Chapter 23

Security: Its Problems and Future

Goal: To look into the crystal ball and see what's ahead in the Security field.

Objective: to understand the impact of the future on the nature of the security industry.

Lecture:

This will be a short lecture. Read the text, Chapter 23. As far as I can see, the big challenge for a Security Manager will be in continuing to maintain good liaison with local, state, and federal law enforcement and intelligence agencies to make sure his/her facility knows what the threats are. For example, a retail store is more likely to be affected by shoplifters and insider theft than terrorist attack. On the other hand, a nuclear power plant is more likely to be affected by a terrorist attack than a shoplifter.

Another issue will be the continued reluctance or inability for law enforcement and intelligence agencies to share information. It still happens.

Another issue is the continued growth of the global economy. When my company was purchased a few years ago by an international company, the president and CEO of that company was not a U.S. citizen and could not get a security clearance. That caused major concerns. Security managers must also be prepared to protect people and facilities in more dangerous parts of the world. Imagine the concerns of the security director for an outfit like CNN, whose employees and equipment are constantly being sent to international hotspots.

Another issue will be the growth in use of technology to enhance security. Things like biometric security equipment will be more commonplace. But remember, people will still play a major role in the security organization.

Last, note that the text says the major concern will still be employee theft.

Whew! Except for the final, we are done. If you have any questions at this point, please post them to the Discussion Board.