Automated Security vs. Humans—Here’s Why Both Are Important

How do you choose between security guards and new technology? What is the best for your business?

Last Updated:
September 8, 2023
| ~
4
min Read
By
Kailey Boucher
,
Marketing Writer
,
LVT

When I was a kid, I was positive that I would have a robot when I grew up. You know the type—something straight out of the future. Shiny metal, holographic projections, buttons and switches that light up like a laser show, a classic "beep boop" robot voice. It was going to match my jetpack perfectly. 

While my childhood visions might not have materialized exactly the way I expected, in some ways, I was kind of right. I mean, my Roomba vacuum may not be complete with holographic projections and it doesn’t talk to me, but it does clean my floors so that I don’t have to. And don’t even get me started on Amazon’s Alexa. She helps me order groceries, keeps my to-do list organized, and makes sure I wake up on time—a true lifesaver. 

My little robot friends do a lot for me, but they aren’t completely self-sufficient. My Roomba cleans my floors…but I have to log into the app and tell it to get to work. Alexa wakes me up in the morning…as long as I tell her what time to sound the alarm. It’s a partnership. It requires a little bit of effort on my part, but ultimately my life runs more smoothly because of it. 

I guess what I’m trying to say is that robots haven’t taken over the world…but technology can bring a lot of convenience to our day-to-day lives if we let it. This brings me to the topic of this blog: The partnership between automated surveillance systems and human security personnel. Much like the way I work with my Roomba and Alexa to keep my life running smoothly, this alliance teams up to create a more secure atmosphere. By leveraging both automated security and human guards, you can create a comprehensive plan to keep your organization safe and secure. 

ADVANTAGES OF HUMAN SECURITY GUARDS 

Technology is great, but some jobs are better left to humans. Human guards bring a set of strengths to security operations that cannot be replicated by automated solutions. Some key advantages of a human security team include: 

  • Adaptive decision-making skills: Human guards possess the ability to make decisions based on a combination of experience, intuition, and situational awareness. This dynamic decision-making process enables them to adjust their approach in real-time, considering factors that may not be captured by automated systems.
  • The human element: Human guards provide a human touch that technology lacks. Their empathy and understanding often play a pivotal role in diffusing conflicts, building trust, and creating a safe environment where people feel valued and cared for.
  • Customer service skills: Human guards can assist visitors, provide directions, and enhance the overall experience while also enhancing onsite security.
  • Emergency first aid: Human guards can provide immediate first aid and assistance in medical emergencies, assessing injuries, administering CPR, and stabilizing the situation until medical help arrives.

BENEFITS OF AUTOMATED SECURITY SYSTEMS

Automated security systems, while not always a total replacement for personnel, do have some significant advantages. Some key benefits include:

  • Wider area coverage: Surveillance cameras, drones, and strategically placed sensors can survey extensive territories simultaneously, ensuring that no blind spots remain undetected.
  • Adaptability and scalability: Hiring and training personnel is time-consuming and costly. Whether you need to monitor a sprawling industrial complex or a small retail space, custom-built automated security systems can be deployed quickly and conveniently. 
  • Remote handling of dangerous situations: Automated systems reduce the need for human guards to be physically present in hazardous environments.
  • Data and analytics: Modern security software provides you with valuable insights into security patterns, trends, and vulnerabilities. This enables you to make informed decisions and proactive adjustments to existing security measures.

HOW SECURITY PERSONNEL AND AUTOMATED SOLUTIONS CAN WORK TOGETHER

In an increasingly digital world, there is still a need for the human element where security is concerned. There are just some things humans can do better than even the most advanced AI or highest-definition camera. That being said, automated security systems amplify the effectiveness of human guards, and not tapping into the combined potential of both automated and human security solutions could mean missing out on substantial advantages.

Humans possess critical decision-making skills and intuition, and automated systems offer real-time data collection and monitoring capabilities that amplify a guard's effectiveness. For instance, human guards can leverage automated surveillance cameras to cover vast areas that may be challenging to monitor continuously. 

Live data feeds allow guards to make informed decisions promptly, enhancing their ability to respond effectively to evolving situations. If a guard receives an alert about a potential breach, they can access live camera feeds remotely to assess the situation before taking action. This seamless blend of human judgment and technological insights encourages the safest, most effective responses possible. 

Finally, whether you’re struggling to find qualified candidates or simply don’t have the budget to bring on new personnel, technology can fill gaps in your workforce and maximize the efforts of your team. For example, modern surveillance solutions alert you of incidents on your property and allow you to talk to intruders via built-in loudspeakers and activate lighting for heightened security. These features make it easy to remotely manage situations on your property when personnel resources are limited. 

MAXIMIZE YOUR SECURITY EFFORTS WITH LVT

By combining manpower with the power of technology, you can come up with a comprehensive security strategy that is greater than the sum of its parts. Ready to partner with LVT and make the most of your security efforts? Contact us today. 

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