In this episode seasoned expert  in the physical security industry Baldvin Gislason Bern, discusses the critical transformation of cybersecurity regulations and compliance. The conversation delves into Baldwvin's journey from researcher to cybersecurity pioneer, highlighting the industry's pivotal shift towards cybersecurity – starting in 2014. Key topics include the impact of European regulations such as the NIS2 directive and the Cyber Resilience Act, which aim to address market vulnerabilities and enhance societal resilience against cyber threats. Baldwin emphasizes the importance of understanding the differences between frameworks, standards, and regulations, and their roles in safeguarding critical infrastructure.

The discussion also explores the significance of product security and adaptable regulations in the tech industry, focusing on standards like the UK’s Product Security and Telecommunications Infrastructure (PSTI) Act and HCE. Baldvin and Steve share insights from their experiences at Axis, underscoring the necessity for ongoing cybersecurity vigilance and proactive approaches beyond mere regulatory compliance. The episode provides valuable guidance for organizations navigating the complex landscape of cybersecurity legislation, stressing the importance of prioritizing security practices to build comprehensive cybersecurity strategies across various sectors.

About our guest:

Baldvin Gislason Bern is a distinguished figure in the cybersecurity and physical security industries, boasting over 25 years of extensive experience. Beginning his career as a researcher, Baldvin quickly transitioned into various senior engineering roles, significantly contributing to the field of cybersecurity. His career trajectory is marked by pivotal roles within organizations such as Axis Communications, where he played an instrumental part in shaping the company's approach to cybersecurity, particularly during the industry's transformative shift in 2014. Baldvin's expertise is not confined to the corporate world; he has also made significant contributions as a volunteer chairperson within the Open Network Video Interface Forum (ONVIF) and the International Association of Public Transport (UITP) Steering Group Committee on cybersecurity.

Connect with Baldvin on LinkedIn

Chapters:

(00:00) Cybersecurity Evolution in Physical Security

Explore Baldvin Gislason Bern's journey from researcher to industry pioneer, focusing on the shift towards cybersecurity in 2014.

(08:33) Impact of Cybersecurity Legislation

Discuss the evolution and impact of the NIS2 directive and GDPR, highlighting the challenges and preparations required by organizations.

(18:30) Adapting to Product Security Standards

Examine the UK’s PSTI Act and standards, emphasizing adaptable regulations for tech security.

(23:55) Ensuring Secure Tech Infrastructure

Delve into the importance of secure products and infrastructure, and the responsibilities placed on operators and manufacturers by new regulations.

Resources:

Learn more about Axis Communications’ role in Cybersecurity

Check out Axis’ Cybersecurity Tools and Resources

Read more about the GDPR

Explore the Product Security and Telecommunications Infrastructure (PSTI) Act

Visit the National Cyber Security Centre (UK)

Read the Axis Partner Briefings: The NIS 2 Directive

Read more about Cyber Resilience Act | Shaping Europe’s digital future

Meet your host Steve Kenny: Steve has spent 14 years in the security sector undertaking various roles that have seen him take responsibility for key elements of mission critical, high profile projects across a number of different vertical markets. For the last several years, Steve has focused his attention on how technologies can best complement day to day operations and specifically address operational issues by supporting the A&E consultant community across Northern Europe. Steve is a committee member for ASIS International focusing on Education for the security sector and the UK technology advisor for TINYg (Terrorist Information New York group).

Connect with Steve on LinkedIn

More about Axis Communications: Axis enables a smarter and safer world by creating solutions for improving security and business performance. As a network technology company and industry leader, Axis offers solutions in video surveillance, access control, intercom, and audio systems. They are enhanced by intelligent analytics applications and supported by high-quality training. Axis has around 4,000 dedicated employees in over 50 countries and collaborates with technology and system integration partners worldwide to deliver customer solutions. Axis was founded in 1984, and the headquarters are in Lund, Sweden.

