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Riding the Network: Tips for a Successful Journey
Chris Wetzel of InterTECH Security examines the ins and outs of integration in the corporate environmentThe Latest from SIW
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By Chris Wetzel
These days, physical security is blending with IT in ways never before thought possible. Corporate computer networks, once strictly the bastion of IT departments, now play host to a wide variety of security functions.
While IP-based equipment can lead to security improvements, this brave new world also requires the cooperation of two often very different areas of an organization: the security department and the IT department. Several longtime security integrators were asked to discuss the best approaches for the physical security department planning a jump onto the corporate network.
The Ground Rules
First of all, the two departments need to establish an atmosphere of trust and mutual respect in order to work well together. When initiating a project to place security functions on the corporate network, the security department can get off to a good start with IT by showing early on that they understand IT issues.
“You have to prove your competence,” said Jim Coleman, president of Atlanta-based Operational Security Systems Inc., who has more than 30 years of experience as a security integrator. “You have to show that you are comfortable and knowledgeable in working with IT technology and networks.”
This could be difficult for some security department staff members who may come from a law enforcement rather than a technical background, and who may not have a high level of networking knowledge and experience. That's where a highly skilled security systems integrator can be a true asset. The integrator can supply both the technical knowledge and security expertise needed to ensure that everyone is on the same page.
“Once (the IT staffers) know your team knows how to ‘play' in their space—in other words, that you know what you're talking about regarding networking issues—then things go a lot smoother,” Coleman said.
Brad Wilson, a longtime security integrator and president of RFI Communications & Security Systems in San Jose , agreed. “The first concern (IT staffers) have is, ‘Who are you? What do you know about networks? What do you want to put on my network?'”
