Francis To Assume The Role Of Chair Of The SIA's Panel Of Executive Thought Leaders From SIA Member Companies

The Security Industry Association (SIA) has appointed Ken Francis – president of Eagle Eye Networks and a former member of the SIA Board of Directors – to serve as the new chair of the SIA Executive Advisory Board.

Established in 2017, the SIA Executive Advisory Board is a panel of executive thought leaders from SIA member companies and a forum that offers input on how market developments influence SIA’s strategy and key initiatives. The group advises the SIA Board of Directors on potential SIA member benefits on topics that include research, standards and technology and vertical market content.

“I am honored to chair the SIA Executive Advisory Board, which is made up of some of the most innovative leaders in the security industry,” Francis said. “I look forward to our working together to bring timely and impactful initiatives, such as the PASS program, to fruition.”

In his role as president of Eagle Eye Networks, Ken Francis provides insight into the enterprise and small business security markets and the fast-growing use of cloud technologies for the improvement of channel partners’ and customers’ cost reductions. Before he joined Eagle Eye Networks in 2016, Francis launched ADT Security Services back into the commercial marketplace following the spinoff and IPO of ADT by Tyco International in 2012. Previously, he served as the vice president of sales and marketing for UTC’s Global Security Products Business Unit, led the GE Security Integrated Systems Business Unit as the global product general manager and co-founded AMAG Technology, Inc. Francis holds a Bachelor of Business Administration from Florida State University and a Master of Business Administration from American University.

“SIA is honored to welcome Ken Francis – an inspiring security industry leader – as the new chair of SIA’s Executive Advisory Board,” said SIA Chair James Rothstein. “We congratulate Ken on his exceptional contributions to the industry, and we appreciate his dedication and willingness to share his time and knowledge on behalf of the SIA community in this role, helping us to deliver additional value to our members. The recommendations and input expressed by the EAB are highly valued by me and my fellow SIA Board members.”

Featured

  • The Evolution of IP Camera Intelligence

    As the 30th anniversary of the IP camera approaches in 2026, it is worth reflecting on how far we have come. The first network camera, launched in 1996, delivered one frame every 17 seconds—not impressive by today’s standards, but groundbreaking at the time. It did something that no analog system could: transmit video over a standard IP network. Read Now

  • From Surveillance to Intelligence

    Years ago, it would have been significantly more expensive to run an analytic like that — requiring a custom-built solution with burdensome infrastructure demands — but modern edge devices have made it accessible to everyone. It also saves time, which is a critical factor if a missing child is involved. Video compression technology has played a critical role as well. Over the years, significant advancements have been made in video coding standards — including H.263, MPEG formats, and H.264—alongside compression optimization technologies developed by IP video manufacturers to improve efficiency without sacrificing quality. The open-source AV1 codec developed by the Alliance for Open Media—a consortium including Google, Netflix, Microsoft, Amazon and others — is already the preferred decoder for cloud-based applications, and is quickly becoming the standard for video compression of all types. Read Now

  • Cost: Reactive vs. Proactive Security

    Security breaches often happen despite the availability of tools to prevent them. To combat this problem, the industry is shifting from reactive correction to proactive protection. This article will examine why so many security leaders have realized they must “lead before the breach” – not after. Read Now

  • Achieving Clear Audio

    In today’s ever-changing world of security and risk management, effective communication via an intercom and door entry communication system is a critical communication tool to keep a facility’s staff, visitors and vendors safe. Read Now

  • Beyond Apps: Access Control for Today’s Residents

    The modern resident lives in an app-saturated world. From banking to grocery delivery, fitness tracking to ridesharing, nearly every service demands another download. But when it comes to accessing the place you live, most people do not want to clutter their phone with yet another app, especially if its only purpose is to open a door. Read Now

New Products

  • HD2055 Modular Barricade

    Delta Scientific’s electric HD2055 modular shallow foundation barricade is tested to ASTM M50/P1 with negative penetration from the vehicle upon impact. With a shallow foundation of only 24 inches, the HD2055 can be installed without worrying about buried power lines and other below grade obstructions. The modular make-up of the barrier also allows you to cover wider roadways by adding additional modules to the system. The HD2055 boasts an Emergency Fast Operation of 1.5 seconds giving the guard ample time to deploy under a high threat situation.

  • ResponderLink

    ResponderLink

    Shooter Detection Systems (SDS), an Alarm.com company and a global leader in gunshot detection solutions, has introduced ResponderLink, a groundbreaking new 911 notification service for gunshot events. ResponderLink completes the circle from detection to 911 notification to first responder awareness, giving law enforcement enhanced situational intelligence they urgently need to save lives. Integrating SDS’s proven gunshot detection system with Noonlight’s SendPolice platform, ResponderLink is the first solution to automatically deliver real-time gunshot detection data to 911 call centers and first responders. When shots are detected, the 911 dispatching center, also known as the Public Safety Answering Point or PSAP, is contacted based on the gunfire location, enabling faster initiation of life-saving emergency protocols.

  • Compact IP Video Intercom

    Viking’s X-205 Series of intercoms provide HD IP video and two-way voice communication - all wrapped up in an attractive compact chassis.