FM newsroom – smart building, security. Security technology is undergoing a major shift as once-separate systems become fully connected, intelligent platforms. For facility managers, this transformation promises stronger protection, smoother operations and new opportunities to boost building performance.
The Rise of Integrated Security
Physical security is no longer simply about guarding people and property. According to Genetec’s “State of Physical Security 2026”, organisations now see it as a strategic function that supports resilience and delivers measurable operational value.
Video surveillance, access control, intrusion detection and perimeter systems are increasingly linked together. More than 60% of surveyed organisations already use integrated or unified platforms, with most upgrades driven by the need for better system compatibility. Building. Technology. Solutions’ article points out that these connected solutions help operators work faster, smarter and with clearer insight into their buildings.
Data Sharing Builds Value Beyond Security
Modern security systems generate vast amounts of operational data, and organisations are increasingly using it. A quarter of end users already share security data—such as occupancy information or movement patterns—with other departments, unlocking value for workplace planning, FM operations and energy management.
Cloud Strategies Becoming More Flexible
The shift towards the cloud continues, but not in a one-size-fits-all manner. Many organisations now favour hybrid cloud models that combine cloud scalability with the reassurance of keeping critical data and workloads on site. By dividing systems into security zones, buildings remain resilient even if cloud services experience disruption.
This flexibility gives facility teams greater control over their infrastructure while still benefiting from the cloud’s agility.
Artificial Intelligence Reinforces Decision-Making
AI is reshaping physical security by improving anomaly detection, predicting incidents and supporting faster decision-making. Interest is growing in AI-powered analytics, automated alerts and predictive tools.
According to the survey, the most frequently mentioned goal is the automatic triggering of events (55%), closely followed by the full automation of repetitive tasks (48%). 46% of respondents aim to automatically filter and classify events and automate deployment planning in emergencies. A significant proportion of organisations want to use AI to predict future threats (34%) or to identify potential process improvements (30%). At present, lower priorities are investigating incidents (27%) and creating transcriptions and reports (21%).
However, many users still depend on integrators and manufacturers to guide them, as the market lacks clear standout solutions. Close collaboration, realistic expectations and responsible innovation are key to making AI work effectively in real-world facilities.