessible for small teams or trials
- Comprehensive set of core features for basic security system design
- User-friendly interface suitable for beginners.
Cons:
- Limited to 25 element icons per survey
- Restricted to 3 photos per icon
- Basic reporting capabilities
- No Excel export or advanced customization options.
Note:
Ideal for small-scale projects or teams just starting with digital security system design.
Campus Lite Plan
Best For:
Campus technology teams managing systems across multiple buildings.
Price: Contact for Pricing
Features:
- All Starter Plan features
- Legend on Survey Layout Report
- Increased number of icons per survey
- More photos per icon
- Excel reports and export capabilities
- Remove System Surveyor branding
- Calculate cable length
- InfoMask: Encrypt device information
- Guest users
- Create site folders.
Pros:
- Enhanced reporting and export options
- Increased customization with branding removal
- Additional tools for cable length calculations
- Improved visual elements per survey for detailed designs.
Cons:
- Requires a minimum of 5 paid users
- Pricing details are not publicly available
- Advanced features may require additional training.
Note:
Suitable for campus teams that need to manage security systems across multiple buildings with enhanced reporting and customization capabilities.
Campus Complete Plan
Best For:
Campus technology teams managing systems across multiple campuses.
Price: Contact System Surveyor for Pricing
Features:
- All Campus Lite Plan features
- Increased number of photos per icon
- Support for multiple teams
- Single Sign-On (SSO)
- API access for integrations
- More guest user sites
- Custom watermark
- Option for non-standard business terms.
Pros:
- Scalable for larger campus environments
- Enhanced collaboration with multiple team support
- Improved security with SSO integration
- Flexible business terms to suit organizational needs.
Cons:
- Requires a minimum of 10 paid users
- Pricing details are not publicly available
- Implementation may require additional resources.
Note:
Best suited for large campus environments requiring advanced features for managing security systems across multiple locations with enhanced collaboration and customization options.
System Integrators, Corporate Security Professionals, and Campus Security Professionals each have tailored options. The Starter or Campus Starter plan is ideal for solo users or small teams just starting with digital design. Essentials or Corporate Lite helps small teams produce branded reports and polished outputs. Scale or Corporate Plan supports collaboration and advanced features for mid-sized projects. Campus Lite and Complete cater to multi-building or multi-campus setups. Enterprise-level options are built for large organizations with complex workflows and extensive integrations.
All plans include essential tools like BOM creation, camera coverage mapping, and proposal automation. For integrators considering alternatives, XTEN‑AV offers AI-assisted proposal generation, project management, and design features that can complement or replace System Surveyor depending on workflow needs. Comparing System Surveyor’s subscription cost, System Surveyor plans, features, best for, and pros & cons helps determine which option delivers the best value.
Category | Best For | Price | Key Features | Pros | Cons |
System Integrators | Solo users or teams managing security system projects | Free for Starter, $50–$70/month per user for Essentials/Scale, custom for Enterprise | Drag-and-drop layouts, multi-system support, automated BOM, PDF/Excel reports, collaboration tools, SSO, API integrations | Flexible for all team sizes, scalable features, professional reporting | Cost rises for advanced features and larger teams |
Corporate Security Professionals | Small to large organizations managing multiple sites | Free for Starter, contact for Corporate Plan pricing | Unlimited surveys, icon/photo management, guest access, automated BOM, reporting, SSO, API integrations, custom branding | Scalable, advanced customization, strong collaboration | Higher cost for large organizations, setup complexity for advanced workflows |
Campus Security Professionals | Campus teams managing single or multiple buildings/campuses | Free for Starter, contact for Campus Lite/Complete pricing | Drag-and-drop layouts, Google Maps integration, area boundaries, Camera Advisor™, automated BOM, PDF/Excel reports, guest access, encryption, collaboration | Supports multi-building/multi-campus projects, enhanced reporting, scalable | Pricing for higher tiers not public, setup may require training |
A lot of system integrators opt for System Surveyor primarily for its capability to make the whole process of security system design, proposal automation, and documentation simpler. However, the bigger or more complicated the project becomes, the more workflow disruptions due to certain inefficiencies which directly affect the output of the team.
Hidden costs, limited options for integration and repetitive tasks may be some of the factors that slow down the system design making it longer than expected.
Over time, these friction points can impact project reliability and add stress to teams delivering video surveillance or security alarm system installations on tight timelines. For fast-moving projects or lean teams, this can mean more time troubleshooting and less time on actual installations.
