The Security Institute

Security Research Initiative

The Security Research Initiative is supported by the British Security Industry Association, The Security Institute, and ASIS International, and is being sponsored by 13 companies. It involves a three year programme of studies. The research is led by Professor Martin Gill. We are currently undertaking research into the security sector where the aim is to evaluate topics that are of importance to the security world, and to develop insights and practical recommendations.

Year 1

Clients’ views of security
The first year focussed on an area that has received very little comment, Procurers' views. Procurement are an influential group in the purchase of security, and are often blamed by security professionals for making price a bigger priority than quality. The research suggests that the role of procurement is frequently misunderstood and that they were often critical of the security sector. A problem also emerged in that security was not purchased very often and so there was something of a knowledge vacuum. To fill the gap an 'Introduction to Purchasing Security' has been produced that is co-authored with the Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply (CIPS). The Guide aims to cover good practice but also tackles some tricky issues, such as:

• Whether those that quote the minimum price can deliver on all aspects of the contract.
• What you can get from a good supplier that you will not from a bad one.
• The nature of security risks and the precise impact that security measures can make.
• The benefit of using accredited suppliers.
• The need to check the veracity of tender documents.
• Why an overarching security strategy is important.
• How to get behind the sales pitch.