Sharpen skills through education

Jun 1, 1998 12:00 PM, DONNA DAVIS

Today, security professionals must possess diverse qualifications and improve business performance through the integration of advanced technologies. Therefore, they must embark on a lifelong education program to advance general and specific skills and abilities. The typical industrial security organization exists to satisfy imposed compliance requirements, such as laws, regulations and contract directives, and/or to protect company assets from loss and harm. From a business accounting perspective, this type of security organization is a support entity that increases the cost of doing business, or, conversely, decreases profit. Security professionals are therefore challenged to adapt accounting and resources allocation models to sustain adequate business support for their organizations. Along with business integration and skill development, security must also fully embrace technology changes. Computers and sophisticated office equipment are integral to the modern workplace and will continue to progress rapidly. The proliferation of information technology presents two distinct challenges for contemporary security professionals: n First is the need to deploy enabling technologies to reduce security operating costs and improve functional performance. n Second is the charge to upgrade technology skills, both to operate complex equipment effectively and to understand complementary business areas. Information technology businesses have been steadily replacing manufacturing-based businesses. Similarly, protection technologies are quickly replacing human controls.

Developing skills through education Now, more than ever before, there are numerous opportunities to develop professional skills. No longer are higher education and training limited to formal or expensive means. Technology is driving a new era of education - accessible, affordable and sophisticated. Employers and universities are deploying advanced technologies in learning situations to recruit and retain professionals in intensely competitive markets. Long-distance learning through home-based programs and the Internet is experiencing dramatic growth in number and popularity. Education through technology enables comprehensive, continuous learning, and is quickly becoming the choice of adult students. The adage, "Everything is available through the Internet," is proving to be true relative to learning. Moreover, the cost associated with IT services continues to plummet, due to increased use and competition among providers. Besides offering extraordinary content at an affordable price, technology learning benefits also include: n Accessibility. Network access can be achieved across the globe, and learning can occur on demand according to specific needs. n Ease of use. Startup learning curves are short, and software is user-friendly. n Right measure. Information can be retrieved and used in customized amounts and on relevant subjects, as well as at appropriate levels. n Consistency of delivery. Learning can be configured to be consistently delivered to each recipient, thereby increasing quality control. n Bias-free. Technology learning eliminates all sorts of traditional bias. The future of education and learning relies heavily on efficient use of information technology.

Addressing computer and information security issues that impact security professionals, the column provides solutions to contemporary business challenges. The author, Donna Davis, is manager of security services and information systems security for Northrop Grumman Corp.'s Electronic Sensors and Systems Division.

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