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Physical security evolving beyond security teams

The landscape of physical security is undergoing a major shift. Traditionally, selecting access control and visitor management solutions fell squarely on the shoulders of security professionals. But today, for service providers, it’s no longer just about security and sales teams, departments like legal, IT, and technical operations are becoming integral to these critical decisions.

This evolution reflects the growing need for providers to demonstrate a broader understanding of modern business needs. It’s not just about securing premises anymore. Organisations expect providers to cover data protection compliance, cloud security, operational efficiency, and seamless system integration. A robust access control or visitor management solution should tick every box for businesses seeking comprehensive, future-proof security.

“Today’s physical security decisions are no longer isolated, they’re deeply intertwined with IT infrastructure, legal compliance, and operational efficiency,” says Ariel Flax, vice president of sales at ATG Digital. “Service providers must ensure collaboration across departments, from data protection officers and cloud specialists to technical teams responsible for installation and verification.”

Why this shift matters

The increasing involvement of various departments in security choices means solutions must be:

* Compliance-ready: Legal and POPIA officers need assurance that providers meet strict data protection and privacy standards.

* Cybersecurity-driven: With rising concerns over data breaches and cyber threats, organisations expect providers to prioritise encrypted data, cloud integrations, and system hardening.

* Technically verified: Technicians and developers must ensure that solutions are not only installed correctly but also optimised for seamless operation and integration.

* Operationally intelligent: Security solutions should enhance workflow efficiency, reduce administrative burdens, and integrate seamlessly with enterprise systems like HR and site management.

A holistic approach

This shift is driving demand for providers who can offer more than just security - they must deliver holistic business solutions. As access control, visitor management, and security technologies continue to advance, organisations will prioritise partners who engage all relevant departments and ensure every stakeholder’s needs are addressed.

“Physical security is no longer a stand-alone function, it’s an integral part of business operations,” adds Flax. “Providers who recognise the importance of cross-departmental collaboration will be the ones shaping the future of the industry.”

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