Find out more about Axis Communications - Innovating for a smarter, safer world

https://www.axis.com/

Join us as Florian Matusek, Director of AI Strategy at Genetec, takes us on a journey into the evolving role of artificial intelligence in the security industry. Florian and Steve shed light on how AI has transitioned from its early days to today's sophisticated generative models. Emphasizing AI as a tool to augment human capabilities, rather than replace them, Florian advocates for terms like "machine intelligence" and "intelligent automation" to better reflect AI's practical applications. 

Steve and Florian address crucial topics such as responsible AI regulations and ethical data usage, drawing comparisons to frameworks like the EU AI Act and GDPR. They stress the importance of self-regulation and ethical standards in deploying AI technologies, especially in security applications. Listen as we review some valuable insights into AI's future in security, setting the stage for future episodes that will continue to explore the implications and advancements of this dynamic technology.

About our guest:

Florian Matsuek is an expert in artificial intelligence strategy, currently serving as the Director of AI Strategy at Genetec following the acquisition of his venture, Kiwi Security. With a rich background that began at Skype as a video expert, Florian has become a prominent figure in video analytics and AI, recognized for his contributions through an Amazon global bestseller, "Nowhere to Hide," along with numerous scientific publications and patents. As a sought-after public speaker, Florian has been featured in outlets such as Wired and the LA Times and hosts the podcast "Video Analytics 101." Holding a PhD in information processing science, his expertise is deeply rooted in media computer science and computer vision. Florian also plays a vital role as a member of the AI advisory board for the Security Industry Association (SEIA) in the US. Known for his engaging discussions on AI's role in augmenting human capabilities, Florian emphasizes the importance of ethical considerations and practical applications in technology.

Connect with Florian on LinkedIn

Chapters:

[0:00:05] Artificial Intelligence in Security Technology 

Our guest Florian Matsuek discusses the historical evolution of AI in the security industry, emphasizing the need to view AI as a tool that enhances human capabilities rather than replaces them, and advocates for terms like "machine intelligence" and "intelligent automation" to better describe AI's practical applications.

[0:08:11] Advancements in Video Analytics Technology 

This segment explores the practical integration of AI in video analytics, highlighting the importance of selecting the right technology for real-world applications and managing user expectations by focusing on outcomes rather than hype.

[0:19:21] Responsible AI Regulations and Transparency 

Florian underscores the importance of proactive self-regulation in the AI and data privacy sectors, drawing parallels to the EU AI Act and GDPR, and advocates for ethical standards in AI deployment to build trust and maintain human oversight.

[0:27:33] Navigating Risks and Opportunities With AI 

The conversation addresses the issue of hallucinations in large language models and emphasizes the importance of user education and careful implementation of AI to avoid risks, highlighting the transformative potential of generative AI in solving specific problems.

[0:33:36] The Future of AI in Security 

This chapter concludes with a forward-looking discussion on the evolving role of AI in various sectors, emphasizing its continued significance in technological advancements and future podcast episodes.

Resources:

Watch Florian’s podcast “Video Analytics 101”

Order a copy of Florian’s book Nowhere to Hide

See more information about Genetec AI

Read Genetec's "State of Physical Security Report"

Read the EU AI Act

Read the GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation)

Find out more about Security Industry Association (SIA) - Information. Insight. Influence.

Meet your host Steve Kenny: Steve has spent 14 years in the security sector undertaking various roles that have seen him take responsibility for key elements of mission critical, high profile projects across a number of different vertical markets. For the last several years, Steve has focused his attention on how technologies can best complement day to day operations and specifically address operational issues by supporting the A&E consultant community across Northern Europe. Steve is a committee member for ASIS International focusing on Education for the security sector and the UK technology advisor for TINYg (Terrorist Information New York group).

Connect with Steve on LinkedIn

More about Axis Communications: Axis enables a smarter and safer world by creating solutions for improving security and business performance. As a network technology company and industry leader, Axis offers solutions in video surveillance, access control, intercom, and audio systems. They are enhanced by intelligent analytics applications and supported by high-quality training. Axis has around 4,000 dedicated employees in over 50 countries and collaborates with technology and system integration partners worldwide to deliver customer solutions. Axis was founded in 1984, and the headquarters are in Lund, Sweden.

