muniBLOG: Financial

Part 2 – The Series – Unveiling the Strategies of Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) for Government Facilities

This is the second installment article in a series of articles addressing Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) in Government Facilities. Note that all the strategies mentioned throughout the articles presented can be applied to a variety of facilities and organizations.

 

The Integral Role of Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design in Government Facilities

In the world of security and urban design, the significance of Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) in government facilities is profound and multifaceted. Government buildings, often repositories of sensitive information and hubs for high-profile individuals, require an elevated level of security. Here, CPTED plays a pivotal role in creating spaces that naturally deter criminal activities, thus bolstering the overall security of these critical infrastructures.

One of the foremost advantages of implementing CPTED in government facilities is the enhancement of public safety. These buildings, which are frequented by the public and employees alike, benefit immensely from the safety principles embedded in CPTED. By increasing natural surveillance and effectively controlling access, the risks of threats such as theft, vandalism, or more severe criminal activities are substantially mitigated.

Apart from fortifying security, CPTED is renowned for its cost-effectiveness. The strategy leans towards smart design choices, reducing the over-reliance on technological or personnel-based security measures. This approach to security not only cuts down long-term costs but also minimizes the need for expensive surveillance systems or extensive security personnel, making it an economically viable option for government facilities.

CPTED principles also contribute significantly to the aesthetics and environment of government buildings. The focus is not just on functional security elements but also on ensuring that these design aspects are visually appealing. Such an environment is more welcoming and comfortable, enhancing the experience for both the public and employees.

Furthermore, the implementation of CPTED in government facilities can boost community confidence and trust. When these facilities are perceived as safe and well-maintained, it reinforces public trust in the government, fostering a stronger bond between government entities and the communities they serve.

Beyond the aesthetic and trust-building aspects, CPTED is instrumental in the prevention of crime and anti-social behavior. By proactively designing environments that discourage such behaviors, government facilities can pre-emptively address security concerns, rather than merely reacting to incidents post-occurrence.

The flexibility and adaptability of CPTED principles stand out as one of their key strengths. These principles can be tailored to various types of government facilities, ranging from office buildings to public parks. They can be seamlessly integrated into both existing structures and new designs, showcasing the versatility of CPTED as a tool for security and crime prevention.

Moreover, CPTED plays a significant role in alleviating the fear of crime. A well-maintained and secure facility not only reduces actual crime rates but also diminishes the fear of crime among employees and visitors, fostering a sense of comfort and reassurance.

In certain regions, integrating CPTED principles into the design and operation of government facilities is also a matter of regulatory compliance. This ensures that these facilities meet specific safety and security standards, further cementing the importance of CPTED in the governmental sector.

In summary, the role of Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design in the realm of government facilities is indispensable. It contributes not only to the tangible aspects of security and functionality but also to the intangible elements of well-being and public perception. The impact of CPTED in shaping safer, more efficient, and welcoming government spaces is indeed substantial and far-reaching.

If your Municipality wants to learn more about this topic and read the full article version visit here. Feel free to contact me directly at [email protected] for further assistance.

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The Series – Unveiling the Strategies of Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) for Government Facilities

This is the initial article in a series of articles addressing Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) in Government Facilities. Note that all the strategies mentioned throughout the articles presented can be applied to a variety of facilities and organizations.

Article One.

In the landscape of modern urban development and security, Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) still today emerges as a groundbreaking multi-disciplinary approach that intertwines environmental design with crime deterrence. At its core, CPTED is about reshaping buildings, spaces, and entire urban environments to not only reduce the opportunities for criminal activities but also to elevate the overall sense of safety perceived by the public.

It’s foundation is rooted in less than a handful of principles, natural surveillance, natural access control, territorial reinforcement and maintenance.

At the heart of CPTED lies the principle of natural surveillance. This aspect is focused on increasing the visibility within spaces. The idea is simple yet profound: by designing physical environments to maximize visibility—through clear sight lines, strategic placement of windows, and effective lighting—those who might have criminal intent are more likely to feel observed. This heightened visibility acts as a deterrent to potential offenders, reducing the likelihood of criminal behavior.

Equally crucial to CPTED’s approach is the concept of natural access control. This involves the thoughtful guiding of how people and vehicles move within an environment. By establishing well-defined paths, entrances, and exits, and complementing these with elements like fences, signage, and landscaping, CPTED practitioners can control and restrict access to specific areas. This not only makes it more challenging for criminal activities to take place but also aids in overall crowd management and flow within a space.

