Why Security Technology Convergence is Crucial to Future-Proofing the Workplace

Today’s commercial technology stacks are increasingly leveraging IoT and the cloud to make managing businesses more efficient: people are more reliant on technology in order to use, access, and manage their offices. This trend holds true for workplace security systems, too. Now, we’re seeing higher mobile credential adoption for commercial access control systems, increased migration to cloud-based providers, and Statista predicts that there will be over 70 billion IoT-connected devices globally by 2025.

However, more systems doesn’t always mean better security. And with more passwords, logins, and network-connected technologies at play, expect to see an uptick in hacking attempts and security risks. In fact, the U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) identified 10 common cybersecurity vulnerabilities linked to physical security weaknesses. When it comes to maintaining the security of workplace IT and technology systems, a holistic approach to physical and cybersecurity can help teams create a more robust, efficient, and future-proof security posture.

What is security convergence, and why does it matter?

When it comes to physical security and cybersecurity strategies, many companies still structure these teams and technology stacks as separate entities, managed entirely independently of one another. But by bringing them together, also known as security convergence, IT and security teams work in collaboration, with shared goals and datastreams.

Migrating to this holistic approach can be a big undertaking, but that’s where technology plays a role. Cloud-based IT and security technologies are generally more interoperable, and primed to function as an interconnected system, giving teams a broader view of security network activity.

While some on-premises systems support integration and offer cloud-connected options it’s important to understand any limitations of your existing system when it comes to establishing a truly future-proof IT and security stack. Because speed is critical to identifying and mitigating security vulnerabilities, an efficient, interoperable security technology stack that addresses both cyber and physical security as a single system is a powerful tool in future-proofing the workplace.

The impact of security technology convergence for business IT

In any business organization, change is inevitable. The need for organizations to be able to adapt quickly to new standards and expectations is crucial to success. A future-proof security technology system is one that provides all the necessary protection and features now, but is also ready to support the newest features and functionalities (preferably with easy and automatic updates) to address new vulnerabilities and challenges. Converged technology systems help create a more future-proof environment in three key ways:

Collaboration between systems and teams
With more hybrid and remote work happening across industries, technology plays a vital role in keeping disparate teams informed and focused. Convergence takes a more proactive approach to security, giving teams the ability to detect potential problems before they occur, rather than reacting after the fact. Being able to identify and address issues remotely is essential in today’s IT landscape. Investing in mobile-ready and cloud-based systems allows remote teams to respond as needed, without sacrificing productivity or convenience.
Opens the door for automations and smarter operations
A future-proof technology stack should help teams work smarter, not harder. When considering a converged security technology infrastructure, interoperability is one of the most important factors to consider. If existing systems can’t communicate with each other, or are not compatible with the new systems you plan to implement, there will be redundancies, lag time in reponses, and more frustration among staff. New cloud technologies that leverage inter-system automations can help streamline day-to-day operations, such as running reports, freeing up teams to focus on what’s most important. AI technology is also a great way to do more with less investment, helping staff pinpoint potential vulnerabilities before they become a larger problem.
Combined data streams for improved business insights
One of the most overlooked benefits of security technology convergence is all of the data that is now at your fingertips. With connected, cloud-based security systems, data can be aggregated from across different technologies, making for more informed decision-making and improved analytics. With combined data from a commercial door entry system, video analytics software, identity services, and cybersecurity reports, technology managers can more easily identify trends in usage and activity. Leveraging AI business analytics tools can also help improve the accuracy and efficiency of audits over time.

Questions to ask before updating your business’s security technology

There are many different security system integrators and technology providers in the market, but not all of them offer future-proof or the right customized solutions for your business.

Before you start investing in all-new security technologies for your business, it’s important to take a look at what you currently have, and if it’s working.

Ask yourself these five questions to determine what security technology systems need to be updated, and how to plan a successful migration to a converged security strategy:

Where are there redundancies across teams and processes, and can they be streamlined with convergence?
Where is there a lack of visibility, or gaps within the existing security systems?
Can the current system support cloud-based operation with remote functionality?
Do existing systems have the capability to support the integration and automation necessary to address security gaps or redundancies?
How scalable are your current solutions, and do they have the ability to adapt quickly should your security needs change?