Traditional Methods of Securing the Assets and Current Technology - Article Example

RЕVIЕW THЕ LITЕRАTURЕ RЕLАTING TО BОTH SYSTЕMS ТHЕОRY АND РHYSIСАL SЕСURITY Review the Literature relating to both Systems Theory and Physiсаl Security Author Author’s Affiliation Date Introduction This paper presents some of the important aspects of organizational security with respect to systems theory. The systems theory is a confusing concept as it is used in different ways in different disciplines. In fact, different disciplines give different explanations of systems theory. This confusion arises due to the term “system” because of difficulty in understanding what system is it, whether it is a biological system, an electronic system or social system? This paper discusses the concept of systems theory from a different perspective and that is security. Basically, the systems theory was proposed in the 1928 Ludwig von Bertalanffy who was basically a biologist (Heylighen & Joslyn, 1992; Yurtseven & Buchanan, 2011). The author has discussed this concept in the context of biology however with the passage of time a large number of researchers carried out research on this idea. They discussed their viewpoints in the context of different disciplines. This paper will discuss the concept of system theory with regards to the security of organizational assets. Uses of Systems Theory Up till now, there have been a number of developments of systems theory from diverse perspectives such as Facets of Systems Science focused on a theoretical basis and philosophy (some of the well-known philosophies are Bunge, Bahm and Laszlo). In addition, systems theory has also been used in mathematical modeling and information theory (for instance Klir and Mesarovic have carried out extensive work in this area); and practical applications. In this scenario, the mathematical systems theory emerged as a result of development of isomorphies between the other systems and models of electrical circuits. Some of the important application areas of systems theory comprise computing, engineering, management, family psychotherapy and ecology (Heylighen & Joslyn, 1992; Yurtseven & Buchanan, 2011). Additionally, systems analysis, which is a unique analysis technique does not develop on the basis of systems theory, however follows systems principles to support a decision-maker to deal with a wide variety of problems such as determining, reconstructing, optimizing, and managing a system (typically a socio-technical corporation), at the same time as keeping in mind various goals, restrictions and resource limitations. In this scenario, it is aimed at specifying likely processes, in conjunction with their costs, risks, benefits. Some researchers believe that the systems theory is directly related to cybernetics, as well as with system dynamics, which are used to perform modifications in a system that is based on joined variables (for instance "world dynamics" which was presented by Club of Rome and Jay Forrester). Moreover, the systems theory also plays a significant role in a number of disciplines such as "sciences of complexity", learning self-organization and heterogeneous networks of communicating actors, as well as a number of related areas for instance, chaotic dynamics, artificial life, far-from-equilibrium thermodynamics, artificial intelligence, computer modeling and simulation and neural networks (Heylighen & Joslyn, 1992; Yurtseven & Buchanan, 2011). Figure 1Systems Theory, Image Source: (Friedman & Allen, 2010) Figure 1 demonstrates the systems theory in the context of the social environment. In this diagram the system is presented within a social environment. In this scenario, different aspects of the social environment influence the system and its outputs and outcomes. As the diagram shows, the system also interacts with various other systems or collateral systems. However, there are prospects on the function and role of the system to follow standards inside the larger social environment. In this scenario, if the system fails to conform to those standards, then the system is believed to be dysfunctional (Friedman & Allen, 2010). Use of Systems approach in the protection of assets? The new world is experiencing the potential gains from technological revolution more vigorously since last decade. Technology makes a task easier and cost effective (Gabriel, 2003). With the improvement in technology there is an increase in the awareness regarding the protection against security issues due to which investment in the security measures is also increasing. Security is a set of tactics adopted to resist any harm to property, lives or information etc. A security system is designed by industries, business organizations, warehouses, hospitals, airports, museums, retail outlets etc. in order to protect their valuable assets from theft, breakage or other injuries. Assets hold much value for any organization as they are the determinants of future income generation (Tollington, 1998). So, their protection is foremost priority of the management as the crime rate is increasing nowadays. Causes of such crimes are not known and depend upon the