Find out more about Axis Communications - Innovating for a smarter, safer world

https://www.axis.com/

In this episode of "Security Tech Talk," cybersecurity expert Mike Gillespie delves into the intricate relationship between cybersecurity legislation and business practices. With over 35 years of experience, Mike provides a critical analysis of the gap between legislative intentions and their practical implementation in the business world. The episode explores key challenges such as the disconnect between lawmakers and businesses, the complexities of supply chain security, and the necessity for agile certification processes to keep pace with technological advancements. 

Steve and Mike discuss the pressing need for industries, particularly construction and infrastructure, to integrate cybersecurity considerations into their projects from the outset. Mike brings us his opinions on the potential of cybersecurity to transform networks into vital business assets rather than mere security tools and the importance of frameworks like the NIS2 directive and the Cyber Resilience Act in ensuring secure technologies and better data management. Through these insights, Steve and Mike encourage organizations to prioritize cybersecurity as a critical aspect of modern business operations.

About our guest:

Mike Gillespie is a seasoned security expert with over 35 years of experience. His career began in the British military, transitioning into a 25-year focus on cybersecurity. He is the founder of Advent IM and holds numerous leadership positions, including Director at the Security Institute and Vice President of the Center for Strategic Cyberspace and Security Science. Mike also led a steering group for the UK Surveillance Camera Commissioner, focusing on secure by design and secure by default certification. With his extensive background in both physical and electronic security, Mike is uniquely qualified to address today's cybersecurity challenges.

Connect with Mike on LinkedIn 

Chapters:

(00:06) Cybersecurity Challenges in Security Industry 

Mike Gillespie discusses the complexities of aligning cybersecurity legislation with practical business practices, emphasizing the need for informed legislation and the proactive involvement of businesses to go beyond minimal compliance efforts.

(12:55) Ensuring Security in Supply Chain 

This chapter delves into the intricacies of supply chain security in video surveillance systems, highlighting the challenges of adopting 'secure by default' standards and the critical role of transparency in preventing counterfeit components.

(21:10) Adapting to Evolving Security Standards 

Exploring the cybersecurity industry's struggle to keep up with rapid technological advancements, this chapter underscores the need for agile certification processes and the transformative potential of AI in enhancing cybersecurity practices.

(26:55) Importance of Cybersecurity in Industries 

The discussion reveals the alarming lack of cybersecurity considerations in construction and infrastructure projects, advocating for integrated cybersecurity strategies to enhance operational efficiency and data management across various sectors.

Resources:

Read more about Advent IM

More information on the NIS2 Directive

More information on the Cyber Resilience Act 

More information on the UNIS2 and UK's Product Security and Telecommunications Infrastructure Act

Read the European Union’s AI Act

Meet your host Steve Kenny: Steve has spent 14 years in the security sector undertaking various roles that have seen him take responsibility for key elements of mission critical, high profile projects across a number of different vertical markets. For the last several years, Steve has focused his attention on how technologies can best complement day to day operations and specifically address operational issues by supporting the A&E consultant community across Northern Europe. Steve is a committee member for ASIS International focusing on Education for the security sector and the UK technology advisor for TINYg (Terrorist Information New York group).

Connect with Steve on LinkedIn

More about Axis Communications: Axis enables a smarter and safer world by creating solutions for improving security and business performance. As a network technology company and industry leader, Axis offers solutions in video surveillance, access control, intercom, and audio systems. They are enhanced by intelligent analytics applications and supported by high-quality training. Axis has around 4,000 dedicated employees in over 50 countries and collaborates with technology and system integration partners worldwide to deliver customer solutions. Axis was founded in 1984, and the headquarters are in Lund, Sweden.

