A software platform designed to centralise and manage various physical security systems within an organisation used to be called a PSIM (physical security information management) system. Generally speaking, however, the PSIM term has fallen out of favour because the systems were seen as expensive and difficult to manage. The phrase has been replaced by command-and-control, referring to software that combines access control, video surveillance, intrusion detection, and other systems into a unified platform. It’s a ripe area for innovation in the physical security space. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: What’s new in command-and-control systems, and what is the impact?
Cloud-managed command-and-control systems are unlocking new levels of efficiency for security professionals. It’s easy to see why: these platforms and the solutions that feed into them make it easier to scale security deployments across large or complex use cases, connect data and devices to gain more situational context and, in turn, enable better decision-making. Centralised cloud management platforms are tied to a bigger conversation in the physical security industry: the transition from reactive to proactive. With the benefits that cloud platforms and solutions offer such as automatic firmware and software updates, security leaders can spend less time on tedious and manual tasks, and instead, focus on more proactive work. This could include implementing tools like real-time alerts, which security pioneers can use to anticipate a threat before it happens, or even expanding physical security deployments to support other areas of the business.
Command-and-control (C&C) systems are evolving rapidly, driven by advancements in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and cybersecurity. Modern C&C systems now feature enhanced automation and advanced analytics, allowing for faster and more accurate decision-making. These systems are increasingly integrating with advanced sensor networks and IoT devices, providing real-time data that enhances situational awareness. Newer access control solutions provide enhanced flexibility and scalability, allowing organisations to start small such as securing a single building, and expand as needed. The impact of these innovations is profound. Enhanced automation reduces the cognitive load on operators, allowing them to focus on critical tasks rather than routine monitoring. The integration of AI combined with human decision-making improves threat detection and response times, significantly enhancing operational efficiency and security. These advancements collectively strengthen the overall effectiveness of command-and-control systems across various verticals.
Today’s command-and-control centres face the challenges of managing large amounts of data, multiple systems, and rotating staff in 24/7 environments. With all this data, it can be difficult to share information efficiently and to distinguish genuine threats from routine events. More command-and-control centre teams are adding robust work management systems to address these challenges. When combined with a unified security platform, a modern work management system helps security teams streamline collaboration across departments and shifts. These systems are a go-to source for information on events, tasks, alerts, and reports. Real-time data sharing ensures that all stakeholders are aligned, improving situational awareness, and enabling faster, coordinated responses. A work management system can also automate the management of tasks and reports, reducing the demand for staff resources. Security teams can focus on their core responsibilities and improve public safety.
Recent years have brought with them numerous challenges for businesses, causing a heightened focus on efficiency, and ways to streamline operational systems and processes. Companies are continually aiming to maximise the value of their core platforms and the data they can extract from these platforms. Command-and-control systems that are rich in information about physical environments are no exception. As a result, customers are looking for these systems to add value far beyond traditional security capabilities, such as optimising area occupancy, improving energy efficiency, and enhancing business process efficiency via access to rich sets of data. The ability of these systems to act as a platform to unlock the value of a much broader physical ecosystem allows organisations to get more value out of an investment, that they have historically had to make purely for security reasons.