Physical security professional’s body of knowledge: A cultural domain analysis of physical security’s knowledge structure

Abstract

The study undertook a cultural domain analysis to articulate physical security’s knowledge system, isolating the fundamental knowledge units and building their structure. This applied a multiphase approach, (a) a literature critique, (b) expert interviews, (c) quantitative validation, and (d) focus group analysis. Findings demonstrate this knowledge comprises a broad matrix of task related knowledge categories, ranging from diagnosing risk, professional inference using security theories and principles, to treatment via engineering knowledge supported by professional attributes.