Physical security shifts to strategic business role

Physical security is shifting from a narrow focus on protection towards a broader strategic role inside organisations, according to a new global survey from software provider Genetec.

The company has released its 2026 Global State of Physical Security report.

The findings draw on responses from 7,368 physical security professionals in six regions.

Respondents include end users, channel partners, systems integrators, consultants, and manufacturers. The survey covers organisations of different sizes and sectors.

The research points to closer ties between physical security and information technology. It also indicates growing demand for unified systems, artificial intelligence tools, and hybrid cloud infrastructure.

Security as strategy

Genetec reports that physical security systems are no longer seen only as a protective layer. Many organisations now treat them as an enterprise function that contributes to wider business objectives.

The report describes a shift in how security teams collaborate with other departments. It links this shift with increased interest in technologies that improve operational awareness and support decision-making.

Christian Morin, Vice President of Product Engineering at Genetec, said this change is reshaping the role of security inside businesses.

"As it becomes more tightly woven into the broader fabric of the enterprise, security is emerging as a genuine enabler of business outcomes-helping organisations work more cohesively, respond more effectively, and stay focused on long-term goals," said Christian Morin, Vice President of Product Engineering, Genetec.

Push to modernise

The survey shows that many organisations are prioritising the modernisation of their physical security systems. Respondents link this with a need for stronger collaboration and more informed business decisions.

More than 70% of respondents say they now use unified or integrated systems.

These systems bring together functions such as video surveillance, access control, and analytics.

Sixty per cent of respondents say their main motivation for replacing legacy technology is the desire to integrate new functions. Fifty-one per cent cite access to new features as another key driver.

The findings indicate interest in cross-functional security platforms that can generate operational insights. Respondents also point to pressure to gain more value from existing investments.

Supplier stability

Vendor choice is emerging as a strategic concern in this environment. The report states that end users are placing greater weight on long-term stability and trust.

Seventy-three per cent of end users say the long-term viability and stability of a vendor is a key factor when they evaluate solutions. Product performance ranks at 45% and price at 43%.

The data suggests that buyers want partners who offer continuity over many years. Respondents also link this with support for phased modernisation programmes and ongoing product development.

AI interest and caution

Artificial intelligence has reached the top tier of project priorities among respondents. For the first time, AI ranks alongside access control and video surveillance as a leading focus area for 2026.

Genetec reports that interest in adopting AI has more than doubled among end users compared with last year. Respondents see AI-based tools as useful for managing alarms, supporting investigations, and reducing noise in complex environments.

There is also caution around implementation. Seventy per cent of respondents express concerns about how AI systems are designed and deployed.

The main questions relate to data use and transparency around AI operation. Respondents highlight the need for clear guidance from technology providers.

Hybrid cloud trend

The survey shows that cloud services play a growing role in security infrastructure. End users cite automatic updates, simplified deployment, and easier maintenance as key advantages.

Most respondents do not expect a full shift to public cloud. They instead anticipate a mix of deployment models.

Organisations expect to choose which workloads remain on premises and which move into the cloud. This approach aligns with a preference for hybrid cloud architectures.

The report indicates that respondents expect continued cloud adoption through 2026. Many see hybrid strategies as the likely long-term pattern for security systems.

Priorities for 2026

The study also highlights main project areas for the coming year. These include access control modernisation, cybersecurity initiatives, and wider use of analytics.

The report contains regional breakdowns across North America, Latin America and the Caribbean, Europe, Asia-Pacific, the Middle East and Africa, and Australia and New Zealand. It also includes further forecasts for market trends and technology adoption.

The survey was conducted between August and September 2025 and used only fully completed responses. The findings suggest that physical security will remain closely linked with digital transformation efforts in 2026 and beyond.