Find out more about Axis Communications - Innovating for a smarter, safer world

https://www.axis.com/

Tertius Woldaardt, a leading authority in architecture engineering and business development for Axis Communications, brings his profound insight into the security sector in the Middle East, a landscape ripe with opportunity and fraught with unique challenges. With nearly two decades of rich experience, Tertius helps us navigate through the transformative journey of the region's economies as they pivot away from oil dependency towards sectors like hospitality and tourism. Saudi Arabia’s ambitious projects and Dubai's remarkable evolution serve as prime examples of this shift. As we unpack the intricacies of the local regulations and standards that dictate security system design and implementation, the episode becomes a crucial guide for businesses aiming to thrive in the Middle East by understanding these critical nuances. Our conversation delves into the intricate dance between safety, technology, and regulatory compliance that defines cities like Dubai.

About our guest:

Tertius is the Architecture & Engineering Manager for Axis Communications in the Middle East & Africa. With over 15 years of rich experience in the security industry, Tertius has been an integral part of Axis Communications for nearly a decade, having held diverse roles across engineering, sales, and business development.

In his current role, Tertius is focused on managing and optimizing relationships with architects and engineering consultants throughout the region. His role is pivotal in ensuring effective collaboration and integration of Axis's security solutions into architectural and engineering projects, driving both innovation and excellence.

Tertius’s extensive background and deep industry knowledge make him a key asset in aligning Axis Communications' strategic goals with the needs of the architectural and engineering communities.

Connect with Tertius on LinkedIn

Chapters:

Security Standards in the Middle East (0:00:08)

Tertius discusses the substantial growth and unique regulatory challenges in the Middle Eastern security market, highlighting opportunities in sectors like hospitality and tourism.

Security Compliance Challenges in Global Markets (0:07:07)

Steve and Tertius explore the critical importance of aligning security system designs with local regulations to avoid operational and financial risks in cities like Dubai.

Security Regulations in the Middle East (0:23:30)

This segment focuses on the environmental challenges and specific regulatory requirements, including specialized testing and certification necessary to comply with GCC standards.

Resources:

Security Industry Regulatory Agency (SIRA)

Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC)

Meet your host Steve Kenny: Steve has spent 14 years in the security sector undertaking various roles that have seen him take responsibility for key elements of mission critical, high profile projects across a number of different vertical markets. For the last several years, Steve has focused his attention on how technologies can best complement day to day operations and specifically address operational issues by supporting the A&E consultant community across Northern Europe. Steve is a committee member for ASIS International focusing on Education for the security sector and the UK technology advisor for TINYg (Terrorist Information New York group).

Connect with Steve on LinkedIn

More about Axis Communications: Axis enables a smarter and safer world by creating solutions for improving security and business performance. As a network technology company and industry leader, Axis offers solutions in video surveillance, access control, intercom, and audio systems. They are enhanced by intelligent analytics applications and supported by high-quality training. Axis has around 4,000 dedicated employees in over 50 countries and collaborates with technology and system integration partners worldwide to deliver customer solutions. Axis was founded in 1984, and the headquarters are in Lund, Sweden.

Find out more about Axis Communications - Innovating for a smarter, safer world

https://www.axis.com/

In this episode we delve into the transformative journey of Smart Spaces, led by CEO and co-founder Dan Drogman. From its inception as a software consultancy in 2010, to its current status as a trailblazer in the PropTech industry – Smart Spaces has been at the forefront of integrating cutting-edge technologies to enhance modern office environments. Discover how Dan and his team have harnessed innovations like Apple's iBeacon and AI-driven security solutions to revolutionize access control, climate management, and visitor interactions, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Join us as we explore the challenges and breakthroughs in smart building integration over the past five years, and learn how companies have shifted their perspective from viewing smart technology as a risk to recognizing it as a crucial competitive advantage. Dan shares insights on the role of AI and open protocol systems in enhancing building security and the importance of collaboration with security consultants and stakeholders. And, listen in as Steve and Dan envision a future where frictionless access control and digital transformation drive energy efficiency and unparalleled customer satisfaction in smart building solutions.

