When I sat down in 2007 to write the first edition of Integrated Security Systems Design, part of the driving force was that I was finding integrated security system IP networks were, for the most part, unsecured. Tragically, eight years later, that situation has not changed very much. Think about that … Read more
Timing is everything. Yes, it is so cliché to say such a thing. However, the ability to control every detail of timing – particularly in the world of international supply chain logistics – truly defines the difference between success and failure. As Woody Allen famously said, “Ninety percent of life … Read more
Charles “CHUCK” Andrews, CPP recently attended the ASIS 14th European Security Conference & Exhibition in Frankfurt, Germany. The event brought security professionals from around the globe to learn industry best practices, see the latest technologies, and network with their peers. According to Butchko, Inc.’s Chief Security Officer and ASIS International … Read more
Today’s sea lanes are more crowded than they have ever been, chock-a-block with bigger [fatter] tankers, heavier loads, and more containers jammed to the hilt with manufactured goods from China, Indonesia, the U.S., Latin America, and elsewhere. In the meantime, the world is becoming an increasingly dangerous place. The lifeblood … Read more
The recent Forbes article ‘4 riesgos para las empresas en la reforma energética’ (4 Risks for Companies in the Energy Reform), highlights underlying business challenges for international companies considering participation in the Mexico oil market. Regulatory and legal framework Opposition to public reform Lack of infrastructure and local talent Security … Read more
Many companies incorporate a ‘values’ statement in their corporate messaging. Fewer companies, however, look for values alignment in their supply chain and partnerships. This is a story of three companies that sought this alignment and how this created a force multiplier in their market positions and corporate results. The story … Read more
When it comes to the next terrorist attack, you can bet on one thing: It probably will not happen at the Mall of the Americas, London’s Oxford Street or Canada’s West Edmonton shopping complex. These venues are on high security alert after this weekend’s threat issued by the Al-Qaida affiliated … Read more
To paraphrase Mark Twain’s wry remark, “reports of the demise of the oil & gas industry have been greatly exaggerated.” Sure, crude prices have dropped to around $50 a barrel and gas is sitting at only $2.50, but if activity in Houston is any indication, the industry is gearing up … Read more
As the Affordable Care Act ripens, healthcare organizations must transform to survive. Hospitals and clinics will treat more Medicare patients and will be rewarded more for the quality of care than for the volume of patients they treat. While this is an improvement in patient care, the shift in healthcare … Read more
Benjamin M. Butchko will be part of two panels at the upcoming 2015 TechSec Solutions Conference. TechSec brings together manufacturers, suppliers, installers, consultants, and end-users in an interactive discussion to review trends in the industry and share insights from their different perspectives. It is a dynamic gathering of industry thought … Read more