Another key principle in the CPTED framework is territorial reinforcement. This principle leverages physical attributes—such as fencing, signage, landscaping, and distinctive pavement designs—to express ownership over a space. The clear demarcation between public and private spaces fosters a sense of ownership and responsibility among those who occupy these spaces. This sense of territoriality is instrumental in discouraging potential trespassers and unauthorized individuals from encroaching on these spaces.

Maintenance plays a subtle yet significant role in CPTED. An environment that is well-maintained and cared for signals that the area is under watchful eyes. Regular upkeep, be it fixing broken amenities, addressing graffiti, or keeping landscapes in pristine condition, suggests that any illicit activities are more likely to be noticed and addressed promptly. This aspect of maintenance serves not just to enhance the aesthetic appeal of a space but also to reinforce the idea that the area is monitored and secured.

Expanding beyond these core principles, some CPTED frameworks also incorporate the concepts of activity support and management. This involves promoting activities and behaviors that align with the intended use of a space. For instance, organizing community events in a park not only increases the legitimate use of that space but also enhances natural surveillance. The presence of regular, organized activities can act as a natural deterrent to criminal behaviors, as these spaces are consistently occupied and observed by the community.

CPTED’s strategies are increasingly being integrated into urban planning, architecture, and community development initiatives. These strategies are pivotal in forging safer neighborhoods, parks, schools, and public spaces. By emphasizing the influential role of the physical environment on human behavior, CPTED aims to mitigate the fear of crime and reduce the actual incidence of criminal activities. Through its thoughtful and strategic approach, CPTED stands as a beacon in the creation of secure, inviting, and resilient urban spaces.

If your Municipality wants to learn more about this topic and read the full article version visit here. Feel free to contact me directly at [email protected] for further assistance.

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Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design: Understanding Its Significance and Implications

Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) has emerged as a pivotal strategy in the realm of urban planning and public safety. This approach focuses on the design, manipulation, and management of the physical environment to reduce opportunities for crime, thereby enhancing the quality of life for community members. This article delves into the rationale behind conducting a CPTED survey, its benefits, the stakeholders who gain from it, and the potential drawbacks, offering a comprehensive perspective for professionals in the field.

As professionals well-versed in the nuances of urban safety and planning, you are likely familiar with the concept of Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED). This strategic approach has become increasingly relevant in our efforts to cultivate safer, more harmonious urban spaces. If you are considering the implementation of a CPTED survey, or if you have questions regarding its scope and effectiveness, this article aims to provide you with comprehensive insights that will inform your decision-making process.

CPTED stands as a testament to the profound impact that environmental design can have on crime prevention and community well-being. Rooted in the understanding that the physical environment plays a crucial role in influencing behavior, CPTED strategies involve the meticulous assessment and modification of environmental factors to reduce crime and enhance the quality of life for residents. This article delves into the essential components of a CPTED survey, exploring why such a survey is pivotal, the manifold benefits it offers, the diverse stakeholders who stand to gain, and the potential challenges that need to be navigated.

Our objective here is not just to underscore the importance of CPTED surveys but also to equip you with the knowledge to effectively implement and leverage these surveys in your respective domains. Whether you are at the cusp of initiating a CPTED survey or are seeking to deepen your understanding of its implications, this discussion aims to shed light on the critical aspects of CPTED, ensuring that your approach to urban safety and planning is both informed and impactful.

Why Conduct a CPTED Survey?

A CPTED survey is essential for several reasons:

  1. Risk Assessment: It helps in identifying potential security risks and vulnerabilities in a particular area.
  2. Customized Solutions: It enables the development of tailored strategies that address specific local crime issues.
  3. Stakeholder Engagement: Such surveys involve community members, fostering a sense of ownership and collaboration in crime prevention efforts.

Benefits of a CPTED Survey

The benefits of conducting a CPTED survey are multifaceted:

  1. Reduced Crime Rates: Properly implemented CPTED principles have been shown to decrease crime rates significantly.
  2. Enhanced Public Safety: It improves the perception of safety and security among residents.
  3. Economic Advantages: A safer environment can lead to increased property values and business activities.
  4. Sustainable Development: CPTED principles contribute to sustainable urban development by promoting safe and livable environments.

