Why Technology Will Never Fully Replace A Human Security Guard

Technology is on track to change so many jobs, including totally replacing humans in many sectors. It’s not just in manufacturing either, automation is moving into the security market as well. As security technology improves, we’re seeing big innovations. Smart robot guards roam the halls of Silicon Valley headquarters checking badges and ‘smart buildings’ with special surveillance and lock systems are being built rapidly.

In fact, the Security Industry Association has reported that the global market for ‘smart buildings’ is on track to rise from $8.5 billion to $58 billion between 2016 and 2023. That’s a projected annual growth rate of 31.5%.

Do security guards have anything to worry about? The reality is… no. Security guard services using real, human uniformed guards won’t be going anywhere any time soon.

New tech = expensive tech.

Digital security companies are working on making their tech the best and most widely used. Like any other business, digital security companies are focused on growth. But many small companies, property owners, and others in the demographic for new security purchases won’t be able to afford the current smart security tech.

Most school systems in the U.S. won’t be able to afford the same security robots that big Silicon Valley offices can. The technology is new, expensive, and feels a little foreign. That’s not changing for quite a long time. Traditional security companies are still the most familiar and accessible option for security at special events and in commercial or residential buildings.

A robot doesn’t have the empathy and intuition of a person.

AI technology is rapidly improving and doing incredible things, but it is still artificial intelligence. Even the creation of an AI-powered security robot won’t put a big dent in the traditional industry. Why? Nothing beats the intuition and empathy used by a living, breathing person. A robot or sophisticated camera system can’t reason with a thief or assailant. They can’t connect with the people they’re protecting on a personal level. And they can’t follow their gut to make safer or smarter decisions.

Basically, new security technology is wonderful. It takes menial tasks out of the schedules of busy people and gives those nearby a sense of reassurance. But traditional human security guards aren’t concerned about their jobs. In a situation like security, humans ultimately trump technology.