The security industry is transforming, thanks to technology

By managing director of Corps Monitoring, Andrea Strong

In the past few years, artificial intelligence (AI) has made headlines for being a tool capable of completely transforming the working world as we know it. Though on-the-ground officers of security firms will always be needed, their work can be greatly enhanced by AI’s capabilities.

What is spoken of less are other technologies that will hugely advance day-to-day security operations. Virtual reality (VR) training for officers has already proven itself to be effective, despite being in its infancy stages. The integration of monitoring systems also offers the most immediately transformative change, as conjoining systems stands to immensely enhance building security.

Integrated platform monitoring

Platforms that combine different systems are already a priority in the FM industry – especially for larger organisations with complex asset management. By capturing data on building occupancy, power consumption, and health and safety, organisations can gather data on their building assets and use that information to maximise their building efficiency.

Similar principles apply to security monitoring. CCTV, access control, and fire and intruder alarm systems can be integrated into systems viewable from one place, so all data can be viewed and analysed as quickly as possible. These systems make false alarms less likely: for example, when the first authorised person accesses the building, this would let the system automatically deactivate.

Integration therefore prevents unnecessary activations being sent to the Alarm Receiving System.

These system changes can make organisations accountable for the monitoring of their premises and improve how reactive they are. The consolidation of data available can aid the efficiency and safety of security systems, and at times save on costs.

I anticipate that integrated monitoring systems will be used by security firms throughout the sector in coming years. However, this change cannot be immediate, as the regulatory requirements and management of all systems need assessment first.

The capabilities of AI

In terms of monitoring, AI technologies can enhance the human eye through advanced machine learning algorithms. AI facial recognition software can aid the monitoring of crowds in commercial spaces, especially through automated facial recognition. This technology uses biometric readings to identify potentially threatening people by spotting their physical traits in large crowds.

This application of AI is a promising advancement on crowd detection work, but it’s not developed enough for widespread use yet.

VR’s application to training

Virtual Reality (VR) technology can improve security officers’ training, better preparing them for a range of scenarios. VR can accurately simulate situations like patrolling, managing protests, suspect packages, aggressive individuals, and potential hostile reconnaissance.

The modules are only minutes-long and offer fast training options for new and experienced officers, simulating dangerous situations without putting them in harm’s way. Additionally, research has shown that VR technology has an average 75% retention rate, which is a huge learning advantage in comparison to traditional reading and writing methods, which have an average 5-10% retention rate.

VR training helps give officers the best toolkit for responding to situations they will face in the field. Though these programmes are not yet widely used throughout the industry, they are a promising and highly effective tool.

Prioritising the PTSN switchover

Though these technologies have incredible potential, there’s one major advancement security firms and organisations need to make first.

The public switched telephone network (PTSN) is due to be switched off in December 2025, meaning that any organisation reliant upon it will need to switch to voice over Internet protocol (VoIP) prior to that date.

The change to VoIP will send and receive signals at a faster rate, improving productivity and ensuring firms can speedily response to any scenario. The security industry is well aware of the switchover, but clients may not be ready for it just yet.

To ensure an overwhelming influx of change is not needed in early 2025, security firms that offer technical support will need to address their client’s needs. This way, we can help to usher in a newer, digitised era in a structured fashion.

2024: a promising year

The integration of monitoring systems, the potential uses of AI and VR, and the PTSN switchover all lay the groundwork for a new era of technologically enhanced security. The integration of security monitoring systems is leading the charge, ushering in new efficient and advanced ways to keep people, assets and buildings safe.