Traditional people counting methods, such as visitor registers, anti-theft device counters, or overhead cameras, often lead to inaccuracies. Visitors may forget to sign in or may enter multiple times in a single day, resulting in double counting.

The NdCount® People Counting Solution is a modular and flexible system specifically designed for the South African library market, powered by a leading facial recognition engine. With NdCount, each face is uniquely identified and counted only once, even if a visitor enters the library multiple times in a day. Alongside visitor counts, the system provides classifications for gender, age estimation, and broad ethnic categories, all derived from the facial recognition engine.

NdCount’s architecture consists of two main components: a backend data repository with a management portal and an edge computing engine installed in each library. Ndende's technical specialists oversee the monitoring, configuration, and maintenance of the on-premise hardware, tailoring the facial recognition engine to each library's environment. The NdCount platform continually evolves with innovative features to deliver maximum value to our customers.

Access to the central data repository is secure and limited to authorized personnel through user-based roles. In compliance with the POPIA Act, no personal data of patrons is stored in the central repository, ensuring privacy. Users can view anonymous statistical data for each library.

A consolidated view at provincial, regional, or municipal levels provides management with both live and historical patron statistics for all libraries. Based on their access rights, NdCount users can obtain real-time graphical statistics of patrons across libraries, municipalities, regions, or departments. This includes total patron counts, gender breakdowns, and age distributions. Users can specify date ranges and compare data over selected periods. Reports are exportable to PDF or Microsoft Excel, and data can also be integrated with Microsoft Power BI for advanced reporting.

Additionally, data and statistics for each library are visualized on a GIS map, offering valuable management insights.

At Ndende, our Managed Services are designed to ensure seamless operation and optimal performance of the NdCount® People Counting Solution. Our dedicated team of technical specialists is responsible for the ongoing monitoring, configuration, and maintenance of the installed hardware at each library. This proactive approach guarantees that each library's facial recognition engine is tailored to its unique environment, maximizing accuracy and reliability.

Through our Managed Services, we provide continuous support and regular updates to the NdCount platform, incorporating market-leading innovations to enhance functionality and deliver maximum value to our customers. Our experts work closely with library staff to address any issues that arise, ensuring smooth operation and minimal downtime.

With secure access controls in place, our Managed Services also protect sensitive data while enabling library staff to utilize robust analytical tools for informed decision-making. This comprehensive support framework empowers libraries to focus on their core mission while we handle the technical complexities.