As security risks and business needs evolve, no two organizations require the same approach to protection. Flexible guarding models enable companies to adjust coverage levels, integrate technology, and tailor security to their specific risks and budgets. This blog examines the operation of flexible guarding, what clients can expect from a provider, and how Securitas USA assists in delivering adaptable security solutions that scale to meet evolving demands.
Why flexibility matters now
In today’s rapidly evolving security landscape, rigidity can quickly become a liability. Seasonal spikes, extended hours, special events, or sudden risks can expose vulnerabilities when programs can’t adapt.
“Flexibility is critical today because risks and operations change faster than ever,” says Zarna. “Businesses might face higher traffic during certain seasons, extended hours during special projects, or new risks as they expand into different locations. A rigid security model doesn’t account for those shifts, which can leave gaps or drive up unnecessary costs.”
When security programs are too rigid, clients often pay for services they don’t always need or find themselves unprotected. “Rigid contracts can’t adapt to changes in operating hours, seasonal spikes, or unexpected events, so the program either wastes resources or leaves gaps,” Zarna adds. “It also creates frustration for managers, who need flexibility to adjust quickly without renegotiating every time circumstances shift.”
What flexible guarding looks like
A flexible guarding model is not a one-size-fits-all solution. It’s a program designed to scale up or down, shift resources across on-site officers, mobile patrols, and remote guarding. It's also about adapting quickly to new risks or changing budgets.
“In practice, that means being able to scale coverage up or down, shift between on-site officers, mobile patrols, and remote guarding, and adjust schedules as risks or budgets change,” explains Zarna. “It also includes on-demand solutions. Temporary coverage that can be added quickly when a client needs extra support.”
Flexibility takes different approaches depending on the industry. Retailers might need more officers during the holiday season; manufacturers may scale coverage around large shipments or shutdowns, and corporate offices might bring in temporary officers for special projects. Critical environments such as healthcare or utilities may rely on flexibility to deploy specialized coverage, like fire watches during a power outage. “The model adapts to the rhythm of the business, instead of forcing the business to adapt to a rigid contract.”
Blending people and technology
Flexible guarding also means leveraging the right mix of people and technology. On-site officers can provide an essential presence; mobile patrols offer coverage for multiple sites or rapid response, and remote guarding adds visibility and coordination across locations.
“Flexibility in combining on-site officers, mobile patrols, and remote guarding is about using each layer where it makes the most impact,” Zarna explains. “A flexible model lets you adjust the balance between these layers as risks, schedules, or operational needs change, so the program stays effective without unnecessary resources.”
Technology strengthens that adaptability. Integrated video and access control systems enable remote operators to monitor activity, guide officers, and respond in real-time. “This connection makes it easier to scale coverage up or down as needs change, helps with consistent operations across sites, and strengthens overall responsiveness without replacing the human element,” says Zarna.
Balancing risk and budget
One of the most significant advantages of flexibility is aligning costs with real risk. Instead of being locked into paying for static coverage, clients can scale out resources when and where they’re most needed.
“A flexible approach lets clients align their security resources with actual risk, rather than paying for coverage they don’t need,” says Zarna. “They can scale up during higher-risk periods or special events and scale down when demand is lower. The result is smarter resource allocation, better protection, and a program that adapts to the organization’s changing needs.”
Transparency is a critical part. Through MySecuritas, clients can view real-time updates and reporting across their security program. “Clear visibility and control make the program more reliable and help clients make informed decisions,” Zarna notes.
What clients should demand
Organizations considering flexible guarding should expect more than just scalability; they should demand consistency, integration, and transparency.
“If I were advising a client, I’d say there are a few non-negotiables in a flexible guarding model,” says Zarna. “First, consistent standards across all locations so every site receives the same level of service. Second, clear visibility and reporting, so they know what’s happening in real time. Third, the ability to scale coverage up or down as risks, hours, or special events change. And finally, coordination across on-site, mobile, and remote guarding teams, so every layer works together instead of operating in silos.”
Flexibility also supports long-term planning, not just short-term needs. “When a program can adapt to changing risks, evolving operations, or new sites, it allows leadership to plan with confidence,” Zarna says. “In the long run, flexibility helps your security grow with your business rather than lagging behind it.”
Adapting today, planning for tomorrow
Flexible guarding is about meeting organizations where they are, aligning coverage with current risks while leaving room to scale, adapt, and evolve. For businesses navigating a changing security landscape, demanding a model that is scalable, transparent, and integrated is essential.
If you’re looking for a security partner that adapts to your business, connect with Securitas USA to learn more about our flexible guarding models.
