Genetec Inc. (“Genetec”), the global leader in enterprise physical security software, recently shared its top predictions for the physical security industry in 2025.
Practicality will overcome hype
Organisations are becoming more strategic in deploying the cloud. They’re balancing on-premises, edge, and cloud solutions for optimal fit. In 2025, decision-makers will prioritise hybrid systems, focusing on centralised monitoring, reduced maintenance with quick-deploy hybrid cloud systems, and modernising video or access control systems without discarding existing investments. Fully cloud-based deployments may optimise costs or enable broader third-party integrations using on-premises infrastructure. SaaS solutions supporting hybrid-cloud environments will offer the most flexibility, combining video, access control, and sensors from various manufacturers while integrating existing infrastructure via the cloud.
AI for outcome-driven benefits
The 2025 State of Physical Security Report indicates that 42% of respondents who work in procurement, management, or use of physical security technology, plan to deploy some facet of AI in their security operations in the coming months.
When applied thoughtfully, AI-enabled security solutions can be game-changing. Especially when organisations start by identifying key operational challenges and then solve them through intelligent automation, which is a combination of artificial intelligence (AI), intuitive user experience (intuitive UX), and automation. The most effective implementations are anchored in Responsible AI, ensuring technology is both ethical and transparent. This approach not only mitigates risks but also enhances trust and compliance.
Organisations will prioritise data privacy
The global average cost of a data breach hit $4.88 million in 2024. This, combined with the fact that 67% of organisations were impacted by industry regulations in the last year means organisations will continue to invest in data protection and industry compliance. However, not all physical security systems on the market are built to support these efforts. When deploying new systems, IT and physical security teams will choose ones with built-in data protection and privacy tools and that have the latest certification. They’ll also look at cloud and hybrid-cloud solutions since upgrades and fixes automatically get pushed to their physical security system—including new cybersecurity and privacy features.
Cross-team collaboration will gain traction
Our latest industry survey indicates that many organisations expect difficulty hiring qualified personnel in 2025. This could explain why tools that help with data analysis and visualisation, and improve collaboration between teams ranked among the top 5 projects for 2025. Organisations want to remove bottlenecks and ease stress for security teams. To do that, they’ll look for tools that empower people in IT, facilities, and human resources with greater information and autonomy.
Stakeholders will demand more from service providers
Choosing physical security solutions doesn’t solely fall on the shoulders of security professionals anymore. From information technology (IT) teams and security operations (SecOps) to facilities teams, more people are getting involved in physical security decisions. But they all come to the table with a focus on their own challenges, requirements, and priorities.
Because of this, end users will demand more from service providers including channel partners, consultants, and technology vendors. They expect these providers to have a deeper understanding of cybersecurity, operations, data, and business automation. They’ll want more cohesive guidance to address stakeholder needs and equip them with the right tools.
Image Credit: Genetec
