SIA Publishes New Report on Operational Security Technology, Highlighting Key Trends and Best Practices
The Security Industry Association (SIA) has published a comprehensive new report titled “Operational Security Technology: Principles, Challenges and How to Achieve Mission-Critical Outcomes Leveraging OST.” Authored by industry experts John Deskurakis and Chris Lynch, the report offers critical insights into the effective use of technology to support physical security missions, especially targeting the needs of small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs).
Operational Security Technology (OST), defined by the report as the underlying technological components essential for supporting and automating physical security operations, is increasingly recognized as mission-critical infrastructure. The authors emphasize the importance of understanding the nuances and complexities associated with selecting, integrating, and maintaining OST systems.
“Clear understanding of the principles, challenges, and purpose-built solutions will better ensure achieving mission-critical outcomes while leveraging operational security technologies to defend and provide seamless continuity for your business,” the report states.
The SIA report outlines several key categories of OST, including:
- Physical Access Control Systems (PACS)
- Surveillance Systems
- Detection Systems (Alarms and Sensors)
- Perimeter & Environmental Security (PES)
- Security Management Platforms
Notably, the report emphasizes growing convergence between physical access control systems (PACS) and identity and access management (IAM) technologies. Authentication and identity verification remain critical elements, with biometrics playing a significant role in modern PACS deployments.
The report identifies biometrics as a key element within PACS, advocating for a “risk-based approach” when selecting authentication methods.
Key operational challenges identified in the report include interoperability between legacy and emerging technologies, managing cloud-based systems, and addressing the ongoing threat of false alarms from detection systems. The report provides practical strategies to mitigate these challenges, emphasizing early engagement with trusted security and technology partners.
SIA underscores that small and medium-sized businesses can now leverage sophisticated technologies, such as centralized security operations centers (PSOCs), in accessible and cost-effective ways, democratizing access to advanced security management tools previously reserved for larger enterprises.
The release of this report closely follows SIA’s recent announcement naming access control expert Lee Odess to its board of directors, highlighting SIA’s ongoing commitment to strengthening its leadership and expertise in physical security and access control technologies.
Security industry professionals and SMBs interested in optimizing their OST deployments can access the full report through the Security Industry Association’s website.
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March 27, 2025 – by Cass Kennedy and Alex Perala
