Supporting remote management with cloud-based security

Rahul Chillar, Executive VP, Software, Siemens Smart Infrastructure Buildings explains how well-specified cloud-based building security systems support centralised remote management, while preserving the value of existing on-premises systems.

Building security is evolving rapidly and we are moving towards a world in which most functions will be managed centrally via the cloud.

A seamless user interface that collects and analyses real-time information across multiple sites and a wide variety of functions makes security management both easier and more effective, while requiring fewer resources.  

In addition, it pays off in terms of sustainability as 65% of energy can potentially be reduced when moving from an on-premises to a cloud infrastructure (The Sustainability Imperative, Accenture).

Organisations in general are becoming more comfortable with the idea of cloud-based technology to host their security data and with ‘as-a-service’ payment models.

However, the reality is that a majority of security installations are still on-premises or hybrid. 

Today’s security managers therefore need systems that support the best of both worlds. Best-of-breed management solutions connect easily to existing on-premises tools while leaving room for value-added cloud services – including fully cloud-based solutions for new buildings.

This also offers room to upgrade to additional services, such as predictive management, continuous access right reviews as well as false alarm detection and diagnosis.  

Addressing the needs of users 

What functions should a modern security management system provide? Managers often ask how to:

• Reduce the number of breaches and critical events
• Avoid system errors or breakdowns
• Integrate different systems and control them from one place
• Implement and enforce defined policies and procedures
• Automate processes so as to ease their workload
• Reduce the total cost of ownership of their solution and ensure high levels of cybersecurity 

Employees, on the other hand, typically have questions that are simpler – but no less important. They need to know how to access particular sites, offices or rooms, and they are seeking flexibility in access methods.

If someone has forgotten their physical badge, is there an alternative method of authentication? Modern cloud-based security management systems address all stakeholders’ needs.  

1. Enable faster emergency response 

There is a consensus that the first three to five minutes of an emergency are especially critical.

Cloud-based security systems support rapid response by making real-time information available to managers regardless of their location and by prioritising information flows, for instance through dynamic standard operating procedures (SOPs).

Instant notifications and live video feeds ensure that everyone who needs to know receives all the details in case of an emergency. 

2. Enhance security with smart access control 

By managing identities, access and privileges centrally, modern security management systems protect organisations.

They give managers fine-grained, flexible control of access privileges to doors and buildings, anywhere and at any time.

The ability to manage identities centrally eases workloads while avoiding errors and duplication. In addition, allowing users to access doors with smartphones not only increases convenience, but is also more efficient and sustainable – all while ensuring the highest levels of cybersecurity. 

3. Streamline workflows for efficiency and compliance 

Predefined and automated workflows for employee self-service simplify and speed up tasks like on- and offboarding, while at the same time increasing overall security.

People might use a simple, intuitive web-based portal, for instance, to approve access requests without any need to understand underlying processes.

It is easier to enforce company policies when the security management system requires managers to specify who is authorised to approve requests. 

4. Gain actionable security insights 

A dashboard of key performance indicators helps managers analyse their security data in the quest to improve physical security, business continuity and system uptime.

Malfunctioning equipment is easier to spot. “Access-granted” events provide insights at all levels, from security incidents to building utilisation.

The latter can even bring additional benefits: Real-time information on the number of people accessing a building can be utilised for the cafeteria to reduce food waste. 

5. Maximise ROI on security investments 

Cloud-based security will provide economic gains, not drains, only if it is flexible enough to work with a wide variety of existing on-premises systems and devices.

The ability to re-use existing hardware protects investment while adding the benefits of centralized data and remote access via the cloud.  

The future of security management 

Cloud-based security management is a significant part of the world-wide trend towards increased building automation.

For instance, one forward-looking study reports that in 2022 safety and security systems made up 31% of the global building automation systems market. 

As well as improving security, this will also save money. According to the trade association eu.bac, adding building automation and control functionality in all large non-residential buildings could lead to savings corresponding to 14% of the total building energy consumption, with annual savings of USD 37b and 64 million tons of CO2 emissions. 

Smart and integrated security management boosts safety, security and emergency response by providing instant and cybersecure access to information.

The opportunity to manage insights centrally, including those beyond the traditional boundaries of building security, also highlights improvement areas.

Defined procedures and workflows make life more efficient and secure for managers and staff alike. 

Ultimately, cloud-based solutions can be integrated seamlessly with existing on-premises security systems.

This combination supports the buildings industry to remain futureproof as it avoids the costly and disruptive need to rip and replace current systems. Instead, it is enhancing them with advanced features.