Here are the most common hurdles integrators face with System Surveyor:
- Scaling Can Be Expensive for Growing Teams:
System Surveyor subscription cost can look reasonable at first. But adding extra users, advanced collaboration features, or multiple CAD licenses quickly increases monthly or annual billing. Smaller teams may find these costs hard to justify. Some integrators turn to XTEN‑AV, which provides AI-assisted proposal automation and project management. This helps teams scale without hidden overhead or extra complexity.
- Limited Workflow Continuity Between Design and Execution:
A recurring challenge is the gap between design and field execution. After generating proposals or BOMs, teams often rely on static PDFs or manual notes. This slows updates to layouts, cable runs, or camera coverage plans. Tools like XTEN‑AV link design and project management in real time. Teams can track updates across surveys, proposals, and installations without juggling multiple files.
- Manual Adjustments and Detailed Planning:
Even with System Surveyor’s tools, checking cable lengths, annotating layouts, or adjusting equipment placement for large security alarm systems takes extra effort. BOMs are automated, but multi-floor or intricate site layouts still need manual tweaks. This increases the chance of errors. Using X‑Draw within XTEN‑AV can reduce these tasks. It automates speaker distribution, cable routing, and layout adjustments. Without the need for continuous manual intervention, teams manage to save time and enhance the precision of their work.
- Limited Third-Party Integrations:
System Surveyor can be used independently, but the only way it can be integrated into project management or CRM tools is through Enterprise plans. Teams wanting a connected workflow across survey, design, and proposals may need additional software. This can increase overall security system design tool cost and complicate daily processes.
- Learning Curve for New Teams:
New users may need time to set up libraries, templates, and reports. Teams without dedicated CAD operators may struggle initially. Platforms like XTEN‑AV reduce setup overhead and automate repetitive design tasks. This helps teams focus on execution rather than manual configurations.
System Surveyor is an excellent tool for system integrators, but its worthiness is strictly reliant on your team and projects. If you are an individual integrator or a small team responsible for a couple of security alarm systems or video surveillance installations, then the Starter or Essentials plans cover all the essentials. You get automated BOMs, layout tools, and simple proposal generation without adding extra overhead.
Costs increase quickly for larger teams. On the other hand, Scale and Enterprise plans provide multiple user collaboration, advanced reporting as well as other features, however, smaller teams might not require everything. Monthly and annual payment methods are offered, adding flexibility, but it is necessary to ascertain if your team actually utilizes the features included in the plan before making a commitment.
Workflow efficiency is another factor. System Surveyor handles BOMs and basic layouts, but multi-floor designs or complex site adjustments often require manual effort. Teams that want to save time can turn to XTEN‑AV. Its X‑Draw feature automatically manages speaker placement, cable routing, and layout adjustments. This reduces errors and helps projects move faster.
In the end, System Surveyor is worth the investment if your team uses the features you pay for. For teams seeking more automation or better integration across survey, design, and proposals, it is smart to compare plans with alternatives. Looking at a System Surveyor cost comparison alongside solutions like XTEN‑AV can help you choose the right tool for your workflow and budget.
For many system integrators, System Surveyor helps bridge the gap between planning and documentation. Yet as projects grow and expectations rise, teams often start looking for something faster and more automated. That is where XTEN-AV steps in as a strong alternative.
XTEN-AV is a cloud-based platform built specifically for AV and security system design. It brings together design automation, proposal creation, and project tracking in a single workspace. Instead of switching between design tools and spreadsheets, integrators can complete their entire workflow inside one connected system.
The real power of XTEN-AV starts with X-Draw, its intelligent drawing environment. It automatically creates AV floor plans, calculates speaker coverage, and aligns devices across large or multi-room layouts. Cable paths, rack elevations, and BOM updates happen in real time, so teams can design faster without manual adjustments.
Then comes X-DOC, which takes care of proposal automation. It pulls data directly from the BOM, formats pricing, and generates branded proposals in minutes. This helps integrators send polished, client-ready documents without repetitive formatting or copy-pasting.
To manage execution, X-PRO handles project creation and tracking. Tasks, timelines, and progress updates stay organized within the same ecosystem. That means design teams, sales, and installers always work from a single source of truth.
At the center of it all is XAVIA AI, XTEN-AV’s voice and chat assistant. It responds to prompts, generates designs, updates proposals, and recommends devices based on context. This transforms what used to take hours into a quick, conversational workflow.
