How Are Cloud and AI Transforming Security in ANZ?

Emerging technologies such as cloud computing and artificial intelligence (AI) are revolutionizing the physical security landscape in Australia and New Zealand (ANZ). Andrew Elvish, Vice President of Global Marketing at Genetec, shares insights from the 2025 State of Physical Security Report, highlighting key trends and challenges.

Economic Uncertainty and Its Influence on Security Trends

Impact of Economic Instability

Economic uncertainty is a significant concern for security professionals in the ANZ region. According to the report, 54% of respondents identified inflation and financial instability as major factors affecting project timelines. As inflation rates escalate and financial instability looms large, organizations are increasingly prioritizing economic stability in their security operations. The challenging economic backdrop is prompting security professionals to exercise caution, leading them to seek stability and reliability in their security solutions, avoiding ventures into unproven territories. This approach ensures that investments are safeguarded, and projects can progress despite financial constraints.

Elvish’s observations reflect this careful approach, indicating a marked preference for strategies that mitigate financial risk. Instead of experimenting with new, untested technologies, organizations are focusing on time-tested, reliable solutions. This is a clear departure from the norm, driven by the desire to sustain operations without the additional burden of potential technological failures. As businesses navigate these turbulent times, the emphasis remains on ensuring that every penny spent on security yields tangible returns, thereby justifying the investment.

Preference for Proven Solutions

In light of financial challenges, there is a reduced willingness to experiment with untested solutions. Organizations are opting for established leaders and proven technologies to ensure stability. Elvish notes that this trend reflects a broader desire for expertise and reliability in navigating the uncertain economic landscape. This preference underscores a significant departure from conventional practices, where innovation and experimentation were often encouraged. The shift towards proven solutions is not merely about seeking stability; it is about minimizing risks while maximizing efficacy. Security professionals are now more inclined to partner with seasoned security providers, guaranteeing that the systems they deploy have a track record of success.

Moreover, the preference for proven solutions speaks to a deeper understanding of the symbiotic relationship between security and business operations. In uncertain economic times, a stabilized security framework can support uninterrupted business activities, thereby contributing to overall organizational resilience. According to Elvish, this trend is reflective of a more cautious yet pragmatic approach to security management, where expertise and reliability are paramount. This paradigm shift marks a new chapter in the ANZ region’s security landscape, one where stability and reliability are the guiding principles.

Hybrid Cloud Adoption and Open Security Platforms

Shift Toward Hybrid Cloud Solutions

To address the need for cost-effective and flexible security solutions, there is a growing shift towards hybrid cloud adoption. Security professionals are looking to maximize their existing investments rather than starting from scratch. Hybrid cloud models offer a “bridge to the future,” leveraging current infrastructure while providing flexibility. This balance allows organizations to make the most of their previous investments while gradually integrating new technological advancements. Hybrid cloud solutions emerge as the perfect answer, enabling companies to continue utilizing their current systems while also benefiting from the scalability and flexibility that cloud-based models provide.

Elvish articulates that the hybrid cloud approach is becoming increasingly essential for organizations aiming to future-proof their security operations. Instead of discarding old systems and incurring the cost of implementing entirely new ones, the hybrid cloud model enables a seamless upgrade path. This gradual transition is especially beneficial in times of economic stress, where budgets are tight, but the need for enhanced security remains critical. By adopting a hybrid cloud strategy, organizations can ensure uninterrupted security operations while progressively incorporating advanced technologies.

Emphasis on Openness and Flexibility

Openness in security solutions is becoming increasingly important. Traditional vertical integration is giving way to more flexible approaches that allow integration with both legacy systems and new technologies. Elvish emphasizes that “one size fits none,” highlighting the need for adaptable solutions in today’s security environment. This shift towards openness is driven by the realization that security systems must evolve in tandem with organizational needs and technological advancements. Security solutions that allow for integration with existing infrastructure while being open to new innovations present a more sustainable and adaptable approach.

The trend toward open security platforms is also a response to the rapidly changing landscape of cybersecurity threats. As the nature of threats evolves, so too must the tools and strategies used to combat them. Open platforms enable organizations to adopt the best-of-breed solutions, ensuring that they are always equipped with the most effective technologies. This flexibility is crucial in maintaining a resilient security posture capable of responding to diverse and dynamic threats. Elvish’s advocacy for flexible, open solutions underscores the necessity of adaptability in maintaining robust security systems capable of meeting current and future challenges.