extreme unpredictability of human behavior. There is no way to prevent it except adopting a proactive approach to mitigate the threats and consequent losses. Thus, increasing the risk of apprehension and assessment of all future risks assists in future growth and development. A security system is a complex configuration comprising of three important elements of detecting the threat, delaying its any harmful impact and responding to this situation in the most effective manner (Davies & Minion, 2008). However, a risk-based cost and benefit estimation is essential before the deployment of any security system (Dai, Hu, Chen & Cai, 2012). A security system could consist of a combination of video surveillance, alarm systems, anti-theft systems etc. Protection of Assets or Security Management based on System Theory A system approach comprises of interacting systems and activities based upon the scientific methods. By applying standard scientific theories and systems security management could be made more appropriate. It leads towards an integrated set of security functions that work as a whole in order to achieve the desired goals. According to system approach sophisticated techniques are incorporated to make assessments of threats and vulnerabilities, certain alternative security measures are compared to derive a suitable tactic depending upon its benefits and costs, past experiences are brought in and creative responses are suggested. Hence, it is an integrated approach rather than fragmented (Ramo & Clair, 1998). There are multiple security systems used by organizations i.e. access control system, intrusion detection systems, object protection systems, audio-visual surveillance and alarm systems etc. Below is the brief description of each of these systems: Access Control System This system comprises of electromagnetic locks, access control card technology, biometric readers etc. It hampers any unauthorized access to the area that needs security from any intrusion. It allows movement of selective and authorized people through entrances and exits, thus providing real time control and better security. Often the controlled doors need an encoded cards and readers. Readers analyze the code and give access after disengaging the lock. At some places a personal identification number or biological imprint data is required. For that very purpose, hand geometry, finger prints, retinal scanning, voice analysis, handwriting analysis etc. is required by the biometric readers to open a gate or door. So, the system design is totally site dependent. There are equal chances that this system may be made disable by the intruders through the use of cement, pastes etc. that could jam the readers. Some readers possess this ability to resist vandal features. Anti-pass back are also designed to stop any mishandling of the access control systems. These establish a specific sequence in which access cards should be used to get access (Commonwealth of Australia, 2011). Access control systems are associated with visual security systems and alarm systems to bring any illegitimate entry under the notice of the respective authorities. Intrusion Detection Systems This system is based upon interlinked set of sensors, control panels, local or remote reporting device like a siren or digital communicator. A phone line may also be used to send a signal to central monitoring station in case of any break-in which further send an alarm to police. This system is mostly deployed for the outermost boundaries protection. In this an electronic fence emitting microwave beam patterns that show an interruption in energy in case any person walks through or an invisible fence transmitting infrared beams alerts the security personnel about any possible intervention. Glass break detectors which are sensitive to vibrations or a shock or magnetic switches on the doors are also used. Magnetic switches are composed of a magnet and electrical contacts that stay aligned when the door is closed and only break when an attempt to open it is made. It has a drawback that intruders could attach another magnet on the top of switch and alarm is not set on. So, to solve this triple biased reed switch could be used that have three small and balanced hidden magnets. Any attempt to place another magnet on it would create the imbalance and alert the authorities. There are also stress detectors which are placed under the floor and sense vibrations in case of any pressure (Kostanoski, 1996). Object Protection System It is used in order to prevent any theft of valuable yet vulnerable assets. In this system tags and labels with microcircuits are attached to the objects that are brought in contact with energy field that is set up at exit areas thus, hampering any theft by sending an alert to security personnel. Mercury switches are also utilized that get tilted as soon as an object is moved and set the alarm on. Sometimes, fiber optic cables with pulsating beam of light are used to tie the objects. Wristwatches are also used which have a radio frequency transmitter that alerts the signal when the dial is pressed. It is often used by employees to avoid any