We continue our series of 2025 reflections by security industry heavyweights with a contribution from longtime Business Fitness columnist and Matterhorn Consulting founder and principal Paul Boucherle.
We’ll share Boucherle’s 2026 predictions for the security industry in January.
Security Sales & Integration: What kind of year has 2025 been for the electronic security and physical security industries?
Paul Boucherle: 2025 has been a positive year overall for the security business. The uncertainty of supply chains started with gnashing of teeth, hand-wringing, fear and uncertainty with tariffs. I felt this was short-sighted but a necessary correction in more equitable global trade terms. Most importantly, I think end users understood the project completion and price adjustments/variables were out of security integrators’ hands.
SSI: What has been the most surprising development in the security industry this year?
Boucherle: The most surprising was the over-hype of technology, specifically artificial intelligence. Every product today makes some AI claim. AI is now the Taylor Swift of the security industry with all the flash and promotion but without her enviable and reliable track record! AI will and does have a role for improving/optimizing labor intensive, repetitive tasks that can be automated without the burden of custom software.
SSI: What has been the most important change we’ve seen this year in security?
Boucherle: The most important change in the security industry is that change happens fast with unpredictable business results. Two edges to this business sword are fear and opportunity. Depending on your mindset, you can grow, stand still or fall behind. If you stand still too long or fall behind, you will lose talent that will be hard to replace.