Beneficiaries of CPTED

The beneficiaries of CPTED surveys extend beyond individual residents:

  1. Local Communities: Residents benefit from safer and more secure living environments.
  2. Law Enforcement: Police can focus resources more effectively when environmental design reduces opportunities for crime.
  3. Urban Planners and Developers: Insights from CPTED surveys aid in creating safer urban spaces.
  4. Business Owners: A safe environment can boost customer footfall and economic activity.

Drawbacks of CPTED

While beneficial, CPTED surveys also have limitations:

  1. Resource Intensive: Conducting thorough surveys requires significant time and financial resources.
  2. Potential for Discrimination: There is a risk of promoting exclusionary practices, inadvertently targeting specific groups.

3.       Overemphasis on Surveillance: Excessive focus on surveillance can lead to privacy concerns and a ‘fortress mentality’.

Conclusion

CPTED surveys are a critical tool in the urban planner’s repertoire, offering significant benefits in terms of crime reduction, enhanced safety, and community well-being. However, it is crucial to approach these surveys with an understanding of their potential drawbacks and ensure that they are implemented in an inclusive, ethical, and resource-efficient manner.

 

If your Municipality wants to learn more about this topic and read the full article version visit here. Feel free to contact me directly at [email protected] for further assistance.

 

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Ontario’s Minimum Wage & The Inflationary Wage Spiral

With the minimum wage in Ontario set to increase significantly by +6.7% in October, we’re seeing many employers in this high inflation environment budgeting for increases of between 3% to 5% (or more) — much higher than the historical average of 1.5% to 3.0%. Hourly wages increased on average by 4.0% in 2022, compared to the historical pre-pandemic average of 2.5% (+/-). 2023 is not over but early data suggests wages at the macro-level could increase at a higher pace again this year than the historical norm (following a CPI increase last year of +6.7% – which is why the Ontario minimum wage is going up by that amount in October – it is tied to the annual CPI measurement).

Hopefully inflation will cool but current trends are not yet consistently supporting that view (July CPI was 3.3% vs the same month last year, though economists were predicting it would be lower, at 3.0%).While the economy contracted at an annualized rate of 0.2 per cent in the second quarter of 2023 (which was far weaker than forecasters had expected) it remains to be seen if this is indeed a sign of tapering that will continue in the quarters ahead. At the same time, it appears that wage gains are finally outstripping inflation, meaning there is real growth in wages for the first time, in a long time.

“Entry level” staff seem to be the most difficult to attract and retain right now and it remains to be seen if a higher minimum wage in October will address this shortage. Not unlike 2018 when the provincial government increased the minimum wage to $14.00 (from $11.60), there was a huge cost-crunch for employers that also threw off the internal equilibrium in many organizations with lower-wage workers making as much as more skilled counterparts due to the sudden jump.This will occur again but to a lesser degree (compression between lower paid staff and mid-range employees).

Higher salary budgets may be required for some time, even in the face of a weakening economy. Targeted actions may also be required to address internal-equity imbalances, particularly after the October hike to the minimum wage (we are also mindful that these above-average recommendations themselves contribute to the inflation we are all experiencing). We are told that inflation will cool this year and next, and if that holds true, we should see increases reduce to the 2-3% range again. Time will tell.

 

(Need more information or other Human Resources advice?  Please feel free to contact us for more information about our services including our HRLive platform, a turnkey solution built to address the HR needs of small-to-medium municipalities).

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The power of plain language in the ChatGPT age

Does it sometimes seem that no one is listening, or even reading? Do you have a sneaking suspicion that your work is being marginalized, or even ignored? Experience and research tells us that it’s not you, or your work. It’s how you’re saying it.
A recent study in the U.S. proves the point, with data to back it up. The aptly-titled The Effectiveness of Plain Language Proven by Data showed that 72 per cent of readers preferred plain language in disclosure documents. Why? The benefits of plain language include faster reading, quicker understanding, and better message retention. Sixty four percent of readers perceived the plain language text as well-written, making them more inclined to accept and appreciate the message in the document.
How can you take advantage of this in your work? The U.S. National Archives sums it up neatly: “Plain language is clear, concise, organized, and appropriate for the intended audience.” Their Top 10 Principles for Plain Language provide a clear road map to help anyone who writes (and isn’t that everyone?) improve their communication. Their list follows, with my own examples from many years of writing and editing for a variety of clients who will remain nameless.

