SPARC Discussion of Artificial Intelligence Impact

SIA’s Security Practitioners Advancing Real Conversations group discussed AI uses and benchmarking during a July 2024 meeting. This summary provides insights into how leading end users are leveraging this technology.

In the discussion, members of the Security Industry Association (SIA) Security Practitioners Advancing Real Conversations (SPARC) group explored the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in the industry and what to consider for future conversations. Salesforce led the discussion, highlighting their Einstein AI tool, which enhances business and security intelligence. For instance, it assists with lease and security reviews by combining internal models with external vendors. They also demonstrated how their AI-driven security systems use cameras and water sensors to alert teams about issues like leaks or vandalism.

Delving into the topic of business intelligence, AI provided insights into operational data, such as space usage, allowing better decision making; it offered shifts in management approaches from reactive to proactive, with examples predicting maintenance needs and monitoring technology health and cost-saving opportunities.

There is a need to balance AI use with keeping essential human roles. The discussion highlighted that AI is crucial for early threat detection and proactive security management; however, it was also stressed that, while AI can handle basic tasks, human intervention is still necessary.

In the discussion about using generative AI, the main examples were help with writing reports and analysis. Human oversight, along with these AI tools, was also important. Examples included social media monitoring and spotting misinformation. The need for long-term planning to keep up with technology advancements was emphasized.

High costs and technology limits made it hard to use AI widely, and challenges with funding and integration differed depending on practitioner team expectations. AI data analysis gave valuable insights for things like equipment replacement and facility management, beyond just physical security. Team collaboration and information sharing were crucial for getting the most from AI. Participants stressed the need for practitioners to use strategies that extend AI’s benefits beyond traditional physical security, which could help address the issue of high costs.

AI and robotics integration was expected to grow, focusing on biometrics and advanced automation. Ethical issues, especially in facial recognition and weaponized robots required ongoing discussion. Industry conferences like Securing New Ground and ISC West would highlight AI’s role in security and technology advancements, fostering discussions, sharing insights and promoting collaboration, shaping the policy needed to govern it responsibly.

In conclusion, AI is transforming business and security operations, offering great insights and efficiencies. Its adoption requires careful consideration of costs, ethics and the balance between technology and human roles. With thoughtful implementation, AI could enhance the physical security industry holistically. Plenty of questions remain, which the members will ask of service providers in future meetings.

For more information about SPARC, contact SIA Associate Director of Membership Katie Greatti at kgreatti@securityindustry.org.