ASIS Security Systems Certificate Examined

ASIS is pursuing a new certificate for Integrated Physical Security Systems. This is still under development but the broad outlines and the goals of the program are becoming defined.

The certificate, as currently designed, consists of 5 main sections:

• Project Management
• Physical Security
• Network Fundamentals
• Network Security
• Operations and Maintenance

The plan is that the certificate would complement existing ASIS certifications such as the CPP and PSP.

During the conference call with 280 participants, a few polls were asked. 

• End users - 54%
• Security contractors - 18&
• Consultants 23%

Would you be more likely to pursue this certificate prior to or instead of other certificate or certification programs?

• Yes 22%
• No 78%

Analysis

As designed the material covered on this certificate is extremely broad. Each of the first 4 sections have their own full-length dedicated certifications by other organizations (e.g., PMP, PSP, Network+/CCNA, Security+/CISSP).

It is practically impossible for the ASIS certificate to match the depth of even the basic widely accepted certifications. The ASIS certificate is likely to provide only a shallow, introductory understanding of each area.

This may be satisfactory for security managers who need just the basics but it is unlikely to do much for integrators, consultants and manufacturers who generally require much greater depth.

While this program may have promise for security managers, other industry professionals should more strongly consider the greater depth of passing the PSP plus various networking certifications.

Update

As of 2012, no certification like this has been released.