Physical intrusion and detection alarms have changed and will continue to transform over the years as IP products evolve and provide more compelling reasons for decision-makers to innovate and leverage advanced solutions. These developments have also put pressure on security system integrators, whose roles are rapidly progressing.

IMS Research noted that the market for integrated security solutions, which combine tools like surveillance and intercom systems under a single umbrella, is forecast to expand at a compound annual growth rate of roughly 10 percent through 2016. As a result, physical alarm integrators will be forced to deal with innovative tools like network cameras and advanced IP monitoring applications.

"As more IT integrators have been entering this market they have been fundamentally changing the way security systems integrators do business," said Paul Bremner, an analyst at IMS Research. "IT integrators have brought their business model of lower equipment costs but higher service costs, and this has translated well when dealing with IP-based technology, which often requires a lot of network planning in the design stage to offer the best available solution."

Analysts said the global market for physical security systems and alarms is estimated to generate more than $38 billion in revenue by 2016.

Contributing to these profits will be a number of emerging technologies, including IP cameras and biometrics access control systems. As firms continue to look for the most effective methods for deterring crime and dangerous circumstances, decision-makers need to consider hiring a professional locksmith or system integrator that has knowledge of where the physical security market is headed and what tools will be important in the coming years. With IP-based products continuing to show forward progress, integrated offerings will likely be key to effective defensive strategies.