Each year, CEIA USA examines the shifting landscape of safety technology to identify the most pressing questions facing organizations. As a world leader in security screening equipment with more than 60 years of innovation, CEIA provides cutting-edge solutions trusted by schools, airports, governments, military facilities, and organizations worldwide. We’ve seen that organizations achieve stronger, more sustainable safety outcomes when they evaluate technology through the lens of long-term value, usability, and trust. 

Here are five essential questions to consider as you evaluate your next investment in security.

• What does the total cost of ownership look like — including AI features and long-term scalability?

Look for systems with transparent, future-ready pricing. While some solutions seem low-cost upfront, they may lock you into recurring licensing fees for AI analytics, cloud access, or software updates—without ever transferring ownership. In 2025, budget-conscious organizations need full visibility into total cost over 3–5 years, especially as systems scale or integrate with other smart infrastructure.

• How is the detector tested, and is it certified to meet today’s security and health standards?

Verify the system is backed by independent lab testing and meets or exceeds current Federal detection benchmarks. In 2025, updated regulations and the increased use of medical wearables and implants make it essential that your technology is both accurate and non-invasive for diverse populations.

• Is it easy for staff to learn and operate— even with high turnover or hybrid security teams?

Prioritize systems with user-friendly interfaces, built-in tutorials, and minimal training time. In a 2025 landscape of high staff churn and cross-functional duties, intuitive tools reduce risk and help teams stay productive without the burden of steep learning curves or costly onboarding programs.

• What kind of technical support is included, and how fast is the response in critical moments?

Responsive, round-the-clock support is table stakes in 2025. Seek providers who offer real-time diagnostics, remote system resets, and predictive maintenance — not just standard call center support. Your tech partner should be a true operational ally, not just a vendor.

• How is data handled and stored, and does it align with updated privacy regulations and public expectations?

Today’s systems often log detailed activity for audits, alerts, or system optimization. Ensure data ownership, encryption, privacy-compliance (e.g., CCPA, GDPR-like state laws), and transparent storage — with no hidden fees for access, exporting, or retention.

By asking smart questions upfront, leaders can avoid costly missteps and choose solutions that truly fit their environment. At CEIA, our goal is to help organizations protect what matters most—people—while making security feel seamless and supportive.