Following in-depth research into evolving trends shaping the physical security industry, Genetec shares insights into how these might impact facilities managers in 2025.
1. Hybrid-Cloud Adoption Will Gain Traction
As organizations become more strategic in how they approach and implement cloud solutions in their environment, decision-makers will prioritize hybrid systems. They’ll look for the best ways to centrally monitor remote sites from an on-premises head-end system and reduce on-site maintenance work with lightweight, quick-deploy hybrid cloud systems. They’ll want to modernize their video or access control systems without scrapping their existing tech investments. Those with deployments fully in the cloud may also want to optimize data processing and storage costs or facilitate broader third-party integrations using on-premises infrastructure.
Software-as-a-service (SaaS) solutions that are open, unified, and support hybrid-cloud environments will offer the most flexible path forward. Beyond adopting flexible deployment models, organizations will be able to combine video, access control, intrusion, intercom, and other sensors from a variety of manufacturers. They can also connect existing infrastructure so that they become available via the cloud and install new devices at their own pace. Cloud-managed appliances will be key for organizations who want to bring their existing hardware to the cloud. They’ll save time on deploying systems and save on the costs of changing non-compatible cameras or access control hardware—making the transition to the cloud easier.
2. AI Adoption Will Balance Innovation with Responsible Usage
Although the 2025 Genetec State of Physical Security Report found that nearly half of security decision-makers (42%) are interested in AI-driven solutions, concerns around privacy, ethics, and the potential for biased data remain prominent. In response, businesses are placing greater emphasis on adopting AI responsibly and seeking partners that prioritize ethical AI development and provide transparent governance practices. The report showed that while AI’s potential to improve operational efficiency and accelerate data analysis is widely acknowledged, organizations are also implementing AI governance protocols to ensure that it’s used safely and responsibly.
Responsible AI practices include monitoring for bias, ensuring data integrity, and complying with relevant data privacy regulations. AI-based security analytics, for example, can streamline video searches, enhance situational awareness, and improve response times, but organizations are demanding that these tools operate with transparency and prioritize data protection. Vendors that commit to responsible AI practices will have a significant advantage as businesses seek partnerships with ethical, trustworthy AI providers.
3. Organizations Will Prioritize Regulation Compliance
As cybersecurity threats and regulatory requirements grow, compliance has become a primary concern for security leaders. According to recent data, the cost of a data breach reached a record high in 2024, underscoring the need for robust compliance measures. Key regulations like GDPR, NIS2, and HIPAA are shaping how organizations approach data protection, especially as more security systems rely on interconnected networks and cloud storage.
In 2025, organizations will focus on strengthening cyber hygiene practices, improving data encryption, and aligning with international and industry-specific regulatory requirements. This commitment extends to partnering with vendors who have the technical knowledge and resources to ensure compliance across various security systems. Organizations subject to stringent regulations aren’t only prioritizing data protection but also investing in compliance-focused solutions to avoid penalties and protect their reputations.
4. Cross-Departmental Collaboration Will Enhance Security Operations
As staffing shortages and budget constraints persist, collaboration between security, IT, facilities, and human resources departments will become essential for effective security management. Organizations will implement workforce optimization tools that empower team members across departments to take a more active role in security tasks, streamline workflows, and eliminate bottlenecks.
Digital evidence management tools simplify the process of collecting, managing, reviewing, and collaborating on investigations, while work management software centralizes information to enhance communication through work dispatching, resource management, and reporting and auditing. By equipping departments with greater information and autonomy, organizations can further reduce stress for security teams and improve operational efficiency. With these solutions, team members—regardless of their role or location—can take greater initiative in completing tasks, boosting productivity and overall organizational output.
5. Stakeholders Will Demand More from Service Providers
Choosing physical security solutions is no longer solely the responsibility of security professionals. IT teams, SecOps, and facilities teams are increasingly involved in decision-making processes.
Each group brings its own challenges, requirements, and priorities:
- Security professionals focus on streamlining response and investigative tasks;
- IT teams emphasize data and network protection and maintenance efficiency;
- SecOps teams prioritize cybersecurity, process automation, and data optimization; and
- Facilities teams and other stakeholders seek simplified operations and actionable business insights.
This shift means that end users will expect more from service providers, including channel partners, consultants, and technology vendors. Providers will need to demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of cybersecurity, operational efficiency, and data governance while offering cohesive guidance that addresses diverse stakeholder needs. By fostering strong partnerships, service providers can add value throughout various stages of the deployment lifecycle, strengthening security operations and the practical implementation of business intelligence.
Mark Feider is the director for the enterprise sector in the U.S. and Canada at Genetec Inc. He is responsible for helping the enterprise group members meet their goals by orchestrating company resources and developing the programs his team needs to succeed. The company’s 2025 State of Physical Security Report is available for download here.
Make sure to sign up for Facilities Management Advisor’s upcoming webinar, “OnSite Insights: Top Predictions for Building Security in 2025.” More info and FREE registration are available here.