The attack in Boston will no doubt be examined for a long time to come. Sponsors and organizers of large public events will have to take notice of the results of that analysis and adjust security procedures accordingly.
As a general proposition, a mere "hardening of the targets" will not be enough to secure events and places that involve large public gatherings. Instead, the approach to security will have to be taken to an even higher level, where on-site physical protection measures are complemented by even more sophisticated approaches to providing patrons, customers and invited guests a suitably secure environment. Doing so is not just a necessity to meet what will likely be an increased standard of care, but it is also the right thing to do, as well as potentially good business practice.
