Lessons and Excitement From SNG 2018
SIA Chairman Scott Schafer shares his takeaways from SNG 2018
The 2018 Securing New Ground (SNG) conference was the best gathering of security industry executives this year. The top security drivers of business were engaged in important discussions about the near-term and long-term opportunities and challenges for 2019 and the future.
The event started with a discussion about the Security Megatrends; there was lively discussion about the importance of companies recognizing and executing on these opportunities and concluded with views of the financial performance and condition of our industry.
SIA identified the 2019 Security Megatrends as the following:
- Cybersecurity Impact on Physical Security
- Internet of Things (IoT) and the Big Data Effect
- Cloud Computing
- Workforce Development
- Artificial Intelligence (AI)
- Emphasis on Data Privacy
- Move to Service Models
- Security Integrated in Smart Environments
- Advanced Digital Identities
- Impact of Consumer Electronics Companies
From my perspective, the key takeaways from SNG 2018 include the following:
Cybersecurity, Cybersecurity, Cybersecurity – Nearly every SNG session discussed the importance of having and executing a strong cybersecurity program internally and for your clients.
AI and Machine Learning – AI and machine learning systems will advance the industry and provide more value to end users. It was recommended that you start by using AI applications in your company so that when you are ready to market and service AI solutions, you will have an internal perspective of the benefits.
Alarm Signal Accuracy – Stronger leadership in the security industry is needed to reduce false alarms and improve response by driving security technologies that are available and can make a difference.
More Cloud Opportunities – Resellers and manufacturers need to embrace customer requests for strong cloud and SaaS solutions. This moves the expense into OPEX versus CAPEX.
Industry Excitement – The security industry is an exciting, attractive and technology-driven industry delving into IoT, cloud, big data, analytics, AI, cybersecurity, drones, robotics, SaaS and more.
The Workforce Challenge – Attracting new workers to the security industry is critical! High schools, trade schools, community colleges and universities are all excellent targets. Electrical engineering, software engineering, design engineering, robotics, criminology, analytics, international studies, marketing, technicians and other majors are an excellent fit for the new security industry. Co-ops, apprenticeships, internships and other programs can get new candidates started early.
Finally, there was a call to industry leaders to get past “Accepting Change and Embracing Change” to now “Make Change Happen!”
View photos from SNG 2018 here, and learn more about the event on the SNG website.
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