Which phase involves identifying the assets that need protection in physical security planning?

The asset identification phase is crucial in physical security planning because it focuses specifically on recognizing and listing the assets that require protection. This phase entails understanding the nature of the assets, including their value, importance, and potential risks they face. By clearly identifying what needs safeguarding, security plans can be tailored effectively to ensure adequate protection measures are put in place.

During the asset identification phase, organizations can determine whether the assets are tangible, such as equipment or buildings, or intangible, such as data and intellectual property. This foundational step informs subsequent phases of the security planning process, such as risk assessments and vulnerability assessments, as it provides a clear framework of what assets the security measures are designed to protect.