Technology Solutions for Homeland Security
Can Technology Solve All of the Problems?
Over the past decades, the world has been characterized by the transformative power of technology, and this power has generated a belief that technology can be the solution to many human challenges. However, the emergence of Covid-19 has disapproved the narrative that technology can be a solution to any problem (Folmer, 2019). Despite all the hype in technology, digital technology could not prevent or even control the spread of the coronavirus. This means that technology, as has been said, cannot be a solution to every challenge (Bonvillian & Sharp, 2002). What the world needs is sound policy interventions, devoted professionals, and access to good healthcare. Therefore, Homeland Security cannot wholly rely on technology to sort out its security challenges; some of these challenges require different approaches away from technology.
However, there is no possibility of getting solutions to security problems without employing technology. In other words, technology is one of the major enabling factors in the fight against terrorist activities and natural disasters. Therefore, Homeland Security should strive as much as it can to acquire any available sophisticated technology that aids in strengthening the defense to ensure the security of the nation (Bonvillian & Sharp, 2002). A lot needs to be done in the area of homeland security for Americans to feel safe. Technology is expected to play a vital role since it will appear in every segment in making sure that the homeland security department is strengthened. It is true that technology already exists and is applied in sections such as airport security systems; this technology can be applied to homeland protection (Mallik, 2004). However, a lot of work needs to be done to get more ways in which the available technology could boost security and also more research to come up with more new technology to meet all the security needs.
Security entities such as homeland security could be late in adopting technology in their operations, but once the technology is implemented, the benefits become much clear to them. Some of the benefits of technology in homeland security are; first, technology helps homeland security to accurately collect timely data that could help in mitigating impending security threats (Danis, 2004). Modern technology has the capability of collecting real-time data that can help in making emergency decisions that could prevent a certain bad occurrence.
Secondly, technology is enabling security organizations such as Homeland Security to carry out rich reporting. These organizations are using security workforce software which is not only changing the way the reports are developed but also easing the analysis of the voluminous information contained in the reports (Folmer, 2019). Another benefit of technology in homeland security is that it is possible to achieve centralized control. Initially, the only way an organization could carry out quality assurance was to send field supervisors to the field to check out the security staff on patrol (Mallik, 2004). However, nowadays, mobile technology has made it possible to check who is active and who is not from the central point of command. This technology provides a high level of visibility; hence, the management needs only to follow up with those who are not registering activities.
As much as security organizations such as homeland security celebrate the benefits of technology, there are also some disadvantages of the technologies. First, technology in the security department has interfered with individual privacy and, thus, brings privacy concerns. Secondly, technology has enabled the mining of large data, and this data is more vulnerable (Mallik, 2004). Technology in the security system has also fueled social disconnect since people now feel comfortable spending their time alone with their gadgets in their hands at the expense of mingling with others. Another disadvantage of technology is that some of the technological equipment needs highly trained individuals to operate them hence, additional costs of training.
References
Bonvillian, W & Sharp, K. (2002). Homeland Security Technology. Retrieved from https://issues.org/bonvillian/
Danis, B. (2004). The Role of Technology in Homeland Security. https://www.umsl.edu/divisions/business/mis/files/pdfs/BOV05-1.pdf
Folmer, M. (2019). Top Benefits of Using Technology to Better Manage Security Workforces. Retrieved from https://www.securitymagazine.com/articles/90625-top-benefits-of-using-technology-to-better-manage-security-workforces
Mallik, A. (2004). Technology and Security in the 21st Century. A Demand-side Perspective. Oxford University Press. https://www.sipri.org/sites/default/files/files/RR/SIPRIRR20.pdf
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Question 
Can technology solve all of the problems? Craft a thought piece for a cyber conference of technology experts. Include your thoughts on the following:
The physical, legal, and ethical boundaries of technology
The possibility of achieving results without technology
The advantages and disadvantages of technology (i.e., unintended consequences)
Does the end justify the means?
When technology should be paramount, and when should it be sidelined
What society should truly expect from the future
Support your arguments with authoritative sources, and apply appropriate APA formatting guidelines.