**Security’s Evolution: Navigating a Transformed Landscape**

For years, business security was all about the hardware: cameras that got a bit sharper, recorders that held a bit more, and tweaks to handle the dark a little better. It was a world of gradual change, where each system – video, access, alarms – lived in its own little silo. But those days are over. The security landscape is undergoing a seismic shift.

Over the last five years, a perfect storm of new technologies has fundamentally changed how businesses protect themselves. The move to digital IP video was just the opening act. Now, cloud computing, artificial intelligence (AI), and the convergence of data are rewriting the rules.

Shift #1: From on-premises to cloud-native

The most obvious change is the rush to the cloud. Companies have already moved their key operations – think customer management, planning software, and data analysis – to cloud platforms. Now, they want the same for their security. The explosion of data centers worldwide tells the story.

Cloud architecture isn’t just about more storage and uptime. It’s about managing everything from one place, getting updates easily, accessing systems remotely, and staying resilient. Security is no longer stuck in a server room; it’s woven into the digital fabric of the entire organization.

Shift #2: From intelligent automation to artificial intelligence

Security systems have long used basic automation – detecting motion, drawing lines, or classifying objects. But AI is taking it to a whole new level. At the heart of this revolution are vision language models (VLMs). These advanced AI systems can understand video using natural language. Imagine being able to type, “Show me the person in a red jacket near the loading dock yesterday,” and VLMs will sift through hours of footage to find your answer.

These models scan millions of video frames to pinpoint what you’re looking for, delivering insights in seconds.

When you combine VLMs with access control logs, building data, and other systems, you get a unified view of everything happening. Security goes from simply reacting to threats to proactively providing business intelligence.

Shift #3: The democratization of security

With so many different devices – cameras, sensors, alarms, and readers – managing security systems has become expensive and complex. Businesses are tired of isolated, high-maintenance systems. They want simplicity, scalability, and actionable insights.

This demand is driving what I call the “democratization of security.” It’s about making intelligent, enterprise-grade security accessible and manageable across departments and locations. It’s not just about better tools; it’s about giving everyone – from security operators to IT staff to everyday employees – the ability to see what’s happening and take control.

Shift #4: From cost center to value creator

This democratization is leading to a key turning point: the integration of physical security with broader IT systems. When security data flows into operational dashboards, HR systems, sales platforms, or workplace analytics, it becomes a valuable business asset, not just a safety measure.

As a result, security is transforming from a pure cost center to a strategic function that can cut expenses, streamline workflows, and even generate new revenue. Think about using security data to detect fraud at the point of sale, optimize building management based on occupancy trends, or analyze visitor engagement using video and CRM data.

A call for responsible innovation

Of course, with great power comes great responsibility. The ability to use AI to accurately identify individuals or vehicles raises serious questions about privacy and ethics. To maintain trust, the industry must implement strict controls, including access management, audit trails, query moderation, and transparent data policies. Responsible use is not optional; it’s essential.

What this means for partners

For integrators, this transformation is a huge opportunity. As security evolves from standalone systems to intelligent, cloud-connected platforms, those who can transition from installers to trusted advisors will thrive. The winners will be those who build strong customer relationships, deliver integrated solutions, and guide clients through their digital transformations.

Manufacturers who prioritize training, education, and scalable platforms are empowering their partners to succeed in this new era. Through advanced training, certifications, and support for advanced services, the right partners can move beyond the traditional project model and tap into recurring revenue streams.

By aligning with vendors who prioritize long-term customer success and reward loyalty, integrators can amplify their impact – delivering not just systems, but tangible business outcomes, and earning recognition for the trust and value they provide.

The companies that will lead the next chapter of physical security are those that embrace cloud-native and AI-powered solutions, champion ethical innovation, and prioritize simplicity. Because the future of security isn’t just about building the best camera; it’s about turning complexity into clarity and transforming risk into insight.

Boudewijn Pesch is Verkada’s Vice President of Japan and Asia-Pacific Channel Sales.