Challenges in Recruitment and Workforce Optimization

Labor Shortages in ANZ

Labor shortages, particularly in Australia and New Zealand, present a significant challenge for the security industry. The high cost of hiring and the need for better cooperation between IT and physical security teams are pressing issues. Over 70% of end-users cite the need for improved collaboration. The shortage of skilled professionals exacerbates the challenge, making it imperative for organizations to find innovative ways to optimize their workforce. Labor shortages, especially in an industry as critical as security, can lead to delays in project implementation, increased costs, and reduced operational efficiency.

Elvish highlights the pressing need for a more integrated approach, where IT and physical security teams work in unison to leverage their combined expertise. This collaboration is crucial to overcoming the limitations posed by a constrained workforce. As the demand for skilled professionals continues to outstrip supply, organizations must adopt strategies that maximize the effectiveness of their existing personnel. Investing in training and development programs, fostering better interdepartmental communication, and adopting technologies that enhance productivity are essential steps in addressing labor shortages.

Unified Platform Strategy

Genetec’s unified platform strategy addresses these workforce challenges by consolidating core security functions into a single interface. This integration reduces training time and enhances the efficiency of a limited workforce. The Genetec Operations Center further streamlines workforce management by digitizing tasks traditionally handled manually. By centralizing diverse functions such as video surveillance, access control, number plate recognition, and intrusion systems, the unified platform minimizes the complexity of managing multiple disparate systems. This simplification is key to enhancing workforce productivity, enabling security teams to operate more efficiently and effectively.

The integration offered by Genetec’s platform not only optimizes workforce management but also improves operational fluidity. With all critical functions accessible through a single interface, security professionals can respond more swiftly and decisively to incidents. This streamlined approach also reduces the potential for errors, as it eliminates the need for constant shifting between different systems. By digitizing manual tasks and providing real-time updates and coordination across locations, the Genetec Operations Center enhances overall situational awareness, leading to more informed decision-making and better security outcomes.

Integration of IT and Physical Security

Convergence of Security Systems and IT Infrastructure

The integration of security systems with IT infrastructure is transforming security from a cost center to a strategic asset. This convergence enhances organizational resilience and future planning. IT teams now recognize security devices as network endpoints, necessitating a mutual understanding of cybersecurity best practices and physical security challenges. The convergence of IT and security systems represents the next logical step in the evolution of organizational security. It extends the capabilities of IT infrastructure to encompass physical security measures, creating a more cohesive and comprehensive approach to safeguarding assets and data.

Elvish points out that this convergence brings about significant advantages by enabling more effective threat detection and response. As security devices are integrated into the wider IT network, real-time data sharing and analysis become possible. This integration enhances organizational resilience, facilitating proactive security measures and more effective incident management. Moreover, by treating security as an integral component of IT infrastructure, organizations can streamline their operations, reducing redundancy, and maximizing resource utilization. This collaborative approach ensures that security measures are aligned with overall IT strategies, leading to a more fortified and adaptive security posture.

Strategic Asset Transformation

Elvish highlights that this shift is not just about technology but also about changing perceptions. Security is increasingly seen as a strategic asset that can enhance overall organizational resilience. This transformation requires a collaborative approach between IT and physical security teams. By recognizing security systems as critical components of the IT network, organizations can unlock new levels of operational efficiency and strategic value. This paradigm shift necessitates a mutual understanding and cooperation between IT and security teams, fostering a unified approach to protecting organizational assets and data.

The strategic asset transformation goes beyond mere technological integration; it reflects a holistic view of security’s role within the organization. By viewing security as a strategic asset, companies can leverage it to enhance their competitive advantage, improve customer trust, and ensure business continuity. This perspective encourages a more investment-minded approach to security, where the benefits extend to all facets of the organization. Elvish emphasizes that this transformation is essential for building a resilient and future-ready security framework, capable of supporting the organization’s long-term objectives and navigating the complexities of an evolving threat landscape.