For teams comparing System Surveyor subscription cost or conducting a System Surveyor cost comparison, XTEN-AV offers more automation, better integration, and a faster way to deliver complete AV and security designs from start to finish.
AV Design Mastery + Winning Proposals = 10x Productivity!
- ✔ Automatic Cable Labeling & Styling
- ✔100+ Free Proposal Templates
- ✔ Upload & Create Floor Plans
- ✔1.5M Products from 5200 Brands
- ✔ AI-powered ‘Search Sense'
- ✔Legally Binding Digital Signatures
Picking a security system design tool isn’t just about price. It’s about how it fits into your daily work. For small teams, System Surveyor can help plan layouts, manage BOMs, and keep things organized. It works well for simple video surveillance and security alarm system projects.
When projects get bigger or more complex, keeping everything updated manually takes time. XTEN-AV helps with this. It combines design, proposals, and project management in one place, so your team doesn’t have to juggle multiple tools.
It’s also smart to compare System Surveyor subscription cost with what you actually need. Look at the features you’ll use most and how much time you spend on repetitive updates. Sometimes paying a bit more saves hours of work and reduces mistakes.
Try it for yourself. Register for a 15-day trial or schedule a free demo. XTEN-AV can save time, make designs more accurate, and simplify your AV projects.
FAQ's
System Surveyor offers plans to suit different team sizes and project types. For System Integrators, the Starter plan is free, ideal for solo users or small teams testing the platform. Essentials and Scale plans range from $50–$70 per user per month, offering professional reports and collaboration tools. Enterprise pricing is customized for large teams with complex workflows. For Corporate Security Professionals and Campus Security Professionals, Starter plans are also free, while higher-tier plans require contacting System Surveyor for pricing, depending on the number of users and advanced features needed.
Cloud tools provide the possibility of real-time collaboration for your team regardless of the members’ different locations. Layouts, BOMs, or proposals that are changed get synced automatically. It is no longer a hassle to send files through email, and the cloud takes care of your backups. It is no problem at all to get to your designs from a tablet, laptop, or phone. In summary, it has made the management of security system design projects quicker and less stressful.
Monthly pricing varies by plan and team type. For System Integrators, Essentials costs $50 per user, Scale is $65 per user, and Enterprise is customized. Starter is free. For Corporate Security Professionals and Campus Security Professionals, Starter is also free, while higher-tier plans require contacting System Surveyor for pricing. Monthly billing gives flexibility to add users or upgrade features as your team grows, ensuring you only pay for what you actually need.
Some well-known alternatives include XTEN‑AV, D-Tools, and AutoCAD-based platforms. Each has strengths in different areas, like automated design, proposal generation, or complex CAD layouts. If you’re comparing tools, it helps to list the features you actually use and see which software fits your workflow best.
XTEN‑AV integrates design, proposals, and project management, which can save a lot of time. It includes tools like X-Draw, X-DOC, and X-PRO to automate repetitive tasks. System Surveyor is simpler and works well for basic projects, but for teams looking to reduce manual work and speed up design, XTEN‑AV is worth considering.
Yes, especially if you just need basic layouts and BOMs. The Starter plan is free and the Essentials plan is affordable. Small teams can benefit from organized designs and easy proposal creation without paying too much. If you want more automation or AI-assisted workflows, alternatives like XTEN‑AV may be a better fit.
Add-ons increase the total cost. Extra licenses, advanced reporting, or CAD integrations come on top of the base plan. Some small teams won’t need all the add-ons, but bigger teams might find them essential. It’s a good idea to check which add-ons you actually need before committing.
System Surveyor can create proposals from your BOMs, which is handy for small projects. XTEN‑AV’s X-DOC makes proposal creation faster, pulling data directly and formatting it automatically. For bigger projects with more complex requirements, XTEN‑AV can save time and reduce errors compared to System Surveyor.
Add all the costs of your tools, including subscriptions, add-ons, and training. Include the value of the time you save using automation. Comparing this total to the benefits helps decide which platform gives the most value. TCO is useful when planning long-term software budgets.
Popular alternatives include XTEN‑AV, D-Tools, and AutoCAD-based solutions. XTEN‑AV stands out with AI-assisted design, automated BOMs, and integrated project management.
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AV Design Mastery + Winning Proposals = 10x Productivity!
- Automatic Cable Labeling & Styling
- 100+ Free Proposal Templates
- Upload & Create Floor Plans
- 1.5M Products from 5200 Brands
- AI-powered ‘Search Sense'
- Legally Binding Digital Signatures
No Credit Card Required
