[MTE] [Apr 2025] [P2] Strategic BCM for Security: Navigating PWM, Client Demands, and Beyond

Part 2: Strategic BCM for Security: Navigating PWM, Client Demands, and Beyond

Leveraging AI and Robotics for Strategic Security

AI has proven to be a powerful tool in enhancing security operations, providing a force multiplier that allows businesses to do more with fewer resources.

One key strategy discussed is adopting AI-enhanced CCTV systems, which have been shown to reduce costs by up to 50%. This cost-effective technology and mobile responses enable security teams to react dynamically to real-time risks.

For instance, hybrid power systems — integrating human and technological resources — can ensure seamless continuity when workforce shortages or disruptions such as transportation breakdowns occur.

The role of AI in security is not about replacing human personnel but augmenting their capabilities. AI is a valuable tool when human limitations come into play, such as stress-induced errors or lapses in decision-making under pressure.

AI can work alongside humans, enhancing security operations' overall efficiency and reliability.

Companies that integrate AI bots or tools to support security officers are already leading the way in this domain, fostering a collaborative environment where technology and humans coexist harmoniously.

Next-Generation Technology for Enhanced Situational Awareness

Security professionals can access more sophisticated tools to improve operational effectiveness as technology advances.

Traditional communication devices, such as walkie-talkies, are gradually being replaced by more advanced technologies, including GPS tracking, noise cancellation systems, and dedicated mobile apps.

These tools allow better incident reporting, real-time location tracking, and hands-free communication.

Additionally, the rise of safety monitoring drones that operate autonomously has further transformed the security landscape. These drones can conduct patrols and provide valuable surveillance data without human intervention, enhancing situational awareness and ensuring continuous monitoring of critical areas.

Integrated command hubs consolidate the data from various sources, improving the overall security management and response times.

Such advancements align with clients' expectations, who demand that security teams demonstrate control and preparedness.

Using AI to provide hyper-personalised alerts ensures that security officers can focus on high-priority tasks, reducing communication noise and allowing for more strategic actions.

Overcoming Bias and Challenges in Adopting AI

Despite AI's evident benefits, overcoming biases against automation remains a significant challenge.

Public perception tends to be more critical of robotic and AI failures than human ones, which can hinder the adoption of such technologies.

For instance, in the case of autonomous vehicles, a single accident could spark widespread calls for bans, even though human-driven vehicles are involved in far more accidents.

This bias can prevent businesses from fully embracing AI's potential. However, it is essential to recognise that AI systems can still outperform human operations in many areas despite their imperfections.

AI can significantly enhance operational efficiency by reducing mistakes from 10 per day to just two, even though it is not flawless.

Training and Operational Efficiency

Training is another critical aspect where technology can play a pivotal role. Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) have evolved significantly in recent years, offering realistic simulations for security training without relying on physical presence.

These tools enable security personnel to undergo comprehensive training and gain experience in different scenarios without the need for on-site instructors. Innovations such as Apple's Vision Pro have made it possible to experience these technologies in more immersive and effective ways.

This shift allows businesses to maintain continuity, ensuring that skills are retained and tasks can be completed without key personnel.

Additionally, VR and AR enable security teams to provide remote guidance and support, increasing operational flexibility.

Addressing Challenges: Power Outages and Communication Failures

While technology provides numerous advantages, it also introduces potential risks, particularly around power outages and communication failures. These are common threats that can disrupt operations when they are needed the most.

To mitigate such risks, businesses must invest in robust solutions like UPS (uninterruptible power supplies) systems, mesh networks, and hybrid cloud setups.

Regular testing and maintenance of these systems are critical to ensure their reliability during emergencies.

A proactive approach to contingency planning, including manual protocols and backup systems, ensures business continuity. As part of BCM, organisations must regularly assess and refine these plans to address emerging risks.

The Current Threat Landscape

One of the major threats to modern security is the rise of cyberattacks, particularly targeting the Internet of Things (IoT) devices. Singapore, for example, is the second-most targeted nation worldwide for IoT-based attacks, just behind the United States. The question then arises: why would attackers target Singapore?

The answer is simple—it's either because it's worth attacking or because it's easy to attack. Organisations need to integrate BCM more strategically into their security frameworks in this environment.

Rather than focusing solely on physical attacks or traditional disruption methods, businesses should consider how technology and social engineering can be leveraged to exploit vulnerabilities.

Moreover, environmental threats such as climate change, extreme heat, monsoons, and occasional flooding further complicate BCM strategies.

The global landscape also witnessed a significant shift due to the COVID-19 pandemic, reinforcing the need for businesses to operate seamlessly with remote workforces.

Organisations now realise that readiness to function remotely is no longer a "nice-to-have" but a fundamental requirement for business continuity.

Client Retention Through Resilience

Maintaining client retention is at the heart of a strong BCM strategy. Security providers focus heavily on long-term relationships, and by demonstrating resilience and adaptability to ever-changing threats, companies can differentiate themselves in competitive markets.

Cost avoidance—particularly minimising disruptions—has become a key selling point. However, as businesses look to secure contracts and clients for extended periods, showing how well they can handle shifting environmental and technological challenges becomes a critical differentiator.

