Key Takeaways
- Technology and industry needs are rapidly evolving - reshaping how we approach security.
- Hearing directly from security professionals is key to understanding where we’re headed next.
- Security research gives us the early insights we need to stay ahead of emerging risks.
- These findings drive innovation - helping us create solutions that address actual, day-to-day challenges.
The security industry is at a pivotal moment, with many transformative changes reshaping the way organizations approach security systems. As new technologies emerge, organizations must navigate evolving challenges and opportunities.
At Gallagher, we recognize that understanding these shifts requires more than just observing trends - it requires listening to the voices of security professionals, End Users, and experts across the industry. Research is at the heart of making informed, data-driven decisions. Whether it’s understanding the increasing role of IT, the growing demand for ease of use in security systems, or the integration of AI into everyday operations, security research helps us navigate these complexities.
But we know that no one has a clearer view of the industry's evolution than the people working within it. Your experiences and insights provide the clarity needed to shape the future of security.
The Role of Security Research in Navigating Industry Changes
- Anticipating and mitigating challenges: By identifying emerging risks and patterns early, security research empowers organizations to proactively prepare for change rather than react to disruption. This foresight helps minimize threats, reduce downtime, and strengthen business continuity.
- Informing product development: Insight-driven innovation ensures that new technologies and systems are designed to address real-world pain points. Security research helps align product design with user needs, accelerating adoption and long-term value.
- Contributing to the global security community: Shared knowledge benefits everyone. Research findings help elevate industry standards, foster collaboration, and support a more unified, resilient security ecosystem across borders and sectors.
Key Security Trends Shaping 2025
Organizations are placing an increasing emphasis on operational efficiency, data-driven decision-making, and robust cybersecurity, creating shifts and waves within the industry. The 2025 Security Industry Trends Report highlighted some of the key changes taking place:
IT and Cloud Integration
As more organizations adopt cloud-based solutions and enhance their IT infrastructures, the role of IT departments in security decision-making continues to grow. This shift impacts everything from system selection to security protocols.
AI and Cybersecurity
The integration of AI in security systems is increasing, with many organizations looking to AI tools for advanced threat detection and operational efficiency. However, concerns around data privacy, performance, and implementation challenges remain a barrier to widespread adoption.
Mobile Credentials and Digital Transformation
The push for mobile credentials and digital IDs is gaining momentum globally. Yet, the adoption of these technologies within the security industry remains a work in progress. Misconceptions, IT challenges, and cost concerns continue to slow the pace of change.
Sustainability and Operational Efficiency
Organizations are increasingly leveraging security systems to drive operational efficiencies and sustainability initiatives. With growing pressure to reduce costs and improve performance, security solutions are being recognized for their broader business value.
These themes from last year’s Security Industry Trends Report reveal an industry in transition, one that’s grappling with the adoption of new technologies and the challenges of integrating them into existing systems. However, these are not just trends we’re observing - they’re issues that are deeply felt by those working on the ground, making research and collaboration essential for identifying solutions.
How Security Research Drives Industry Progress
Understanding the challenges and priorities of security professionals, End Users, and technology partners is essential for developing solutions that meet the needs of today and tomorrow. Security research enables organizations to move beyond assumptions and gain a clearer understanding of how different sectors of the industry are responding to technological advancements, budget constraints, and evolving security threats.
Security research can uncover insights into:
- The most pressing security priorities across different industries
- The challenges organizations face with technology adoption and integration
- The role of education and training in overcoming barriers to new system deployments
- How organizations are making decisions about cybersecurity, AI, and mobile credentials
- Behavioral insights into how End Users’ staff interact with security solutions
These insights are crucial for guiding the development of more effective, user-friendly security systems and ensuring that they are aligned with the needs of the market.
Your Insights Matter: Participate in the 2026 Security Industry Trends Survey
As the security industry faces these challenges, it’s more important than ever for professionals to share their insights. That’s why we’re inviting you to participate in the 2026 Security Industry Trends Survey. The feedback we receive will help build a clearer picture of the industry’s momentum and provide valuable insights into the current state and future direction of the industry.
By participating in the survey, you’ll help ensure that the next generation of security solutions addresses the real-world challenges faced by organizations today. Your responses will contribute to a broader understanding of how trends like AI adoption, cybersecurity, and operational efficiency are influencing security decisions.
Take the Survey Now and Help Shape the Future of the Security Industry
Security research is the key to unlocking better solutions, and together, we can ensure that the next chapter in security is written with informed, data-driven decisions at its core.