Pragmatic Adoption of AI in Security

Cautious Approach to AI

AI remains a significant but cautiously approached topic in the security industry. Elvish humorously remarks that AI sometimes stands for “absolute ignorance,” stressing that AI should be viewed as a tool for achieving specific outcomes rather than an end in itself. This cautious approach is crucial in ensuring that AI applications in security are both effective and reliable. AI’s potential to revolutionize security is immense, but its implementation must be guided by a clear understanding of its capabilities and limitations. This pragmatic view of AI adoption helps organizations avoid the pitfalls of overreliance on technology without fully understanding its implications.

Elvish’s remarks highlight the importance of a measured approach to AI integration. Instead of blindly adopting AI technologies, security professionals are encouraged to critically evaluate how AI can best serve their specific needs. By focusing on targeted outcomes, organizations can harness AI’s analytical power without compromising on human judgment and intuition. This balanced approach ensures that AI complements human capabilities, enhancing overall security effectiveness. The cautious adoption of AI reflects a broader industry trend, where technology is leveraged thoughtfully and strategically, rather than hastily and indiscriminately.

Intelligent Automation and Transparency

Genetec’s approach to AI focuses on intelligent automation, leveraging computers’ ability to analyze vast amounts of data while allowing humans to excel in judgment and intuition. Transparency in AI decision-making is crucial, as black-box decisions can be dangerous without understanding the rationale behind AI-generated conclusions. Intelligent automation enables more efficient and accurate data processing, allowing security teams to make better-informed decisions. By combining AI’s data analytical strengths with human intuition, organizations can achieve a more robust and responsive security posture.

Transparency in AI decision-making is a critical component of Genetec’s approach. Elvish underscores the importance of understanding the rationale behind AI-generated conclusions, as opaque, “black-box” decisions can lead to unintended consequences. Ensuring transparency helps build trust in AI systems and enables security professionals to effectively interpret and act upon AI-driven insights. This transparency is essential for maintaining accountability and mitigating risks associated with automated decision-making. By fostering a clear understanding of AI processes, organizations can ensure that AI tools are used responsibly and effectively, maximizing their benefits while minimizing potential drawbacks.

Genetec’s Commitment to Industry Education

Importance of Education and Training

As security technology evolves, the need for education and training becomes paramount. Genetec is actively working to educate industry professionals on effectively leveraging AI, cloud, and automation technologies. This commitment builds on Genetec’s history of educational initiatives, such as the 2014 Security of Security roadshow focused on cybersecurity awareness. Education and training are essential for equipping professionals with the skills and knowledge needed to navigate the complexities of modern security technologies. By investing in educational programs, Genetec ensures that industry professionals stay informed and adaptable, keeping pace with technological advancements.

Elvish emphasizes that education is a vital component in the successful adoption of emerging security technologies. By providing comprehensive training programs, Genetec helps security professionals understand and implement advanced tools and strategies. This proactive approach not only enhances individual competencies but also contributes to the overall security capabilities of organizations. Education initiatives ensure that professionals are well-prepared to leverage new technologies to their fullest potential, thereby enhancing the effectiveness and efficiency of security operations.

Ongoing Educational Initiatives

Genetec continues to apply a similar approach to AI and automation, ensuring that industry professionals are well-equipped to navigate the changing security landscape. This focus on education underscores the importance of staying informed and adaptable in a rapidly evolving industry. By offering ongoing training and support, Genetec helps professionals keep up with the latest developments and best practices in security technology. These educational initiatives are crucial for fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement within the security industry.

Elvish underscores that staying ahead of the curve requires a commitment to continuous education and professional development. By empowering security professionals with the latest knowledge and skills, Genetec ensures that they can confidently and effectively integrate new technologies into their operations. This commitment to industry education not only enhances the capabilities of individual professionals but also strengthens the overall resilience and adaptability of the security sector. Through ongoing educational initiatives, Genetec plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of security, ensuring that professionals are well-prepared to tackle emerging challenges and capitalize on new opportunities.

Cloud computing offers the flexibility and scalability needed for modern security solutions, allowing businesses to store and access vast amounts of data without the burden of managing physical servers. On the other hand, AI enhances security by enabling advanced analytics, facial recognition, and predictive policing, helping organizations to identify and manage potential threats more efficiently.

As physical security continues to evolve, businesses in ANZ must stay informed about these technological advancements and adopt a proactive stance to ensure robust and resilient security frameworks.

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