1. Write for your reader, not yourself. Use pronouns when you can.
The first step here is to identify the reader. It’s not you. Is it your boss, your subordinate, your client or user base, or all three? As you write, picture them reading and understanding your message. Will they “get it” on the first pass? They will only be impressed with you and your work if they do. Use language and diction they will immediately understand.
Unless you are literally writing for a Grade 7 audience, don’t write for a Grade 7 audience, or any other arbitrary measure. A client recently told me that they wanted a Grade 7 reading level, for a public-facing document addressing some serious and complex societal issues. “How many Grade 7 students will be reading the document?” I asked. They understood immediately. The goal is to communicate with your audiences, not hit the magic number on an arbitrary (and often inaccurate) scale.
Needless repetitions of nouns bore and annoy the reader. Pronouns are your friends. Yes, they are your friends. Use them wisely and see readability and comprehension soar.

2. State your major point(s) first before going into details.
The “inverted pyramid” model of writing was invented to deal with the limited space on a printed page. Copy editors can always squeeze a story into a tight space by starting with the most important points and then lopping off the details from the bottom until the content fits. The reader still gets the salient points. Ironically, with the limitless space now offered by digital media, this principle is more important than ever. The short attention span of today’s readers ensures that many will only read the first few lines of your work. Make them count!

3. Stick to your topic. Limit each paragraph to one idea and keep it short.
Did I tell you about the time I had to edit this piece? I was having a bad day, because my dog had just run away with the circus, and then I started to write. Well, …
Some lucky people can simply start writing at the beginning, and know exactly where to start a new paragraph. Others among us need some sort of outline. Rather than spending hours outlining, take pen in hand and write out the key words for each paragraph. In writing this piece, I cheated a bit by using the structure of the Top 10 principles I referred to at the start. Either way, you always need some sort of structure, however minimalist.
As a speech writing teacher once told me, it’s a simple three-step process to write and deliver a good speech. 1. Tell them what you’re going to tell them. 2. Tell them. 3. Tell them what you just told them. (You may have to read that aloud to make sense of it.) In other words, your writing should have an introduction, a body, and a summary. This applies to the document as a whole, and also to each paragraph.

4. Write in active voice. Use the passive voice only in rare cases.
This is the one that many people either don’t understand, or ignore. Many organizations subtly encourage the passive voice to serve as an insurance policy for incompetence or timidity. Lawyers, bureaucrats, and accountants are especially susceptible to this. Here’s an example from an audit report.
Scope
The scope of our audit included a general review of the operating and reporting practices, together with analysis and assessment of the financial and other records, as we considered appropriate in the circumstances. It also included such tests and analysis as well as discussions and interviews as deemed necessary.
Here’s the plain language version:
Scope
We assessed operating and reporting practices and financial and other records. We also interviewed staff and management.

5. Use short sentences as much as possible.
Readers get lost in a long sentence. Be suspicious of more than one comma. Beware of “boilerplate” phrases that lengthen your sentences. Follow the natural English order of Subject, Verb, and Object.
Another example from an audit report:
Our observations lead us to the conclusion that the clinic is in default.
The clinic is in default.

6. Use everyday words. If you must use technical terms, explain them on the first reference.
Tailor your vocabulary to your readers. If you’re not sure whether the reader will understand a word, provide a short definition. I recently edited a document where the word “intersectionality” (where multiple forms of discrimination combine, overlap, or intersect) was prominent. With the rise of neologisms (new words, usages, or expressions) in every field, this is more important than ever.

7. Omit unneeded words.
Excess verbiage (too many words) is the bane of many writers, especially those with professional designations. You will not impress anyone with writing that forces the reader along a tortuous path to enlightenment. Get to the point!

8. Keep the subject and verb close together.
It’s almost always better to follow the natural English order of Subject, Verb, and Object.
Having ascertained the whereabouts of its perennial foe, the cat, which was known for a visceral dislike (possibly hatred) of virtually all of the rodents it encountered on its nocturnal perambulations, killed the mouse.
Or, “The cat killed the mouse.”
Showy consultant language as above puts a lot of distance between the subject and the verb and object. It does nothing to deliver the message.

9. Use headings, lists, and tables to make reading easier.
Short sentences are good. To shorten them where there is a long list, use a colon and bullets. Never add commas or semi-colons to bullet points. The bullet points are all the punctuation you need. In the editing business, these are known as redundant redundancies.

