Partnering with other security enterprises: the whole is greater than the sum of the parts
Alliances between companies, whether they are from the same industry or the wider supply chain, are a fact of life in business today. Partnering with other enterprises can enhance a security services provider’s offering.
Although many organisations like to think that they have enough in-house expertise to be able to tackle every possible customer need, the truth is that this is very rarely, if ever, the case. Joining forces with other experts in their respective fields, whether inside or outside the security sector, can lead to a more innovative, flexible and customer-focused offering and ensure that processes are maintained and continuously improved.
Together as one
There are occasions when security companies that might normally operate as competitors, need to combine their knowledge, expertise and resources. This is often the case with large events such as the recent state funeral of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth ll. Over 12,000 private security professionals, police officers and military personnel were involved throughout the day in order to keep the royal family, mourners and the public safe and the event free from any disruption.
Behind all the pomp and ceremony was a carefully orchestrated and executed security operation that had been planned and refined over many years, involving many of the industry’s leading service providers. Those watching the event would have had little idea of the size and scale of the security operation behind it – that’s how it should be, as it indicates just how well it was carried out.
Officers and supervisors from various companies were provided with comprehensive briefing documents and a deployment plan that ensured that the event ran smoothly.
Grouping prepopulated teams into dedicated locations also gave personnel smaller areas of responsibility and, combined with the command structure on the day, facilitated simple but effective operational management.
Tech talk
Technology played a significant role in ensuring effective communication between individuals, teams and the operational command centre during Queen Elizabeth ll’s funeral. As it continues to play a vital role in security service provision, successful partnerships between those offering these types of services and the companies that create security related tech need to be increasingly strong.
Security services providers are increasingly collaborating with development companies to create bespoke products and build greater value for their customers. Construction sites, for example, often have unique needs and require an innovative approach to safety and security, while mitigating a wide range of risks and threats. A key aspect of this is ensuring that materials and equipment are delivered on time to where they are needed.
On patrol
Using technology isn’t just about ensuring the best possible service though – take for instance, lone worker protection. Employers have a legal duty of care to safeguard any lone workers whilst they carry out their activities and technology can summon aid in the event of emergency, collect important information that can then be used as evidence, and confirm the safety or whereabouts of an individual.
Lone worker protection devices range from panic buttons and alarms with audio functionality to body worn cameras and smartphone applications, which can connect personnel to an emergency response service. Workforce management systems are also increasingly used to improve not only processes and quality of service but also the safety and wellbeing of personnel. They allow companies to follow the progression of security officers, allocate resources, streamline incident reporting and enhance communication between teams.
A successful enterprise partnership relies upon sharing user experiences, insights and feedback. This can enhance collaboration and, in the case of technology development, improve devices and make software more intuitive. It is always important to include frontline security officers who use a product, as they can provide valuable insight into where technology and services can be improved. This encourages staff to become actively involved in the business and fosters a more inclusive corporate culture.
Like minded
Organisations usually choose to work with an enterprise partner when an event is on such a large scale that it would be inconceivable for one provider to have enough resource.
Recognising this and acting upon it can help all parties achieve their goals, while capturing ideas, insights and suggestions can lead to improvements that add value, provide a higher quality service, and improve industry standing.
David Hawkins
Senior IT product manager,
Wilson James
