Security Can Be An Enabler of Innovation

     Rob Tourt, chief risk management officer at Discover Card and a Payment Card Industry Security Standards Council (PCI SSC) chairperson recently told pymnts.com that “…innovation is happening and we want to make sure that it’s happening in a secure manner. But we also don’t want to gate innovation.”

     This quote speaks to a common misconception that security and innovation are two opposing forces when in fact they make perfect soul mates. A well-established security team can act as enablers to innovation and can help an organization turn out a more robust and secure business solution. As a rule, security experts are often required to be well versed in multiple technologies. When included at a project’s conception, these experts can utilize their experience and knowledge of multiple technologies to help project innovators discover solutions that previously might have been overlooked.

     The Security team can also ensure that the solution has a secure foundation from the beginning; rather than forcing an organization to go back and perform costly updates and enhancements. When security is “Baked In” to the solution as opposed to being “Bolted On” it can also improve the solution’s overall stability and functionality. This approach builds a stronger defense against possible cyber-attacks or insider threats.

 Symantec estimates that cyber-attacks and remediation efforts cost U.S. companies $250 billion in 2012, while McAfee estimates that over $1 trillion was spent globally in 2012. Utilizing the experts within your security department to help you implement your next project can help prevent your company from becoming a statistic.

    Some benefits of an innovative security program may include more secure and dynamic application coding, adaptive and efficient network design, and the prevention of costly lawsuits, remediation efforts, and loss of business due to a tarnished brand name.  So next time you’re ready to roll out that next great business solution, remember that your Security professionals can be an enabler of innovation for all your company’s projects.