10. Proofread your work, and have a colleague proof it as well.
Spell check eliminates most errors, but even the best bot won’t notice if you miss word. Errors like the missing “a”in the previous sentence are very common. They are sloppy and harm your credibility. To avoid them, print out your work. Follow along with a “read-aloud” from your word processor. Asking a colleague to team up for a read-aloud proofing is usually not practical, but tech and paper get the job done. You will be amazed at how many errors you can find with this method.

What about the chatbot?
So what does this have to do with ChatGPT? Absolutely nothing. But if you have read this far, you have learned the power of a good lead. And you have also learned how to better communicate with your audiences.

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Double the Data, Double the Cost: The Price of Duplicating Your Data Entry

As a Town Manager, you are likely familiar with the challenges that arise when having to duplicate data entry across multiple, unconnected systems. Having to repeatedly input information about citizen issues, as one example, into different platforms not only takes extra labour, but also introduces more potential points of error. Redundancies like these in your internal processes can compromise the integrity of your entire municipality’s data. This is where Application Programming Interfaces, known as API’s, can be introduced. API’s reduce the duplication of data entry and streamline operations across all departments and platforms. Therefore, when selecting a platform for your municipality, picking one that is able to utilize API’s is an important consideration.  AccessE11™ is a centralized software solution that provides a single, consolidated platform for your entire municipality.

Bad Data is a Big Problem

frustrated worker

It makes sense that having to enter data multiple times, across multiple platforms, can (and will) lead to mistakes. Every time a person must manually enter data into a program, there’s an opportunity for something incorrect to be entered. If you have multiple people entering the same data, that then leaves even more opportunity for errors. But how much of an issue is bad data anyways?

From a cost perspective, bad data is unfathomably expensive. A report by IBM in 2016 estimated that bad data costs the U.S. over $3 trillion per year. Costs associated with maintaining bad and duplicate data can take various forms. For instance, when a citizen’s information is only partially entered in a database, it requires additional time and effort to collect and compile all available data on that individual. The labour cost of managing inaccurate and redundant data compounds at every stage of the data lifecycle, including data entry, retrieval, and cleaning. These activities require valuable labor hours that could otherwise be allocated to other important tasks.

Financial costs aside, there are other factors that come into play with bad data. Missing information can lead to ineffective customer service. This will negatively impact the trust that resident’s have of the staff and their municipality. Reporting becomes more difficult, or even impossible, if the data is not easily retrievable.

How to Fix the Problem

API

AccessE11 is a modern citizen issue and citizen relationship management platform designed specifically for small to medium municipalities. It is a software created to assist with the issues discussed above by providing a single, consolidated platform which can span the entire municipality. Utilizing an open API, AccessE11 is capable of seamlessly integrating with many other asset management and workflow products, such as Cartegraph and Brightly. Thus ensuring that staff and citizens alike need to only enter data one time and have that data reflected across all platforms and departments. Additionally, these integrations improve reporting functionality by enabling staff members to access all records at the same time. This provides assurance that the data they are accessing is complete and accurate. Visit our website today and schedule a demo with one of our reps.

As a Town Manager, it is important to consider the benefits of offering a centralized software solution for your municipality that can help reduce the potential for issues caused by data redundancy and bad data creation. AccessE11 will help you to better serve your citizens and ultimately improve the overall performance of your municipality.

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About Municipal Strategic Planning

bullseye and arrow

When candidates run for municipal Council, they do so not only because they have a passion for helping their communities, but they also often have ideas and goals for the community.   

From my experience, the most successful municipalities are those where Council and staff work as a team to achieve identified goals. That’s why it’s imperative to undertake a strategic planning process early in a new Council term.  The process serves important learning and teamwork objectives for both Council members and staff and really starts to get the team pulling in the same direction.

Many great articles have been written by various municipal scholars and organizations on strategic planning, so I’m not going to start reinventing the wheel here, but there is merit in taking a look at a few great examples that will remind us all of what Municipal Strategic Planning is, the value of Strategic Planning for communities and how a municipality goes about undertaking a strategic planning process.

What is Strategic Planning?

#1 – Source: MMAH Municipal Councillors Guide

Strategic planning is a process by which an organization defines its strategy or direction, and makes decisions about allocating its resources – both financial and staff resources needed to pursue this strategy. Through the strategic planning process, a municipal council can develop strategies, goals, objectives and action plans to achieve the future it desires. Once a strategic plan is adopted, a municipality may wish to measure its success over time and review the plan periodically to ensure that it still aligns with current issues, challenges and realities.

