Edition 29 - The IT Takeover: How IT Departments Are Reshaping Physical Security Decisions

The IT Takeover: How IT Departments Are Reshaping Physical Security Decisions

?"Who's in control of your organisation's security systems? The security team you've trusted for years or the IT department quietly taking the reins?"

The gap between physical security and IT is disappearing. As security technology increasingly depends on networks, data, and integration, IT departments are taking the lead on decisions that were once the domain of security professionals. This shift marks more than just a technical adjustment; it's a fundamental change in how organisations approach safety, risk management, and operational efficiency.

The convergence of physical security and IT has sparked a power shift. IT departments and providers are now driving key decisions around security system specifications, procurement, and installation. While this transformation presents challenges, it also opens up new opportunities for physical security managers and installers to adapt and thrive in an evolving landscape.

This evolving dynamic raises important questions about collaboration, accountability, and future-proofing for business leaders, security managers, and installers. Let's explore how IT's influence reshapes physical security and what it means for those working in the built environment.

Why IT Is Driving the Change and How It Benefits Physical Security

The shift of power towards IT departments can be traced directly to the digitisation of security systems. The days of analogue CCTV and standalone access control systems are long gone, replaced by IP cameras, cloud-based platforms, and AI-enhanced surveillance tools—all of which depend on IT infrastructure.

Here's why IT is taking charge:

1. Cybersecurity Comes First. Modern security systems are connected to corporate networks, making them potential targets for cybercriminals. IT departments have the expertise to implement robust cybersecurity measures, so it's natural for them to take ownership of these systems.
2. Centralisation and Efficiency IT's focus on streamlining and integrating systems aligns perfectly with networked security platforms. Centralised management tools simplify operations and allow IT teams to maintain oversight and control.
3. The Data Imperative Today's security systems generate vast amounts of data. IT professionals excel at collecting, analysing, and securing this data, positioning themselves as indispensable in deploying data-driven security solutions.
4. Influence from Vendors Many security vendors now target IT departments as their primary clients, recognising their growing role in specifying and purchasing decisions. As a result, IT is often seen as the gatekeeper for new technologies.

Challenges for Security Professionals

IT's increasing dominance may feel like a double-edged sword for security managers. While their involvement brings expertise and resources, it can also undermine the autonomy and authority of the security team. Key challenges include:

1. Reduced Autonomy Security professionals may find their knowledge overshadowed by IT priorities. Systems designed for optimal network performance might not always meet practical security needs.
2. Skills Gap To stay relevant, security managers must become conversant in IT concepts such as cloud infrastructure, network protocols, and cybersecurity standards. This steep learning curve can be daunting but essential.
3. Blurred Lines of Responsibility With IT and security teams sharing responsibility for system performance, maintenance, and incident response, clear accountability can become murky, creating potential operational vulnerabilities.

Implications for Security Installers

Security installers face their own set of challenges as IT takes a more prominent role in physical security. The demands of integrating advanced technologies with existing infrastructure are reshaping their responsibilities:

1. Technical Complexity Installers are now expected to configure networked devices, troubleshoot cybersecurity issues, and work within IT frameworks—tasks that extend far beyond traditional installation.
2. Client Expectations With IT departments involved, clients often demand higher levels of technical expertise, forcing installers to expand their skill sets or collaborate with IT specialists.
3. Increased Competition IT service providers are entering the security market, offering turnkey solutions that include installation and management. This encroachment creates competitive pressure for traditional installers.

Opportunities in Collaboration

Despite these challenges, the convergence of IT and physical security opens up significant opportunities for all involved:

1. Building Partnerships: Security managers and IT teams must work together to design and implement systems that meet both operational and technical needs. Collaboration can result in smarter, more integrated solutions.
2. Upskilling for Relevance For security professionals and installers, gaining IT knowledge is no longer optional. Training in cybersecurity principles, network integration, and data management can enhance career prospects and professional value.
3. Enhanced Security Through Data IT integration allows organisations to harness the full potential of security systems' data. From predictive analytics to resource optimisation, data-driven insights can significantly improve security outcomes.

For Business Leaders: Balancing Priorities

As decision-makers, business leaders must navigate the growing interplay between IT and physical security. To ensure the best outcomes, consider the following:

• Encourage Collaboration: Promote open communication and joint planning between IT and security teams to foster shared ownership of systems.
• Weigh Priorities: Ensure that both security functionality and IT requirements are addressed during procurement and implementation.
• Invest in Training: Support skills development for security professionals, enabling them to work effectively in an IT-driven environment.
• Stay Ahead of the Curve: Monitor emerging trends and technologies to future-proof your organisation's security strategy. As decision-makers, monitoring?emerging trends and technologies to future-proof your organisation's security strategy is crucial.?By staying ahead of the curve, you can ensure that your security systems are always at the forefront of innovation, making your organisation more resilient and secure.…

Looking Ahead

The IT takeover of physical security is not a fleeting trend but a fundamental shift in how organisations protect their people, assets, and data. This transformation requires adaptation from all sides—security teams, IT departments, and installers alike.

Organisations can build more resilient, efficient, and effective systems by fostering collaboration, embracing continuous learning, and leveraging the strengths of both IT and security disciplines. The key is recognising that this convergence is an opportunity, not a threat.

What are your thoughts?

How is IT's growing influence impacting your approach to physical security? Please share your experiences, and let's continue the conversation. Your insights can help us all navigate this evolving landscape more effectively.

Note: The Security Thoughts on Thursday articles are intended to stimulate free thinking and should not be considered consultancy or definitive advice. Please share your experiences and insights in the comments below.

Content assistance provided by OpenAI's ChatGPT

• Physical Security
• IT Integration
• Cybersecurity
• Networked Systems
• Security Technology