IoT, cloud, security and the IT professional: Transforming traditional roles

Incorporating physical security

Though once seen as a siloed department within the enterprise, the IT team has now become a crucial component and resource when it comes to the implementation of physical security infrastructure. With the latest technology developments in this market, including networked devices and remote monitoring, they can also bring complex technical challenges that can be mitigated with the help of IT specialists. As such, the role of the IT pro must include a working knowledge of security best practices and how technology is used to protect people and assets.

IoT

IT comes into consideration when you think about the various devices and sensors that must be integrated through an organization’s single, unified platform. A wide array of knowledge is required of today’s IT professionals as they work to achieve this in a secure fashion. The role of IT has shifted to where this level of collaboration now focuses more on data integration, with the goal of extracting the most relevant information for intelligent decision-making. IT teams help identify the right methods for achieving this convergence in an efficient and cost-effective manner.

Security and cybersecurity

Because today’s networked services are about more than just physical devices, they’ve become susceptible to cybervulnerabilities that can be best understood by the IT team. From the beginning to the end of implementation, IT personnel are tasked with identifying any holes or gaps that may leave a system open to vulnerabilities. IT leaders must ensure that the proper techniques are followed when it comes to strengthening cybersecurity, such as updating passwords, encrypting data to the cloud, automatically installing software patches and more.

Increased communication

Collaborating across departments requires a new level of communication for organizations, indicating a transformation in the requirement of certain soft skills. More specifically, communication skills are paramount to anyone in IT, as these individuals are required to not only work across many teams and groups, but also outside departments and contacts to integrate systems across an organization. Collaboration between physical security and IT, alongside additional outside contractors, requires strong leadership and communication skills.

Cloud computing

The introduction of the cloud into today’s modern organization has encouraged IT professionals to evolve their knowledge and skill set to incorporate cloud-based functionality. IT professionals benefit from cloud-based services, as they reduce overhead costs, as well as physical hardware they would otherwise have to maintain — this minimizes their security footprint. The IT department must be well-versed in the efficient implementation and use of cloud-based technologies to ensure an organization’s survival with respect to ever-reducing margins.

The inherent value of an IT team is that these professionals are well-versed in the ins and outs of their companies’ current computer and technology setup. The changing nature of their role within an organization requires them to understand emerging technology and tailor it to their duties and goals while remaining up to date in the latest innovations. As these advancements change the needs of organizations, so too should the knowledge base that IT professionals possess and implement across departments.

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