Why is it important for Municipalities?

#2 – Source: Bill Winegard, Municipal Strategic Planning Associates

Undertaking a strategic planning process at the beginning of each Council term is critically important to successful municipal governance by:

  • identifying where consensus lies among members of Council
  • establishing priorities for the term and indicators of success
  • enunciating at a meaningful level the commitment of the Council and Corporation to the community and the results that the community should expect
  • aligning the efforts of staff with the direction of Council
  • motivating Council members, staff, and other partners to work purposefully, and to monitor and take pride in their accomplishments
  • sketching out a council term action plan sequence that keeps the most important things top of mind
  • balancing a promising vision with feasible resources

How Do We Undertake a Strategic Planning Process?

#3 – Source: AMCTO – Continually Improving Municipalities to Achieve Strategic Success

A strategic plan is not static, but should be a guiding document which sets out the vision and priorities of the municipality. In this way, it establishes a framework that the municipality’s operations can align with. Strategic success is often seen as being able to achieve the initiatives in the plan.

However, equally important but often overlooked, is the need to ensure service delivery yields value for money for taxpayers. This can be accomplished by linking daily operations with the strategic goals of the organization and developing mechanisms to ensure a continual improvement of organizational performance.

#4 – Source: ICMA Blog Post on Strategic Planning, by Sara McGuffin, Town Manager, Amherst, Virginia 

Through this (strategic planning) process, small communities can remember what makes them unique, focus their efforts on what unites them, and move toward a better future, and do so in a way that pulls the community closer, rather than drives it apart.

Strategic planning that involves the community, incorporates the unique vision and goals of the community, is agreed to by the elected body, and tied firmly to our budgets, will keep residents, staff, and elected representatives focused on the business, as well as the vision, of government and how to make the community a better place.

Are there any Tools to help Small Municipalities with Strategic Planning?

#5 – Source: ICMA Strategic Planning in Small Communities – A Manager’s Manual, by Sara McGuffin, Town manager, Amherst, Virginia 

The Canadian Association of Municipal Administrators (CAMA) recently circulated this tool from the International City/County Managers Association (ICMA).  

This resource will help local government leaders remember what they know and find additional tools to do their budgeting and strategic planning better. You can also download the introduction to the manual by Sara McGuffin here.

Summary:

When developed with the insights of Council, staff and the public, a strategic plan represents a shared view of the municipality’s future, encourages public commitment and supports the ability for the municipality to move towards achieving the identified, mutual goals.

By, Susan Shannon, AMCT

CEO, muniSERV.ca

 

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Change takes time. The Future is approaching.

So, our first piece of advice is to start thinking about it now. And yes, you can ease into the future; it does not have to happen tomorrow.

When organizations are planning out their new, or enhanced physical security needs we are often asked what are the trends that are likely to shape physical security in the future?

The same question is usually followed up with… “If we do this, or if we buy this, will this sustain us in the future?”

Which also can be interpreted to… “So, we don’t have to buy something else, and that this will last us a long time, right?”

Good questions, but always a challenge to answer. Many factors play out as resistance or even catalysts to these questions and their subsequent decisions. Risk exposure, budgets, actual realized events, change in the organization’s focus, change in the organization’s leadership, campaign promises, or even change in some environments, regulation or legislation “forcing” a change, all impact the ‘future’ question.

What are those future trends shaping physical security? Some trends outlined in the list below may be a surprise, some may appear too futuristic.

  1. Increased use of biometric security measures: Biometric security measures, such as fingerprint scanners and facial recognition technology, are becoming more popular as they offer a high level of accuracy and are difficult to bypass.
  2. Rise of smart security systems: Smart security systems are becoming more common, and these systems often use artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning to analyze video footage and detect potential threats.
  3. Greater emphasis on cybersecurity: As more security systems become connected to the internet, cybersecurity is becoming an increasingly important consideration. Companies are investing in measures to protect against cyber-attacks that could compromise their security systems.
  4. Increased use of drones: Drones or Remotely Piloted Aircraft System(s) (RPAS) are being used more frequently for security purposes, such as patrolling large areas, inspecting high-risk locations or even in response to incidents in providing real-time surveillance.
  5. Greater use of virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) in training: VR and AR are being used to train security personnel in simulated environments, allowing them to practice their skills and respond to potential threats in a safe and controlled setting.
  6. Integration of physical and cybersecurity: As threats evolve and become more sophisticated, it is increasingly important for physical security and cybersecurity to work together to provide comprehensive protection. This integration may involve integrating cybersecurity measures into physical security systems, such as installing firewall protection on security cameras.