About our guest:

Dan Drogman is a software development entrepreneur who first entered the market in 2004. He is a founding partner, owner and Managing Director at Smart Spaces; a London based PropTech, Software Development Consultancy ‘where design meets technology’ set up in 2010 and now employing 35+ .Net, C# web developers and UX/UI designers working across the office, retail, residential and industrial markets.

Source: https://www.smartspaces.app/about/

Connect with Dan on LinkedIn

Chapters:

(0:00:08) - Smart Building Solutions 

Dan Drogman, CEO of Smart Spaces, introduces the journey of his company from a software consultancy to a leader in the prop tech industry. The chapter delves into how Smart Spaces utilizes IoT and Apple's iBeacon technology to enhance access control and climate management, emphasizing the role of smartphones and the pandemic in increasing demand for smart building features.

(0:08:46) - Navigating Smart Building Integration Challenges 

This segment highlights the evolution of smart building integration over recent years, showcasing how companies have embraced open integration platforms to gain competitive advantages. It explores the transformation of traditional security tools into data-driven solutions, underscoring the challenges faced by firms resistant to adopting new technologies.

(0:11:58) - Optimizing Smart Building Integration Journey 

The focus here is on the inefficiencies in traditional building systems and how Smart Spaces has streamlined operations by consolidating multiple sensors. The chapter discusses the use of machine vision for occupancy data, emphasizing ethical advising and the importance of collaboration with security managers and stakeholders.

(0:19:44) - Enhancing Smart Building Security With AI 

This chapter explores the integration of open protocol systems and AI in smart building technology. It highlights the necessity of selecting adaptable vendors to future-proof buildings and discusses how AI aids in processing large datasets, improving both operational efficiency and product functionality.

(0:26:45) - Future Trends in Smart Building Security 

The episode concludes by addressing vulnerabilities in retrofit projects and the importance of network security. It envisions the future of smart building technology, driven by digital transformation, energy efficiency, and frictionless access control systems like ultra-wideband, enhancing both security and user convenience.

Resources:

Read more about Smart Spaces

See how Axis is shaping smarter, safer and more sustainable cities 

Read our “Secure Insights: Cities” blog

Meet your host Steve Kenny: Steve has spent 14 years in the security sector undertaking various roles that have seen him take responsibility for key elements of mission critical, high profile projects across a number of different vertical markets. For the last several years, Steve has focused his attention on how technologies can best complement day to day operations and specifically address operational issues by supporting the A&E consultant community across Northern Europe. Steve is a committee member for ASIS International focusing on Education for the security sector and the UK technology advisor for TINYg (Terrorist Information New York group).

Connect with Steve on LinkedIn

More about Axis Communications: Axis enables a smarter and safer world by creating solutions for improving security and business performance. As a network technology company and industry leader, Axis offers solutions in video surveillance, access control, intercom, and audio systems. They are enhanced by intelligent analytics applications and supported by high-quality training. Axis has around 4,000 dedicated employees in over 50 countries and collaborates with technology and system integration partners worldwide to deliver customer solutions. Axis was founded in 1984, and the headquarters are in Lund, Sweden.

Find out more about Axis Communications - Innovating for a smarter, safer world

https://www.axis.com/

Veteran security industry expert Jamie Donald from Axis Communications shares his wisdom on the fast-evolving landscape of security technology. With nearly three decades of industry experience, Jamie takes us through the journey from a fragmented market to a more unified, consolidated one. We delve into the strategic importance of open ecosystems and the necessity of technology partnerships, particularly in video management systems and analytics, to enhance both security measures and operational efficiency. Jamie also provides insight into the challenges and opportunities that come with market consolidation and why adopting an IT mindset is crucial to effectively navigate these changes.

While AI has often been overstated, Jamie and Steve discuss its potential for innovation when companies collaborate meaningfully. The discussion touches on the complexities faced by small developers in choosing between edge, server, or cloud solutions, and how collective investments can greatly enhance the value of technological solutions.

