Proprietary Versus Contract Security Paper

Proprietary versus Contract Security Paper

Security has been and will always be of vital importance to businesses of all types. Whether proprietary or contract security is used it is up to the establishment, but decisions based on needs are always financially strained. Gone is the time when a neighborhood watch successfully kept things peaceful. In this day and age cameras, scanners, detectors, and physical security guards are needed for protection against theft, destruction of property, and physical harm.

The assignment is to discuss the pros and cons about hiring proprietary or contract security for a medium sized company that manufactures high tech components for an international automobile manufacturer, what roles the security personnel will play, any issues that may arise, and an overall recommendation. Security goals and needs will also be addressed in this paper.

Proprietary security is an "in house" service. This type of security is normally hired by more than one individual and requires different certifications. Many times however, proprietary security is compared to mall security. The image going through your mind right now is an overweight man or woman that could not complete a physical fitness test if they trained for a few weeks. We have all stereotyped these individuals and it is understandable because many businesses have the "warm body" theory. This theory basically amounts to having someone out there for the public to see, so that they are given a sense of security. This theory can come back to haunt businesses at times because people still commit crimes and get away with it even though the security officer was on duty.

Contract security is a firm or group of individuals from outside that provide security. Many contract security firms or groups consist of off duty cops, retired cops, marines, etc... Contracts are drawn up between the firm and business so that an agreement can be met as to what type of security services the firm will be handling. Contracts can sometimes make or break a deal when it comes to hiring proprietary versus contract security.

There are many advantages and disadvantages to proprietary and contract security. One of the main advantages I feel is by hiring from outside the company is the cut in cost. Transferring liability is another major advantage. However, that can back fire because if the contracted company is sued, the lawsuit can include the company or business that contracted them and therefore cause legal ramifications. Proprietary security can be a financial burden for a company or business, but in the long run can also prove to be valuable. Many of the trainings or certifications needed to become an in house security officer are offered state wide and can be easily obtained. This allows for faster training completion and some training sessions can be done on the job if a security manager obtains the right credentials.