Using Space and Technology to Reduce Crime

Schlomo Angel was an early pioneer of the notion that design and use of space can impact crime and loss prevention. In his thesis he states “The physical environment can exert a direct influence on crime settings by delineating territories, reducing or increasing accessibility by the creation or elimination of boundaries and circulation networks, and by facilitating surveillance by the citizenry and the police.”

Consider the impact of open concept offices and glass dividers not just in terms of building culture and inclusion, but also as deterrent to inappropriate actions often reserved for behind closed doors.

Access Control Systems have grown significantly over the past years to address a variety of applications within a wide range of budgets.

This use of technology has advanced further with what could be best described as reachable price points for video surveillance technologies and access control systems.

The more palatable price points, constant connectivity capability and the acceptance of video surveillance by the public-at-large makes the use of technology a natural fit with design elements to reduce or redirect criminal activity and behavior.

Consider how these technologies may allow you to redirect crime or the potential for crime in your world.