When it comes to security, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. What’s right for one business might not be right for your business. For example, a retail store needs electronic article surveillance (EAS), while a major corporation that operates in an office setting doesn’t. Instead of trying to purchase a standard security system, businesses need to focus on the importance of custom business security solutions.
Here are three reasons why a one-size-fits-all security solution doesn’t actually “fit all.”
Businesses Are Different Sizes
No matter how big or small your business is, it needs security. However, the size of your business is a major factor in security plans.
For example, if you own a large business with more than 500 employees, an access control system would be extremely valuable in protecting internal assets. But, if you’re a small business with less than 20 employees, an access control system may not be the best fit because of the familiarity and involvement you have with your company.
Businesses Have Different Risks
The second reason a one-size-fits-all security solution is ineffective is because businesses have different security risks. A retailer needs a security plan to prevent and catch shoplifters, while corporations might have more of a focus on cyber security and data protection. It’s not to say that retailers don’t need cyber security or that corporations don’t need theft prevention solutions. However, certain risks are more of an issue in different industries. To assess your business risks, consider the following:
- Your business assets. This can include customer data and/or merchandise.
- Who has access to your assets. For example, consider your own employees, building managers, cleaning crews or third-party vendors.
- Where and how your business assets are stored. Are they housed onsite, on a company server or in the cloud? Are they accessed in-person, via desktop, on mobile or via BYO devices?
- Your building and data regulations. Some common examples include: HIPPA, PCI and local fire codes.
Businesses Have Different Budgets
Lastly, not all businesses have the same budget. A local restaurant is not going to have the same budget as a medical institution. This is because medical centers, like hospitals, need more security to protect sensitive patient/employee data, equipment and medications.
Ensure Business Security
Although security plans should be customized to fit specific needs, all should include basic features, such as:
- to keep an extra set of eyes on your inventory and your facility.
- Monitored alarms that will instantly alert you of an emergency.
- Mobile solutions that allow you to remotely monitor your business from your smartphone or tablet.
- Environmental hazard monitoring to keep your business, employees and customers safe in the event of a natural disaster like a fire or flood.
- Cyber security controls to keep your sensitive business data, employee and customer information protected from hackers.
No matter what business you’re in or how big your company is, always connect with a trusted security vendor to develop a customized solution that fits your needs.
