9/11 Commission Report Has Technology Implications

Anyone who hasn't been living on the moon for the past two weeks is aware of the release of the final report from the 9/11 Commission, attempting to explain how the events of Sept. 11, 2001 occurred, and (more importantly) how to prevent them from happening again. As you might expect, technology is recommended as a solution, albeit a tiny part of a comprehensive anti-terror strategy.

The technical discussion of the report covers biometric identification systems -- how to standadarize them, and how to use them more effectively. The report also discusses profiling and command-and-control systems. However, this is likely stratching the surface of the ways in which technology can be used to combat terrorists. Lots of process work needs to happen as well before anything can be deployed effectively. And to its credit, the report also noted privacy concerns, and the need to hold authorities accountable for the way in which surveillance technology is used.

Expect to hear more discussion of security technology as Congress begins responding to the 9/11 Commission Report.