Biometrics, smart security systems, cybersecurity emphasis and the integration of physical and cybersecurity have been on our radar for several years now and have been introduced into our past and current projects with great adoption by our client base.

The trend not mentioned here but remains a constant for us, is the due diligence required to ensure the “paperwork” is complete, up to date, used and enforced. Your policies, and procedures, training programs, guidance documents and standards are the backbones for all these physical security tools to work in the manner they were intended for your organization.

Of course, great planning and the execution of that plan is essential. Planning is a cyclical process that can start, stop, and reset when required. The future is changing. Be prepared.

Plan the Work. Work the Plan.

Reach out. We can help.

Should your Municipality need assistance, contact Michael White Group International today, and we will be happy to answer your questions. Visit michaelwhitegroup.com/contact/

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Focusing your Business Continuity Management (BCM) (Continuity of Operations (COOP))

The arrival of Covid-19 two years ago posed a serious and more difficult threat to most enterprises’ existence. The importance of business continuity management (BCM) in reducing possible hazards, speeding recovery, and meeting customer expectations has become critical for every firm, regardless of size, business vertical, government, or private entity. BCM is a methodology for determining an organization’s risk of being exposed to both internal and external threats. The purpose of BCM is to give the organization the capacity to respond effectively to risks such as pandemics, natural disasters, and data breaches while also protecting the organization’s commercial interests. Disaster recovery, business recovery, crisis management, incident management, emergency management, and contingency planning are all included in BCM.

When done correctly, BCM may provide any organization a competitive advantage. This is especially true if a disruption affects an entire group segment and you are able to respond or recover faster than your competition, reducing consumer inconvenience. When it becomes evident that you excel at dealing with operational disturbances, your brand will gain trust and certainty, allowing you to position your organization as a preferred alternative for your clients and even bolstering confidence and increasing shareholder value. This is no different in being a trusted government entity, department, or agency.

Understanding continuity and preparedness requirements, establishing business continuity management policies and objectives, implementing and operating controls and measures for managing an organization’s overall continuity risks, and continual improvement based on objective measurements are all covered by one internationally recognized standard, that being ISO 22301. The standard highlights the need of meeting and exceeding customer expectations in order to secure business longevity and revenue development.

It is critical that the thought leadership and every level of the organization understand the importance of readiness and continuity.

The most crucial part of developing a BCM is clearly articulating stakeholder demands; consequently, consumers must receive special attention because they are critical to the organization’s success. Focusing on customer needs will also allow the BCM to be fit for its purpose and provide the organisation with a clear picture of process criticality. As a result, you can expect positive results if you design and implement the business continuity plan from a customer’s perspective to drive the business impact analysis. Understanding your customers’ demands is critical to determining where you add value to them, as it allows you to prioritise and determine how much downtime is tolerable in various areas before affecting your bottom line.

Be S.M.A.R.T. about creating strategies and objectives for business continuity management.

Doing this guarantees that objectives are defined and matched with customer-oriented criteria. Internal and external dependencies that may have the greatest impact on an organization’s consumers are identified when policies and objectives are developed. Customer objectives should attempt to surpass consumers’ expectations rather than merely satisfying their requirements. As a result, any organization should make sure to provide top-notch quality consumer objectives. The goal of this setup is to ensure client retention, brand image, and eventually revenue growth.

There exists the importance of putting in place operational controls and procedures to manage an organization’s overall continuity risks.

Following the identification of customer demands and the establishment of essential policies and objectives for the organization, the next stage will be to implement controls that address and mitigate the identified risks. Because risks and changes are unavoidable in the environment in which your organization operates, a systematic approach to putting in place controls to reduce hazards is required. Setting up disaster recovery sites, business continuity strategies, and business continuity procedures are examples of these controls. Lack of these will eventually cause an organization to fail, leaving clients with little choice but to shift to competitors who will provide better choices, or at minimum a choice.

It’s a cycle of continuous development and improvement.