About our guest:

Working in the Global Sales Solutions team at Axis Communications, Jamie is responsible for managing and optimizing relationships with strategic alliance ecosystem partners, to deliver joint solutions for the enterprise business customers. Prior to joining Axis, Jamie worked in the security industry for 17 years, holding a range of sales and commercial roles. This included 2 years Business Development in Saudi Arabia.

Connect with Jamie on LinkedIn

Chapters:

The Future of Security Technology Partnerships (00:00)

Jamie and Steve discuss the industry's shift from fragmentation to consolidation and emphasizes the importance of open ecosystems and partnerships in video management and analytics for enhancing security and operational efficiency.

Exploring Technology Partnerships and Innovations (10:30)

This section highlights the potential of AI when integrated through technology partnerships, the challenges faced by small developers, and the role of collective investments in driving innovation in smart cities and buildings.

Navigating Technology Partnerships and Innovation (21:15) 

Jamie and Steve explore the importance of identifying specific use cases for scalable solutions, address cybersecurity concerns with open systems and the implications of market consolidation on technology partnerships.

Value of Technology Partnerships for Security (32:45)

The episode concludes by emphasizing the benefits of collaborating with technology partners to drive innovation and efficiency, ultimately enhancing value for customers and operators of complex systems.

Resources:

More information on Axis’ Technology Integration Partner Program

Meet your host Steve Kenny: Steve has spent 14 years in the security sector undertaking various roles that have seen him take responsibility for key elements of mission critical, high profile projects across a number of different vertical markets. For the last several years, Steve has focused his attention on how technologies can best complement day to day operations and specifically address operational issues by supporting the A&E consultant community across Northern Europe. Steve is a committee member for ASIS International focusing on Education for the security sector and the UK technology advisor for TINYg (Terrorist Information New York group).

Connect with Steve on LinkedIn

More about Axis Communications: Axis enables a smarter and safer world by creating solutions for improving security and business performance. As a network technology company and industry leader, Axis offers solutions in video surveillance, access control, intercom, and audio systems. They are enhanced by intelligent analytics applications and supported by high-quality training. Axis has around 4,000 dedicated employees in over 50 countries and collaborates with technology and system integration partners worldwide to deliver customer solutions. Axis was founded in 1984, and the headquarters are in Lund, Sweden.

Find out more about Axis Communications - Innovating for a smarter, safer world.

https://www.axis.com/

In this episode we are joined by Corin Dennison, an expert with extensive experience in law enforcement and retail security. Together, we delve into the pressing challenges facing the retail industry, including the rise of retail-specific violence and the economic implications of crime. Despite widespread security measures, criminals remain undeterred, leading to tough decisions about store location viability and financial transparency. We explore innovative strategies to balance safety and sales, as well as the importance of accurate crime recording and the role of technology in building offender profiles.

The conversation extends to the digital realm, highlighting the surge of returns fraud in e-commerce, exacerbated by social media platforms. We discuss the necessity of robust data sharing and advanced technological defenses to counteract these threats. Additionally, the episode addresses the controversial use of facial recognition technology, weighing its potential benefits against privacy concerns.

About our guest:

At the helm of Insight Retail Risk Consultancy as Managing Partner, Corin Dennison’s focus is on delivering top-tier guidance, expertise and services to clients. Leveraging a distinguished career in corporate security and retail risk management, he specialises in crafting robust risk protection and mitigation models for retail brands / solution providers and implementing advanced technical solutions. The strategies developed under his direction have been instrumental in safeguarding assets and mitigating significant P&L losses for global companies.

Previously within risk leadership roles with brands such as Burberry & adidas, Corin cultivated a comprehensive security approach spanning six regions. His expertise in corporate investigations, IP protection, and consumer risk was pivotal in establishing global compliance frameworks. Within these organization, Corin’s efforts consistently optimized operations, bolstered brand integrity, and contributed to sustainable business growth through strategic risk management.

