2021 was a year for transitioning and adapting. The security industry had to respond quickly as other industries returned to a new normal, and people started spending less time at home. The past couple of years has been unpredictable for everyone, including workers in the security industry. So, what’s next for physical security? We’ve put together a list of things of security trends that we believe will dominate in 2022.
Changes & Challenges that Security Companies faces in the past couple of years:
- Integrated security solutions became a must-have
With Covid restrictions and company policies changing every few weeks, more clients started looking for holistic approaches to security. Instead of hiring a guard to watch a near-empty building, or relying on just CCTV cameras, clients are really starting to understand the value of integrating security solutions. Doing this allows them to create efficiency. Hybrid strategies also support long-term cost savings. Using integrated solutions, clients can ask for guards when they need them the most but can use access control systems or cameras during less critical times. - Recruitment was challenging
Trying to fill empty positions has been a struggle for several industries; security was no different. Before the pandemic, security officers remained in the background most of the time. But they suddenly became essential frontline employees. They didn’t have the option of working from home and had to interact with dozens if not hundreds of people each day. Stores needed security guards more than ever to monitor long lines and ensure people respected capacity limits. Unfortunately, this led to some guards falling ill. Others left the industry altogether. - Technology became vital to security companies
There’s been a notable increase in the reliance security companies are placing on technology and innovation to support their growth and level of service. There is now more of a desire for resources and software solutions that will enable supervisors to manage their teams remotely. Guards are also more comfortable with touchless or low contact devices, such as mobile guard tour systems. The less equipment they must share, and the fewer surfaces they must touch, the better. Patrol Points lets guards complete tours using just a smartphone and the mobile app. They can also complete incident reports and check their schedules, all from their device.
Physical Security Trends that are emerging in 2022:
Artificial intelligence remains top of the agenda
Artificial intelligence (AI) is still the greatest force for change in the security industry. Topping our trends list for another year running AI’s potential continues to grow as machine learning improves.
The biggest shift we have seen in recent years is the point at which AI can really be useful. Rather than just being a forensic analysis tool that is used after an incident, AI’s capabilities and speed mean that it is fast becoming a preventative tool, enabling security professionals to stop crime from taking place.
As we move towards a model of preventative security, predictive data analytics is likely to gain even greater popularity. Advanced AI techniques like machine learning use predictive analytics to make statistical decisions about vast swathes of data – a method that is used in intelligent video analytics and other proactive monitoring solutions.
Companies will invest in robotic guard devices
Security officers are essential — As the world moves towards more remote security, we’re likely to see more robotic devices controlling access and even patrolling perimeters, especially on night shifts. That’s unlikely to eliminate guards completely — it will just take care of the grunt work and leave the problem-solving and decision making to one or two officers. There are distinct advantages to robotics over personnel other than the obvious cost savings and these will be increasingly realized. A hybrid approach to security using both personnel and robotics will be necessary for the newly emerging threats and hazards.
Training will evolve
With so many people working remotely, online training has had to replace traditional instructor-led training in many workplaces. Tabletop exercises, which often require several people sitting in one room, will have to change as well. We’re likely to see video games step in to address this challenge in the next few years, allowing remote workers to participate in simulations and tabletops without having to travel to one site.
Access control will evolve
Access control has been changing a lot over the last decade and next year is likely to continue the trend. Rather than using a badge to grant access, some companies are already using employees’ keychains, wallets, smartphones and other devices. Future technology may also go as far as to use microchips, although it’s a far fetch.
Access control will become more seamless
Access control has been changing a lot over the last decade, and improvements are expected to continue. Rather than using a badge or pass to grant access, some companies have already switched to systems that allow people to use their smartphones, and other devices, to gain access to restricted areas.
Drone security could make an appearance
Drones have become less expensive, and some organizations are using them for surveillance purposes. Unlike CCTV cameras, drones can move around to get any angle. Nevertheless, there are still some issues that may make companies think twice before investing in drone technology. They can be compromised by hackers or even physical attacks, and there are regulatory requirements that companies must be cautious of.
Automated vehicles will become more widespread
As more organizations start incorporating self-driving vehicles into their supply chain, security experts will need to weigh the risks of such vehicles being hacked, rerouted, or suffering other such attacks. Increasing the effectiveness of the supply chain for companies is critical, however, progress can also have risks.
Our Take
The security industry is always changing, which is one reason why it’s such an exciting field to work in. Some of the more traditional roles may become less popular as technology demonstrates its value to security guards and companies. Hybrid security strategies will be in demand. Clients will be seeking flexible solutions that align with their needs and budgets. Hence, MA Services Group started thinking about how we can stand as a risk management company as opposed to other security companies.
