Looking back on 2023

Cloud-based solutions gained significant traction in the security industry by 2023, delivering added value to dealers and customers. Similarly, video analytics cemented its role not only in security but also in business intelligence, organisational efficiency, employee safety, compliance, energy efficiency and overall situational awareness. Brad believes that this will only accelerate during 2024 and continue to have an impact on the way that security based technology is specified and installed.

AI will be a key focus in 2024

As with most other business sectors, artificial intelligence (AI) will be a key focus in 2024 and will build on its ability to reduce nuisance alarms, detect suspicious behaviour, provide greater insights and facilitate faster response times. Brad McMullen thinks that where AI is set to really revolutionise security is through predictive analytics that allow security cameras to be ‘trained’ to identify suspicious activities in real-time, potentially preventing criminal acts from occurring. AI can also be used to analyse data from other sensors, such as motion sensors, door sensors and temperature sensors to detect anomalies and identify potential security threats.

Supporting client needs

Although National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) compliance has been hitting the headlines, it feeds into the wider issue about how and where products are manufactured. "The need to ensure customer data is secure and not vulnerable will continue to be a high priority area and the Cyber Resilience Act (CRA) will be a critical focus for all areas of the industry including manufacturers, developers, installers, service providers and hosting providers. Ensuring products continue to come from reputable and trusted sources will be vital, so the NDAA and CRA will therefore work hand in hand," says Brad. "On a geopolitical level, we are living in a world where often times threats and risks are increasing for businesses in regard to protecting their people, their assets and their customers. The security industry will need to continue to grow to support the everchanging needs of our collective client base."

Brad McMullen is the President of Security Products & Solutions, a division of Securitas Technology that encompasses the 3xlogic, Sonitrol and Pacom brands. Brad has more than 20 years of experience and achievements across product development, product marketing, commercialization and leadership roles.