Successful security implementation requires careful planning and strategic collaboration - an area where integrators play a critical role.
As businesses increasingly embrace digital transformation, the traditional silos of physical and IT security are dissolving. Organizations are now expected to integrate these two domains seamlessly, ensuring compliance with stringent regulations while leveraging smart technologies for improved safety and operational efficiency.
However, successful implementation requires careful planning and strategic collaboration - an area where security integrators play a critical role.
In a recent conversation with asmag.com, Boudewijn Pesch, Vice President of Japan and Asia Pacific Channel Sales at Verkada, highlighted the growing need for cooperation between IT and physical security teams.
“If an organization’s physical security team doesn’t sit within the same functional organization as its IT team, first, start the conversation between them,” Pesch said. “Integrators play a critical cross-functional role when they help encourage or even create an open line of communication.”
The role of cloud-enabled security solutions
The shift towards cloud-based security systems is making this integration easier. Cloud platforms not only align with IT workflows but also offer seamless interoperability with existing digital infrastructure.
Pesch sees cloud-enabled physical security systems as a clear choice for organizations looking to streamline their security strategies.
“They’re also not just easy to incorporate into an already cloud-dominated tech stack, but they’re also generally easier to use,” Pesch explained. With IT teams increasingly overseeing physical security technology, ease of integration and usability have become key decision-making factors.
Compliance as a driving force
Regulatory requirements are accelerating the convergence of physical and cybersecurity measures. From data privacy mandates to industry-specific security standards, businesses must adopt a unified approach to security that satisfies compliance obligations.
“Compliance and regulations are actually driving the integration of physical and cybersecurity solutions,” Pesch noted.
For instance, the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) mandates strict controls over personal data access. This has made physical security tools - such as restricted access to data centers and audit logs - essential components of cybersecurity strategies. Likewise, SOC 2 compliance enforces rigorous measures, including role-based access control (RBAC), encryption, and audit trails, across both physical and digital security domains.
“As requirements and regulations evolve, organizations will increasingly need to adopt a unified security strategy that brings both physical and cyber together,” Pesch added.
The expanding role of security systems in operational technology
Beyond security convergence, the growing overlap between security and operational technology (OT) presents new opportunities. Smart buildings and connected security infrastructure are enabling businesses to derive insights beyond traditional safety applications.
“The connected, smart building is no longer a concept - it’s a reality that is enabling organizations to gather data and insights for use cases far beyond traditional safety and security,” Pesch explained.
Security technology is evolving from a reactive tool into a proactive intelligence source, improving both security and operational efficiency. AI-powered cameras, access control systems, and environmental sensors are now capable of supporting broader infrastructure, from point-of-sale systems to manufacturing processes.
“For example, heat mapping analytics from security cameras can help organizations analyze foot traffic patterns to optimize building layouts, improve space utilization, and enhance customer or employee experiences,” Pesch noted. “Or on an assembly line, to quickly search for footage when chips, dents, or dings may have occurred.”
How integrators can stay ahead
To remain competitive, security integrators must embrace this technological shift and position themselves as enablers of seamless integration. This means not only providing security platforms but also actively supporting customers in their implementation strategies.
“This is an incredible opportunity for integrators to not only provide the platforms and solutions that enable this kind of easy integration but also to support their customers in implementing those integrations,” Pesch said.
Privacy and security remain top concerns, especially as video footage becomes accessible to a wider range of users within an organization. Cloud-based systems offer a significant advantage in this regard by simplifying access controls and ensuring compliance with privacy standards.
“Cloud systems provide ease of use that empowers more users to access and leverage video footage in a safe and privacy-respecting way,” Pesch emphasized.
The future of security integration
As security threats become increasingly complex, businesses can no longer afford to treat physical and IT security as separate domains.
The integration of these functions is not just a technical necessity but a strategic
imperative driven by compliance requirements, technological advancements, and operational efficiencies.
Security integrators have a unique opportunity to lead this transition by fostering cross-functional collaboration, offering cloud-enabled solutions, and supporting organizations in building a security framework that is both comprehensive and future-proof.
By doing so, they will not only enhance security outcomes for their clients but also secure their own relevance in a rapidly evolving market.
Expanding integration beyond security
The integration of security technology with broader business operations is an evolving trend that is reshaping industries. As artificial intelligence and machine learning capabilities advance, the data collected from security systems is increasingly being leveraged for business intelligence, predictive analytics, and process optimization.
For example, businesses in retail can utilize AI-powered security cameras to analyze customer behavior, track shopping patterns, and enhance customer service. Similarly, manufacturing facilities can integrate security systems with quality control processes, using automated monitoring to detect defects in real time.
By adopting a broader approach to security integration, businesses can maximize their return on investment (ROI) while achieving higher efficiency and operational effectiveness.
Addressing cybersecurity risks in a connected security landscape
As physical security systems become more connected, they also become more vulnerable to cyber threats. Integrators must be proactive in addressing cybersecurity risks, ensuring that security devices and networks are protected against potential breaches.
Implementing best practices such as zero-trust security models, end-to-end encryption, and continuous monitoring can mitigate risks and safeguard critical infrastructure. Additionally, educating end users about cybersecurity threats and secure usage practices can further enhance system resilience.
Security integrators who emphasize cybersecurity as part of their service offerings will not only enhance client trust but also future-proof their business against emerging threats.
Conclusion: a holistic approach to security
The convergence of physical and IT security, driven by regulatory requirements, technological advancements, and operational efficiencies, is an irreversible trend. Organizations must adopt a holistic security approach that integrates both domains seamlessly, leveraging cloud-enabled solutions, AI-powered analytics, and advanced cybersecurity measures.
For security integrators, this presents a significant opportunity to lead the charge by providing innovative solutions, fostering collaboration, and delivering value beyond traditional security applications. By staying ahead of industry trends and proactively addressing challenges, integrators can position themselves as indispensable partners in the evolving security landscape.
As security continues to evolve, businesses that embrace this convergence will be better equipped to protect their assets, optimize operations, and navigate the complex digital landscape of the future.