Connect with Corin on LinkedIn

Chapters:

Retail Challenges and Security Solutions (0:00:07): We delve into the increasing challenges of retail-specific violence and its global impact, with Corin Dennison providing insights on maintaining a balance between consumer, employee, and product safety amidst the core goal of selling goods. The discussion highlights the perceived indifference of criminals towards existing security measures and the financial strain on retailers as they face decisions about store location viability.

Retail Crime Prevention Strategies (0:09:50): The conversation explores the complexities of addressing retail crime, emphasizing the need for accurate crime recording and the impact of policing thresholds on reporting thefts. The chapter discusses strategies for balancing crime prevention with economic realities and the importance of better solutions to deter crime and protect retail assets.

E-Commerce Returns Fraud and Solutions (0:22:26): We examine the rise of returns fraud in e-commerce, driven by organized crime exploiting online platforms and social media. The need for robust data sharing and technology-enhanced defenses is emphasized, alongside discussions on using facial recognition technology while balancing privacy concerns.

Retail Risk Mitigation Strategies (0:28:48): We address the use of facial recognition technology in retail, highlighting the need for proportionality, data accuracy, and compliance with privacy laws. It emphasizes collaboration with technology vendors to enhance protective measures and underscores the importance of adapting to the evolving risk landscape in retail security.

Resources:

Corin’s company Insight Retail Risk Consultancy

Association of Convenience Stores’ 2024 Crime Report

More Info on the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)

Meet your host Steve Kenny: Steve has spent 14 years in the security sector undertaking various roles that have seen him take responsibility for key elements of mission critical, high profile projects across a number of different vertical markets. For the last several years, Steve has focused his attention on how technologies can best complement day to day operations and specifically address operational issues by supporting the A&E consultant community across Northern Europe. Steve is a committee member for ASIS International focusing on Education for the security sector and the UK technology advisor for TINYg (Terrorist Information New York group).

Connect with Steve on LinkedIn

More about Axis Communications: Axis enables a smarter and safer world by creating solutions for improving security and business performance. As a network technology company and industry leader, Axis offers solutions in video surveillance, access control, intercom, and audio systems. They are enhanced by intelligent analytics applications and supported by high-quality training. Axis has around 4,000 dedicated employees in over 50 countries and collaborates with technology and system integration partners worldwide to deliver customer solutions. Axis was founded in 1984, and the headquarters are in Lund, Sweden.

Find out more about Axis Communications - Innovating for a smarter, safer world.

https://www.axis.com/

What if the cities of tomorrow could offer more than just a promise of technological advancement, but a tangible improvement in the quality of urban life? Steve welcomes Andrea Sorri to share insights on how smart cities are evolving, with lessons drawn from the established frameworks of European metropolises and new opportunities in the Middle East. They discuss the dynamic interplay between traditional infrastructure and cutting-edge innovation, and how each city, regardless of its stage of maturity, can harness technology to enhance urban mobility, safety, and citizen engagement. Learn how cities are integrating existing resources, such as video surveillance systems, for dual-use purposes, maximizing their potential for public safety and environmental monitoring.

Amidst the promise of smart cities, challenges such as scaling designs and ensuring cybersecurity are ever-present. Andrea highlights the importance of leveraging local resources and fostering innovation through City Labs and technology enablers in rapidly developing regions. Hear about the groundbreaking technologies being installed in places like Saudi Arabia, and why no single city can be hailed as the perfect model. 

About our guest:

With over 25 years of experience, Andrea Sorri is Segment Development Manager Smart Cities EMEA at Axis Communications. Andrea Sorri helps put Smart City solutions into practice at Axis Communications, where he is responsible for key markets. He has globally created and implemented efficient strategies for cities and critical infrastructure. His daily commitments include introducing technology that brings effective benefits to communities, particularly in the public safety, mobility and environmental monitoring areas, with a strong focus on enabling cities to reach their sustainable development goals (SDGs).

