Why CIOs are paying closer attention to physical security

In recent years, physical security has started to capture the attention of Chief Information Officers (CIOs) due to its integration with modern technology systems. Unlike in the past, when CCTV, access controls, and alarms were managed by separate facilities or security teams, today's physical security systems run on cloud platforms, connect with enterprise networks, generate large volumes of operational data, and utilize artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance efficiency and response times.

These advancements have elevated physical security to become an integral part of the broader technology ecosystem within organizations. As a result, CIOs are increasingly involved in decisions related to the deployment, integration, and governance of these systems. The convergence of physical and cyber security risks has also become a significant concern, as breaches in physical security can lead to cybersecurity incidents and vice versa.

Legacy physical security infrastructure, such as on-premise video management systems, often requires dedicated servers, regular software upgrades, and specialist maintenance, which can be complex and resource-intensive. This has led many CIOs to reconsider their approach to physical security, as managing such systems can consume significant time, budget, and internal resources.

However, modern cloud-based physical security platforms offer several advantages, including automatic software updates, centralized management across multiple sites, and improved visibility without the need for constant infrastructure investments. Additionally, the data generated by these systems can provide valuable insights into various aspects of business operations, such as retail queue wait times, operational bottlenecks, and health and safety incidents.

As organizations increasingly treat physical security as another enterprise data source, AI capabilities are becoming more critical in improving productivity and addressing associated governance challenges. Establishing clear ownership, policies, and oversight for physical security, similar to other enterprise platforms, is essential to ensure responsible use of AI technologies and compliance with evolving regulations.