The application of security technology to business continuity and operational efficiency was and will be particularly important in 2019. Since technology is an integral part of business operations–and with cybersecurity risks at an all-time high–many organizations use their security platforms to improve operations and increase efficiency beyond traditional applications.

In the digital age of today, it is crucial that companies have streamlined, efficient and intelligent security management systems that guarantee sustained security for an organization. And it’s just as important to make the most of the time and money spent on security software as it does on the security system. The right software platform can be an employee multiplier for organizations that invest in it, enhance the efficiency of organizations and reduce the number of resources required.

There are three ways in which security technology improves business operations and business continuity in the face of new and unpredictable challenges:

Organizational risk mitigation

Many companies consist of large groups of nearby buildings that accommodate employees together with sensitive customer and financial data, which can lead to a range of security tactical challenges. Organizations must monitor a variety of risks, including threats against insiders, natural disasters, terrorist attacks, cyber attacks and intellectual property theft.

In addition to this growing data collection and analysis, companies need to know about activities in the surrounding areas near campus sites, because in critical situations, potential events need to be recognized quickly so that the correct answers can be deployed. By using a security software platform that operates via an open architecture platform using a browser-based interface for information sharing, a common operating picture is created across security systems, building management systems and IT systems–all of which are key components to keep business operations running smoothly and safely in the face of unexpected security.

Compliance standards

A converged security and information management platform (CSIM) integrates new software with specific company compliance standards to make the organization run more efficiently and safely. By leveraging the existing global security infrastructure, companies can reduce costs, mitigate risks and comply with compliance requirements. Recent global cyber events underline the significance of this.

In 2018, UK companies were announced to face fines of up to $20 million or four percent of global turnover if they fail to protect themselves against cyber attacks. WannaCry has affected around 300,000 computers and 200,000 end-users worldwide, including the English and Scottish National Health Service hospitals. Ambulances had to be diverted during the attack, critical surgeries canceled and care teams scrambled to access patient data.

This point to the fact that an adequate cybersecurity platform requires more than just cyber software, but a way to respond quickly and take appropriate action and a converged software capability to analyze and respond to threats in real time.

Logistical challenges are overcome

Managing crises can be challenging for all organizations, but it is especially challenging for organizations with non-traditional structures, specifically matrix and projected organizational structures. These structures are frequently seen in law firms, consultancy and technology firms. The lack of a clear hierarchy, a focus on projects and cases rather than functional areas and the mission of these organizations can interfere with the frequently used chain of command to manage crises in organizations.

This decentralized structure can also offer significant benefits to global organizations if their structure is taken into account in the documentation, training and exercises on crisis management. Case studies that explore best practices for the implementation of crisis management programs in a matrix or projected organizational structure.

Business Cost Reduction

Security technology offers many ways to streamline operations, leading to a more cost-efficient and efficient business. With a streamlined intelligent security management system, your company can see a significant return on investment from a converged security platform, both financially and with regard to staff resources. If large physical footprint organizations are empowered, they can consolidate their security data management into a single user interface.

When companies use CSIM to maintain security operations, they can experience a reduction of 66 percent in response time and a reduction of 50 percent in false alarms.

As organizations aim to improve business continuity and streamline their overall operations, a converged security platform can be a valuable tool to minimize risk, logistical challenges and business costs by correlating and understanding data to provide your organization with the best steps forward.

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