Exclusive: Cloud and AI reshaping physical security in ANZ region

The Vice President of Global Marketing at Genetec, Andrew Elvish, has highlighted the industry's shift towards "a pragmatic approach to new technologies", following the release of Genetec's 2025 State of Physical Security Report.

"The big thing is this idea of balance and pragmatism in the responses we were getting," he explained.

"We went through a hype cycle around cloud, AI, and hybrid cloud, and now organisations are asking how to integrate these innovations effectively."

Economic Uncertainty Driving Security Trends

The report found that economic uncertainty remains a dominant concern for security professionals, with 54% of respondents citing inflation and financial instability as key factors affecting project timelines.

"Customers are prioritising working with proven leaders in the space," Elvish explained. "They're not willing to take risks with untested solutions. They want stability and expertise to help them navigate this uncertain period."

Hybrid Cloud and Open Security Platforms

As organisations seek cost-effective and flexible solutions, hybrid cloud adoption has gained traction. Elvish noted that security professionals want to maximise their existing investments rather than start from scratch. "Customers want a bridge to the future that leverages their current infrastructure," he said. "Hybrid really takes centre stage in that."

Openness in security solutions is another crucial factor. Many providers have moved towards vertical integration, but Elvish believes flexibility is key.

"One size fits none," he said. "You need to be able to work with legacy equipment while also having the option to integrate newer technologies."

Recruitment Challenges in Security Industry

Labour shortages remain a pressing issue, particularly in Australia and New Zealand, where the cost of hiring is high.

The report found that over 70% of end users cited a need for better collaboration between IT and physical security teams.

To address these shortages, Genetec has focused on streamlining security operations through a unified platform. "We bring all core security functions together—video surveillance, access control, number plate recognition, intrusion—into a single interface," Elvish said. "This reduces training time and maximises the efficiency of limited personnel."

A recent innovation, the Genetec Operations Center, aims to further improve workforce management. "Security teams have traditionally relied on spreadsheets and sticky notes," Elvish noted. "Operations Center digitises that process, ensuring security personnel have real-time updates and can coordinate effectively across locations."

The Evolution of IT and Physical Security

As security systems become increasingly integrated with IT infrastructure, collaboration between IT and security teams is evolving. "Security has moved from being a cost of doing business to a strategic asset," Elvish said. "Now, organisations are using security to enhance resilience and plan for the future."

This shift has led to a greater focus on cybersecurity within physical security. "IT teams are recognising that security devices are now endpoints on their networks," he added. "The expectation is that security professionals understand cybersecurity best practices and that IT professionals appreciate the nuances of physical security."

Responsible AI Adoption in Security

AI remains a hot topic in the security industry, but many organisations are cautious about implementation. "AI doesn't necessarily stand for artificial intelligence—sometimes it stands for absolute ignorance," Elvish joked. "It's important to see AI as a tool to achieve specific outcomes, rather than an end in itself."

Genetec's approach to AI focuses on intelligent automation. "Computers are great at analysing large volumes of data, while humans excel at judgment and intuition," Elvish explained. "We want AI to enhance security professionals' decision-making rather than replace them."

Transparency in AI decision-making is another critical issue.

"We need to be highly intentional about designing systems that allow security professionals to validate AI-driven insights," Elvish said. "Black box decision-making is dangerous. You need to understand how conclusions are reached before acting on them."

Genetec's Role in Industry Education

As security technology becomes more complex, education and training have become a priority for Genetec. "There is a hunger for guidance," Elvish said. "We're working closely with our partners to ensure they understand how to leverage AI, cloud, and automation effectively."

Genetec has a history of leading educational initiatives in the security industry. "Back in 2014, there was a lack of cybersecurity awareness in the industry," Elvish recalled. "We launched the Security of Security roadshow to upskill the industry on cyber concerns."

"Now, we're applying that same approach to AI and automation."

As the security industry navigates economic uncertainty, workforce challenges, and evolving technology, companies are looking for stable, long-term partners to guide them. "The industry is at a turning point," Elvish said.

"Security professionals need to maximise their investments, embrace hybrid cloud, and adopt automation strategically to build a safer future."