As you read his suggestions, note that none of Rowen's recommendations are explicitly about technology. That's a sign that retailers need to start talking about wireless security at all levels of the company.

First, elevate the conversation. "The most successful security programs are those which gain the interest of C-level executives—early on," he writes. "This process will slightly vary from one retailer to another, but is commonly bound by a joint presentation of the company's current—and needed—security status to the board of directors."

Next, speak the right language. "While compliance is the goal on which most retailers currently focus, decision makers and LOB [line of business] personnel do not care about technology. By focusing on business drivers, wireless proponents can speak the language needed to realize the benefits of secure wireless solutions," Rowen notes. "This can be accomplished by addressing benefits in productivity, benefits in customer service, benefits in marketing—a language based more on revenue generation than purely cost avoidance. The ability to attain a higher level of customer centricity will always be viewed with greater interest, and by speaking directly to this point, enables foresight beyond the technological or compliance goal line."

Lastly, set clear objectives in realistically achievable pieces. "Due to the need-based urgency to sure up existing technologies and meet industry mandate deadlines, there is no shortage of conversation and 'quick fix' solutions to the customer data security dilemma facing our industry," he writes. "However, winning retailers consistently demonstrate a calm and calculated approach, avoiding the fruitless hair-on-fire trap, steadily tackling one attainable goal at a time."