2011 Student Writing Competition - Expanded
Topic Descriptions

The following topics should be viewed as a general guideline. Write on some aspect or theme that relates in some way to the required topic. Your paper does not have to use the suggested topic as a specific title or focus of discussion.

The Most Promising Technologies to meet Tomorrow's Security Challenges

What emerging technologies and applications are the most promising (in terms of projected cost versus potential benefit) in addressing future security challenges such as the terrorist threat, violence prevention, information technology risks and/or major crimes against business operations. What breakthrough solutions might be on the horizon? Feel free to address a specific challenge, industry sector or type of technology, and to tailor the topic to your particular interests/area of study.

Improving the Image and Reputation of the Security Profession

Even in our post 9/11 world many people envision "security" as the guard at the shopping mall or TSA officials charged with "harassing" travelers at airports. As a result, security professionals too often receive little or no respect. This can apply to security officers, corporate security managers and systems vendors. How can we improve the image of the security profession in the eyes of the public as well as corporate decision makers and government executives? Describe the situation along with the reasons for it, and present a workable strategy for improving the reputation and image of security at any or all levels.

Protecting Information and Intangible Assets in the 21st Century

Information and intangible assets account for a rapidly increasing portion of most organizations' overall value. At the same time, we face new threats (datamining, information brokers and more sophisticated cyber attacks) as well as traditional ones (such as social engineering, espionage and theft). Many executives focus their defensive efforts on "technology solutions" and consider their organization well-protected if they have a good firewall and network security measures in place. Others assume that if they have a patent, they're covered. But what about the human factor? Do social engineering, economic espionage, insider theft and open source collection still represent a major concern? How can businesses and/or government agencies better protect themselves from both new and traditional threats by focusing on "people-based" solutions?

The Challenge of Securing Cyberspace; Man or Machine?

As the challenges of protecting IT (Information Technology) assets continue to grow in extent and complexity, the controversy over the nature of the threat and appropriate solutions goes on. Is the problem a "human" one (cyber criminals, careless users, etc.) or a "technology" issue (improperly designed or configured systems and networks)? Perhaps more importantly, should proposed solutions focus on the human factor or the technology/system? Can IT risks be addressed solely from a technological perspective (hardware, software, etc.) or is it more effective to focus on people and procedures? What do you see as our most significant IT risks and potential solutions in the future? How can we begin to address those risks now?

Leveraging Low-Cost/Low-Tech Solutions for Contemporary Security Challenges

Often times, the first thought that comes to mind when looking at potential security solutions is: "we need to find the latest, coolest, most high-tech leading edge technology out there!" That may not, however, be the best approach. Many factors including cost, setting, simplicity, corporate culture and the threat, for example, may suggest a combination of low-cost and/or low-tech solutions. What are some of those low cost/low-tech solutions…and when and where might they be a good fit? You might want to consider such ideas as Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED), employee awareness training, synergistic security measures, resource sharing and other techniques – and how they might fit into a comprehensive assets protection strategy without busting the budget.

The Impact of Globalization on Security, Assets Protection and Organizational Resilience

Today's world is more interconnected than ever before. This fact has both positive and negative implications from a security perspective. Explore some of those positives and negatives in the context of corporate security, global business operations, intellectual property protection, crisis management, supply chain reliability, the legal/regulatory environment and/or personal security for corporate officials. You may also consider particular risks such as those related to terrorism, organized crime, corruption, product counterfeiting and piracy, information-based risks or transportation risks. As an alternative – or in addition – you can examine some security benefits of increased global interconnectivity. How can security professionals leverage global resources to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of assets protection and risk management programs?