Why Security Coordination From the Beginning is Important

Security and IT teams are often brought in late or at the completion of projects, typically after the initial design and major design decisions have already been made. This can lead to unexpected vulnerabilities, compromised security integrity, and costly revisions, that might have been avoided with earlier involvement. When security and IT teams are engaged from the outset, it ensures that essential security protocols and infrastructure requirements are thoughtfully and seamlessly integrated into the project’s foundational design planning stages. Early collaboration allows for a more thorough and comprehensive assessment of potential risks, better alignment with evolving compliance standards, and the implementation of scalable, flexible solutions that effectively support the organization’s long-term business objectives. This proactive and inclusive approach not only reduces project delays and expensive rework but also significantly enhances system resilience and operational efficiency. Ultimately, it provides stronger, more effective protection for the organization’s most critical assets, safeguarding both operational continuity and business reputation over time.

A recent example highlighting a lack of proper planning and coordination with security teams took place at a retail mall where we noticed expensive 180-degree and motorized pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ) security cameras installed in poorly chosen, ineffective locations. These included spots right next to awnings and signs, or directly in front of large trees, all of which obstructed the cameras’ fields of view. As a result, the overall effectiveness of the cameras in monitoring the premises and detecting potential security threats was significantly diminished. This oversight not only compromised the mall’s security coverage but also clearly demonstrated a failure to consider important environmental factors, such as lighting and natural obstructions, and to incorporate valuable input from security professionals throughout the installation process. Ultimately, these critical mistakes undermined the overall investment in advanced surveillance technology, leaving the mall exposed to avoidable security risks that could have been prevented with more thorough planning and collaboration.