Continuous improvement is a continuous, cyclical endeavour to enhance goods, services, or processes. Processes are assessed and adjusted on a regular basis based on their efficiency, effectiveness, and adaptability to changing consumer requirements and business circumstances. Organizations employ a variety of approaches to structure the process of recognising and acting on opportunities for improvement. Six Sigma, Kaizen, Lean, and the Toyota Production System are examples of prevalent approaches. Although these approaches differ, they all share a common foundation in the continuous improvement paradigm and principles.

Small tweaks, rather than significant paradigm leaps or new breakthroughs, lead to improvements. One percent improvement a month leads to a 12% improvement annually. Employee suggestions are quite helpful. When Employees take ownership and are involved in incremental changes, which are often affordable to execute, improvement occurs.

And finally…one more thought.

Customers are the lifeblood of every organization, and this is something that every organization understands, or should understand. As a result, their pleasure is critical to the organization’s success, which may be secured by providing exceptional customer service. Customer happiness, brand image, and revenue growth have all been shown to improve when BCM is implemented. BCM is critical in this age of unpredictability, and enterprises are encouraged to use it to provide corporate stability and sufficiency for ever-changing client demands.

The Michael White Group International is an approved PECB ISO Standard(s) training provider. It all starts with a conversation.

Plan the Work. Work the Plan.

Reach out. We can help.

Should your Municipality need assistance, contact Michael White Group International today, and we will be happy to answer your questions. Visit michaelwhitegroup.com/contact/

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Are you practicing SITUATION AWARENESS?

Situation Awareness is a skillset that should be practiced daily and is a valuable tool for staff.

Increasing situation awareness, through constant development and use increases security, protection of staff, protection of assets and overall resiliency of staff and the organization.

Training Situation Awareness benefits every department across the organization.

This training can take many forms. The focus however should always be the same. Elevate the staff member’s capability of being aware of their surroundings and the different influences, factors, items, and people that make up the environment they’re in. Situation Awareness is a mental image of what is happening all around you. Hearing, seeing, feeling for information and the various cues and clues that those influences, factors, items, and people are making in that environment and piecing them together so that they can have a good idea of what is happening and then using that information to predict what happens next.

There are many reasons why we need to be situationally aware.

  • Personal Safety & Security
  • Crime
  • Workplace Safety

 

Personal Safety & Security

Situation Awareness training can greatly improve an individual’s personal safety and security, regardless of if they’re at work, home or at play. Being aware of the environment you’re in reduces the risk of placing yourself in harms way or removing yourself from harms way. Being aware of the individual that wants to or is about to cause you harm or steal some of your personal belongings, unfortunately in some locals, environments and situations is much needed. Unfortunately for most, we traverse through many different environments on a daily basis that vary in degrees of safety.

 

Crime

Levels of crime or criminal activity vary geographically and from environment to environment. Unfortunately, criminal activity affects many of us, especially crimes against a person, theft, verbal abuse, physical abuse all the way to the far end of the spectrum of terrorist events. In efforts to be continuously aware, individuals should keep themselves abreast of local news and events and equally important when travelling, their destinations local news and events.

Workplace Safety & Security

It is everyone’s collective and individual responsibility to make and improve workplace safety and security. Law enforcement organizations, Crime Stoppers chapter always encourage us to “See something. Say something”. This very same message applies equally from our personal lives to our working environment. “That’s not my job” just doesn’t cut it anymore. Situation Awareness training assists organizations in bettering the safety, security and overall resiliency of their employees resulting in a more safe, secure and resilient organization.

 

Situational Awareness Training Delivery

There are options for organizations when seeking out Situation Awareness training.

  •          In Person
  •          Virtual Classroom

 

In Person Training

It has been said that In Person training is the best delivery method and most beneficial for the participants. It can create an environment of interactivity between the instructor, the participant and with the other participants also. Our delivery of this training will only take up to half a day.

 

Virtual Training

The recent and ongoing pandemic also allowed us to pivot the training and provide it in the virtual world in the varying platforms of virtual meeting spaces. Virtual training offers benefits also in that, we can bring together staff from geographically challenging locals where costs to bring them together is prohibitive making an even larger training group more feasible.

Benefits

The benefits of Situation Awareness training are many for al individuals. Increased personal safety and security, increased security culture in the workplace and increasing the individual’s knowledge of the environment around them. Whether it is a high or low risk environment, situation awareness belongs there.

The value of the training, the value of the results shouldn’t be overlooked or underestimated.


Should your Municipality need assistance, contact Michael White Group International today, and we will be happy to answer your questions. Visit michaelwhitegroup.com/contact/

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