Connect with Andrea on LinkedIn

Chapters:

(00:05) Evolution and Challenges of Smart Cities: Smart cities vary in maturity and face challenges in upgrading infrastructure, but offer benefits like improved mobility and safety through citizen engagement and alignment with SDGs.

(10:09) Fostering Collaboration in Smart Cities: Trust, transparency, and ethical AI are crucial in smart cities, with collaboration, dual-purpose infrastructure, and ecosystem-driven approaches being key.

(18:23) Overcoming Challenges for Smart Cities: Smart city scaling in the Middle East faces challenges like cybersecurity, but can benefit from local resources and city labs.

(27:28) Rethinking Smart City Innovation: Smart cities require pragmatic, adoptable, and replicable technology, with potential for collaboration between technology companies and government entities.

Resources:

See more about the Smart City Expo World Congress

Read about the European Artificial Intelligence (AI) Act

Read Andrea’s blog post about using people counting tech to improve transport in cities

See how Axis is shaping smarter, safer and more sustainable cities 

Read our “Secure Insights: Cities” blog

Meet your host Steve Kenny: Steve has spent 14 years in the security sector undertaking various roles that have seen him take responsibility for key elements of mission critical, high profile projects across a number of different vertical markets. For the last several years, Steve has focused his attention on how technologies can best complement day to day operations and specifically address operational issues by supporting the A&E consultant community across Northern Europe. Steve is a committee member for ASIS International focusing on Education for the security sector and the UK technology advisor for TINYg (Terrorist Information New York group).

Connect with Steve on LinkedIn

More about Axis Communications: Axis enables a smarter and safer world by creating solutions for improving security and business performance. As a network technology company and industry leader, Axis offers solutions in video surveillance, access control, intercom, and audio systems. They are enhanced by intelligent analytics applications and supported by high-quality training. Axis has around 4,000 dedicated employees in over 50 countries and collaborates with technology and system integration partners worldwide to deliver customer solutions. Axis was founded in 1984, and the headquarters are in Lund, Sweden.

Find out more about Axis Communications - Innovating for a smarter, safer world. https://www.axis.com/

Welcome to Security Tech Talk, the podcast where we redefine the future of security. Hosted by Steve Kenny, an industry leader from Axis Communications, this show is your gateway to cutting-edge security technology and innovative strategies. Whether you're in physical or cyber security, this podcast is designed to inspire and inform.

Join us as we explore the evolving landscape of security systems, dive into topics like artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, smart buildings, smart cities, security industry regulations and more. Each episode brings you thought-provoking discussions with industry disruptors and innovators who challenge the status quo. From smart city ecosystems to the unique challenges faced by retailers balancing security and sales, we cover it all.

Expect engaging dialogues, fresh perspectives, and expert insights into the trends shaping the security sector today and tomorrow. Don't miss out on your chance to stay ahead in the security industry—subscribe now on Spotify, Amazon, and Apple Podcasts. Your journey to mastering the security landscape starts here with Security Tech Talk!

Meet your host Steve Kenny: Steve has spent 14 years in the security sector undertaking various roles that have seen him take responsibility for key elements of mission critical, high profile projects across a number of different vertical markets. For the last several years, Steve has focused his attention on how technologies can best complement day to day operations and specifically address operational issues by supporting the A&E consultant community across Northern Europe. Steve is a committee member for ASIS International focusing on Education for the security sector and the UK technology advisor for TINYg (Terrorist Information New York group).

Connect with Steve on LinkedIn

More about Axis Communications: Axis enables a smarter and safer world by creating solutions for improving security and business performance. As a network technology company and industry leader, Axis offers solutions in video surveillance, access control, intercom, and audio systems. They are enhanced by intelligent analytics applications and supported by high-quality training. Axis has around 4,000 dedicated employees in over 50 countries and collaborates with technology and system integration partners worldwide to deliver customer solutions. Axis was founded in 1984, and the headquarters are in Lund, Sweden. Click here for more information on Axis Communications.