What You Missed from the Unified IT and Security Twitter Chat

There are a few: strained relationships, understaffing/talent gaps, and lack of the right tools. And these aren't just true in EMEA. These are challenges around the globe. Collaboration and consolidation are global issues.

— Jeff Pollard (@jeff_pollard2) July 15, 2020

Relationships are a top challenge? Between Security and IT teams or within their own respective teams?

— Jeremy van Doorn (@JCvanDoorn) July 15, 2020

All of the above. This data was shocking! The relationship between the CIO and CISO? 41% said it was negative. Security and IT as a whole? 84% negative. Security and IT direct reports (Managers, Directors, and VPs)? 78% negative.

— Jeff Pollard (@jeff_pollard2) July 15, 2020

I'm not surprised to hear about the talent gaps for Security and IT. I hear that all the time. #UnifiedITandSecurity. @jeff_pollard2 @JCvanDoorn

— J8y (@JoeBaguley) July 15, 2020

So do I, and this research reaffirmed that. From our 1,400+ respondents around the globe, 64% of Security teams and 53% of IT teams are understaffed. And when they can hire, many of them just can't find the right talent. There's definitely a shortage.

— Jeff Pollard (@jeff_pollard2) July 15, 2020

.@jeff_pollard2, tell us more about the lack of the right tools these teams have. #UnifiedITandSecurity@JCvanDoorn

— J8y (@JoeBaguley) July 15, 2020

It certainly isn't a lack of tools, but a lack of the right tools. On average, EMEA companies have about 28.2 security products.

— Jeff Pollard (@jeff_pollard2) July 15, 2020

Same. This really tells us that they are just using tool on top of tool to fill in gaps that other tools can't fill. The BIG problem is the lack of tool integrations. Only 34% say their tools are mostly or completely integrated.

— Jeff Pollard (@jeff_pollard2) July 15, 2020

So how do we address these challenges head on? #UnifiedITandSecurity @jeff_pollard2 @JCvanDoorn

— J8y (@JoeBaguley) July 15, 2020

With #UnifiedITandSecurity. IT and Security teams need to have a unified, consolidated IT and Security strategy. Even though their top goals for the year is increased collaboration, only 3 in 10 in EMEA have adopted this type of strategy.

— Jeff Pollard (@jeff_pollard2) July 15, 2020

The good news is teams realize how important this is. 41% are planning to consolidate their strategy in the next 12 months.

— Jeff Pollard (@jeff_pollard2) July 15, 2020

Did any of the respondents share what drove them to consolidate their strategy?

— Jeremy van Doorn (@JCvanDoorn) July 15, 2020

Of those who had adopted, both IT and Security respondents said increased security was the top driver. It's clear they see security as a team sport. Other reasons were tech advancement and better visibility, both of which are challenges when you don't have #UnifiedITandSecurity

— Jeff Pollard (@jeff_pollard2) July 15, 2020

Any advice for people just getting started with consolidating IT and Security strategies?

— J8y (@JoeBaguley) July 15, 2020

Look to successful peers for good examples of 'what good looks like' for a shared Security model. Keep open lines of communication. Work under complimentary goals (not competing). Make sure your technology only helps, doesn't hurt in strategy consolidation.

— Jeff Pollard (@jeff_pollard2) July 15, 2020