The Evolution of Physical Security: From Surveillance to Operational Intelligence

Defining a New Technological Category

Creating a new category in technology is inherently challenging because it requires a common language—one that people can reference and understand. Take lightning, for example. Before we could define it scientifically, we had to establish the language to describe its properties.

The same challenge applies to AI in cameras. It doesn’t fit neatly into existing categories like Video Management Systems (VMS), traditional analytics, or simple sensors. Nor is it sensor-based access control. These legacy systems lack the language and framework necessary to encapsulate the transformative impact of Computer Vision AI.

The solution? VisionOps, a new paradigm that defines the outcomes and capabilities of AI-driven computer vision.

Beyond Observation: AI-Powered Vision

Computer vision is already reshaping industries—powering autonomous vehicles, enhancing manufacturing quality control, and advancing medical diagnostics. In essence, these are all applications of AI interpreting visual data.

Just as our eyes and brains serve multiple functions beyond sight, computer vision AI is not limited to a single purpose. Its impact is only constrained by the intelligence we develop and apply. This is particularly true in security, where AI-driven vision is transforming how we protect people, assets, and operations.

From Passive Surveillance to Video-Powered Intelligence (VPI)

Physical security is undergoing a profound transformation. What was once a system of passive surveillance is now evolving into Video-Powered Intelligence (VPI)—a shift where cameras are no longer just tools for observation but become dynamic drivers of operational efficiency and safety.

This transformation introduces a groundbreaking concept: Operational Intelligence—the seamless integration of visual data, AI, and automation to redefine what’s possible in security and beyond.

What is Video-Powered Intelligence (VPI)?

VPI represents the convergence of computer vision and AI, turning cameras into intelligent operational sensors that analyze visual data in real time. This enables powerful new capabilities, such as:

• Access Control & People Counting – Enhancing security and occupancy management
• Forensic Search & Incident Analysis – Rapidly pinpointing critical events
• Predictive Safety Measures – Proactively preventing risks before they escalate

The result is VisionOps—a unified, AI-powered ecosystem where security is proactive, precise, and indispensable.

Why Computer Vision AI is the Future

The adoption of AI-driven vision is inevitable. Here’s why:

1. The Ubiquity of Cameras

Cameras are the most widely deployed IoT devices, making them the ideal foundation for AI-powered operational intelligence.

2. Real-Time, Actionable Insights

AI enables instant analysis of visual data, empowering organizations to respond faster and make informed decisions.

3. Cost Efficiency Through Existing Infrastructure

By leveraging current camera systems, businesses can minimize costs while significantly expanding functionality.

4. Scalability for Any Size Operation

Computer vision AI can scale effortlessly, from small businesses to global enterprises.

5. Enhanced Accuracy & Reduced Human Error

AI-powered systems eliminate biases and inconsistencies inherent in manual monitoring, ensuring reliable and objective results.

6. Seamless Integration Across Platforms

AI-driven vision seamlessly integrates with existing security, automation, and business intelligence systems.

7. Future-Proof Innovation

As AI continues to evolve, so does the potential of visual data—ensuring long-term value and adaptability.

Operational Intelligence: A Unified Ecosystem

The shift from reactive to proactive security is redefining the industry. Operational Intelligence integrates security, safety, and efficiency into a cohesive, AI-powered framework.

This approach ensures:

• Enhanced Safety & Risk Reduction – Predicting and preventing threats before they happen
• Streamlined Operations – Automating processes and optimizing workflows Increased
• Efficiency – Eliminating outdated, siloed systems in favor of a unified platform

The Inevitable Future of Physical Security

The transition from traditional security to Operational Intelligence isn’t just a possibility—it’s inevitable. By transforming cameras into intelligent operational sensors and leveraging Video-Powered Intelligence (VPI), businesses can unlock unprecedented levels of safety, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness.

The question is no longer if organizations will adopt these advancements, but when.

While other sensory IoT devices are being deployed to gather intelligence that do not use visual AI, camera systems and their manufacturers have made the most up to date and reliable advancements in network security, especially in 802.1x. Most other devices used by security to try and gather this intelligence struggle to provide enterprise and unified network security measures like 802.1x. Such as printers, key cabinets, intercom systems etc etc. Expanding your IoT infrastructure using cameras and visual AI poses no additional threat from malicious attackers when the camera industry is strong in network security today - Jamie Connor

Final Thought: Choosing the Right Partners

This evolution is not just theoretical—it’s practical. As organizations move swiftly to adopt AI-driven vision systems, one critical truth is becoming clear: we do not have unlimited resources to feed multiple vision platforms.

This makes it imperative to choose partners who are committed to building comprehensive, scalable solutions—those who embrace and solve as many operational challenges as possible within a unified ecosystem.

VisionOps is not just the future—it’s the present. And those who recognize its potential early will define the next era of security and operational intelligence.

Special thanks to contributors to this article: Alon Dancig-Perlman James Connor Jamie Connor Celine Broomhead Rehan Reddy