An excellent example of this can be seen in the real estate sector, where companies like Capitaland have leveraged technology and BCM strategies to save costs and maintain continuity, even in the face of external disruptions.

The role of technology funding in Singapore’s business continuity landscape is also notable. Government initiatives assist businesses with tech investments, which is not always the case in other countries, making Singapore’s situation unique.

The Value of BCM: Efficiency and Resource Optimisation

BCM strategies go beyond protecting organisations from loss—they also create opportunities for efficiency and resource optimisation. For instance, in the security industry, companies traditionally relied on manpower.

However, by streamlining operations, organisations can reduce headcounts while maintaining or increasing operational effectiveness. This shift allows for greater profit margins while still providing value to clients.

The key challenge lies in demonstrating the tangible value of BCM strategies to clients. Often, clients won’t see the immediate benefits of continuity planning until they experience a disruption, making it difficult to quantify the return on investment.

However, it’s crucial to recognise that BCM doesn’t just protect against loss; it actively enhances an organisation's ability to function smoothly in unpredictable environments, contributing to long-term client satisfaction.

Integration and Cross-Industry Learning

To build a truly resilient BCM strategy, it is essential to integrate various elements from across industries. Lessons learned from other sectors, such as aviation's fatigue mitigation strategies or logistics' dynamic systems, can be applied to security and BCM planning.

Additionally, adopting an integrated approach that combines technological and human capital elements helps create more adaptive, responsive, and resilient systems.

Security professionals can draw valuable insights from critical infrastructure models like "defence in depth," where systems are built with redundancies and layered security protocols.

Similarly, adapting practices from industries that require real-time adaptability, such as the logistics sector, where port systems are dynamic and highly responsive, can enhance BCM strategies by promoting more flexible and adaptive models in security operations.

The Importance of Agility and Proactive Management

An often-overlooked aspect of BCM is the handling of minor disruptions. While large-scale crises may attract attention, managing more minor, frequent disruptions builds trust and strengthens client relationships.

Proactively addressing these issues prevents them from escalating into significant problems and ensures that operations continue smoothly.

Furthermore, embedding BCM processes into a business's daily operations, from leadership to ground staff, ensures that continuity becomes integral to organisational culture, leading to more personalised and adaptive responses to emerging threats.

Moreover, BCM should focus on agility. While documentation and log management are crucial, the ability to respond to threats in real-time with the support of advanced technologies and human expertise is paramount.

By balancing tech solutions with non-tech approaches, organisations can create a comprehensive BCM system that addresses hard and soft factors.

Moving Forward: Creating Value Through BCM

Looking ahead, organisations must focus on two core principles: value creation and value preservation. A robust BCM framework ensures that a business can recover quickly from disruptions, allowing it to add more value to its offerings.

This dual focus creates a competitive advantage, where clients perceive a service provider as more reliable and valuable due to their strategic approach to BCM.

Additionally, businesses must evaluate and integrate new technologies to continuously improve BCM outcomes.

From tech resilience to real-time adaptability, BCM strategies must evolve to meet the ever-changing security environment.

By quantifying the value of BCM beyond simple cost metrics, companies can demonstrate their competitive edge to clients, making their service offering indispensable.

In conclusion, BCM is no longer just about risk mitigation—it is about creating a resilient, adaptive, and efficient organisation that can thrive in the face of uncertainty.

By integrating lessons from various industries, embracing new technologies, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement, businesses can enhance their security frameworks and deliver lasting value to their clients.

Summing Up for Part 2 ...

In today’s security landscape, a strategic BCM approach that integrates AI, advanced communication tools, and next-generation technology is essential for navigating client demands and operational risks.

By effectively leveraging these tools, businesses can enhance their security posture, improve situational awareness, and maintain continuity despite unexpected challenges.

While there are hurdles to overcome, particularly in public perception and technological limitations, the future of security operations lies in the seamless collaboration between human expertise and artificial intelligence.

In Part 2 of the discussion, we explored the increasingly complex threat environment impacting business continuity management (BCM), from climate-related disruptions and pandemics to persistent cyber and physical risks.

Kamlesh Ramchand clarified that organisations can no longer treat remote readiness or operational resilience as optional—they are baseline expectations.

He emphasised that while many external threats are beyond our control, what distinguishes resilient businesses is how they integrate BCM into everyday operations and leadership thinking.

The evolving landscape demands not just reactionary planning but proactive strategies that support continuity through adaptive frameworks, all while aligning with regulatory compliance and client expectations.

Another standout theme was the importance of client-centric value creation and internal capacity building. Kamlesh illustrated how BCM, when executed well, can enhance contract differentiation, customer retention, and profitability, primarily through resource optimisation and strategic use of manpower.

He also challenged traditional notions by encouraging cross-industry learning, promoting in-house BCM ownership over outsourced templates, and urging companies to focus on major and minor disruptions.

His closing message was clear: the future of BCM lies not in isolated documentation or cost-driven compliance, but in deeply integrated, continuously reviewed, and people-powered resilience that creates true competitive dominance.

Dr Goh Moh Heng, President of BCM Institute, summarises this webinar. If you have any questions, please speak to the author.