Just who, exactly, is taking ownership?

Sir – although in certain areas TSI's 'Guide to the Procurement and Management of Manned Security' ('Selection box', SMT, February 2004, pp34-35) is probably beyond reach – certainly in terms of the industry in its current state – it nevertheless represents a good purchase for any manager who's responsible for security within his or her organisation. At just £25 per copy, it most certainly represents good value.

The Working Party members of The Security Institute involved in the preparation of the Guide ('Right guard', SMT, December 2003, pp26-29) certainly reads like a 'Who's Who?' of the security industry. That said, given this impressive array of talent, I believe it was a mistake to give individuals ownership of specific sections of the Guide.

Cynics may argue – not without some justification – that going down this particular route affords additional commercial benefit to the specific authors, whereas in reality it weakens the overall impact of the Guide. The Institute is strong enough to stand on its own feet, and should be seen to take ownership of all aspects within the Guide.