BSIA: "The future is integrated"

British Security Industry Association (BSIA) chief executive David Dickinson has skilfully mirrored the present and future requirements of security services end users by announcing the formation of a Common Interest Working Group that will debate how the industry might provide cost-effective and truly integrated solutions, writes Brian Sims.

The announcement – made at the IFSEC Security Industry Awards dinner – is so very timely, given the price increases that regulation of the manned services sector (not to mention the Working Time Directive) will engender in the very near future.

Speaking at the Metropole Hotel, Dickinson said: "Regulation will afford the industry that extra credibility in the eyes of the public and its potential partner organisations. This credibility opens doors, and not just for the regulated sectors. The BSIA recognises that the future is about integrated solutions, with licensing leading to fewer, more highly-skilled officers working with a range of sophisticated security products and systems."

Crucially, Dickinson also emphasised the far-reaching consequences of regulation. "We're facing a fundamental change to the way in which our industry operates. And when I say change I do mean change. At the launch of the Security Industry Authority, change was promised, not predicted. Some people might feel threatened by the changes that are about to occur but if we as an industry can recognise that laurels are for earning and not just for resting on, change will be viewed as a massive opportunity for us all."

The new Common Interest Working Group consists of high profile representatives from the BSIA's Manned Security Services, Security Systems, Security Equipment Manufacturers, Access Control and CCTV Sections. The remaining eight sections of the BSIA's membership will also be consulted wherever and whenever their particular interests are involved.