damage to life or property (Kostanoski, 1996). Visual Surveillance Cameras are used to get real time information about any illegal activity going on at a place of concern. It detects the nature of threat, pattern of attack and its progress. By doing so it makes an intrusion easy to understand. It is also used as a deterrent because people are less likely to commit a crime if they know that they would be caught by a camera (Lipton, Fujiyoshi & Patel, 1998). This technology needs to be brought in notice of customers especially at places where they have privacy concerns like toilets or changing rooms. Computer vision technology that is associated with the cameras is often subjected to poor detection and high false alarm rates in realistic environment (Lipton, Heartwell, Haering & Madden, 2000). Organizations should administer this security measure with a consideration of certain limitations that could stop privacy invasions (Kostanoski, 1996). Multiplexers, which can get multiple images from different cameras at a time, are also used and individual pictures can be extracted from them to examine them closely. Video recording are also used in law courts as evidence. Alarm Systems This system is used in association with above mentioned systems that provide a warning in case of any suspicious activity. These systems are linked to some pre-determined responses to an intrusion. There are duress alarms that are triggered by to separate buttons to prevent any false alarms. Vehicle alarms, individual item alarms, pressure switches, motion sensors and CCTV activated alarms are also some types (Hong, Chi, Chao & Tang, 2003). In order to make these security systems successful an integrated system approach should be adopted which comprises of a set of certain theories like a security policy theory, risk management theory, control theory, management system theory, contingency theory etc. A well-balanced mix of these theories enables the management to detect any potential risks beforehand and determine the possible responses accordingly. Moreover, these security systems could give best outcomes when they are used in close collaborations and in a holistic or integrated fashion (Hong, Chi, Chao & Tang, 2003). Security policy theory is essential to make the security efforts effective by defining scope and limitations of the security systems. It includes security of data, platform security, communication and personal security and is implemented at different levels in an organization (Kilman & Stamp, 2005). Risk management theory that deals with the assessment and evaluation of risks and threats to the assets, helps in identifying security requirements and control measures (Hong, Chi, Chao & Tang, 2003). Control and audit theory encompasses the monitoring and measurement of the performance of the implemented security system. These are coordinated activities to avoid any illegal and unauthorized access through the evaluation of working of security systems (Young & Leveson, 2014). A management system theory helps in implementation of risk management and defines the scope of security. And according to contingency theory more than one security plans must be there to deal with different situations. It assesses the environment on time and links it with managerial capabilities to minimize any losses (Hong et al. 2003). These all theories have meaning when they are used collectively in an integrated manner and no single theory could best serve the objective of organizational security. This indicates a system approach where different components work together to make a whole while each component is dependent on the other for its proper working. Conclusion Reasoning out all this, it can be said that any traditional methods of securing the assets have become obsolete keeping in view the complexities of current technology. It needs a holistic approach where multiple sub systems could be merged into a single system approach to make the security system of any organization more effective and efficient. In such a system approach, all security systems like access control, intrusion detection, object protection, visual surveillance work in an integrated manner. On the other hand, designing a security policy, identification of possible threats, monitoring and evaluation of security performance makes the asset protection more effective. So, it can be said that system approach provides better security against any damage to the valuable assets by employing proper management tactics aligned with security systems. References Australian Government, (2011). Physical security management guidelines. Commonwealth of Australia. Dai, J., Hu, R., Chen, J., & Cai, Q. (2012). Benefit-cost analysis of security systems for multiple protected assets based on information entropy. Entropy, 14, 571-580. Davies, S. J., & Minion, R. R. (2008). Security supervision: Theory and practice of asset protection. Oxford, UK: Jordan Hill. Friedman, B. D., & Allen, K. N. (2010). Systems Theory. Retrieved August 22, 2014, from http://www.corwin.com/upm-data/32947_Chapter1.pdf Gabriel, G. C. (2003). 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