The Value of Private Security
The Value of Private Security Management to Businesses
James P. Hogg
University of Phoenix (Online Campus)
Introduction to Organizational Security and Management
SEC-310
David D. Cornely, DM
November 5, 2006
Abstract
The value private security management brings to businesses is not limited to the
intangible feeling of safety and security in the workplace. While this is certainly an
important aspect that may lead to increased employee performance by reducing
unsafe conditions, the value of private security management can also be measured in
dollar signs. Through the use of the return on security investment formula (Barr, 2004),
business managers can understand the implications an effective security program has on
profits. This paper will explore both the tangible and intangible value of private security
management to businesses.
The events of September 11, 2001 (9/11) brought attention to the seriousness of the
threat Americans face and the consequences of inadequate security measures. As the
human toll was being calculated, one can imagine that affected businesses were also
calculating the loss of personnel, revenue and other assets. Then followed the bio-
terrorism scares with anthrax or in some cases, suspected anthrax being sent in postal
packages to various businesses and political offices. The ensuing hysteria created, once
again, a loss of personnel (some through illness, but most from fear of exposure) and a
loss of revenue. While these events had a significant impact on bringing security into the
spotlight and increased the importance of security management in the eyes of private
citizens, many businesses recognized the terrorist attacks as a "perceived risk" (Barr,
2003). This was, in large part, a result of the risk management guidance provided by
private security professionals. By avoiding excessive expenditures as a "knee-jerk"
reaction to an
James P. Hogg
University of Phoenix (Online Campus)
Introduction to Organizational Security and Management
SEC-310
David D. Cornely, DM
November 5, 2006
Abstract
The value private security management brings to businesses is not limited to the
intangible feeling of safety and security in the workplace. While this is certainly an
important aspect that may lead to increased employee performance by reducing
unsafe conditions, the value of private security management can also be measured in
dollar signs. Through the use of the return on security investment formula (Barr, 2004),
business managers can understand the implications an effective security program has on
profits. This paper will explore both the tangible and intangible value of private security
management to businesses.
The events of September 11, 2001 (9/11) brought attention to the seriousness of the
threat Americans face and the consequences of inadequate security measures. As the
human toll was being calculated, one can imagine that affected businesses were also
calculating the loss of personnel, revenue and other assets. Then followed the bio-
terrorism scares with anthrax or in some cases, suspected anthrax being sent in postal
packages to various businesses and political offices. The ensuing hysteria created, once
again, a loss of personnel (some through illness, but most from fear of exposure) and a
loss of revenue. While these events had a significant impact on bringing security into the
spotlight and increased the importance of security management in the eyes of private
citizens, many businesses recognized the terrorist attacks as a "perceived risk" (Barr,
2003). This was, in large part, a result of the risk management guidance provided by
private security professionals. By avoiding excessive expenditures as a "knee-jerk"
reaction to an
References: Barr, James G. (2003). Managing Real Risks. Faulkner Information Services. Retrieved November 5, 2006 from University of Phoenix, rEsource, SEC310, Week 1 Barr, James G. (2004). Seven Strategies for Becoming a Security Leader. Faulkner Information Services Barr, James G. (2004). Business Continuity: Business in Denial.. Faulkner Information Services