Page 38 - Security Today, June 2018

opposite. While an IP architecture eliminates the need for wiring and extra hardware, the reduced costs mean customers can expand access control to more doors than before. They’re able to connect more doors in the same cost parameters as one traditionally wired door.
It goes beyond upfront expenses; the ability to provide incremen- tal value to new and existing customers is advantageous to growing business. Integrators are now positioned to enhance both security and convenience for customers, which will help solidify their relation- ships and expand future opportunities.
End users need a trusted partner to navigate the increasing num- ber of technologies available, and successful integrators will go be- yond the sale to educate and offer expert advice. In many cases, cus- tomers have not been exposed to the multiple connectivity options in the market. Start by educating on the different architectures available and the target applications for each. Connectivity isn’t a one-size-fits all application in most cases. Properties can blend the types of archi- tecture to reduce the overall infrastructure cost. A high-traffic open- ing might need real-time communication, while interior office doors don’t. Real-time connectivity to a wireless lock via a gateway is better suited for openings where lockdown capabilities are needed, whereas doors that need basic user access management may opt for Wi-Fi connectivity. The latter isn’t real-time, but provides daily momentary communication and access control.
Different architecture allows for greater adoption of locks on in- terior doors as they can be mixed and matched to meet the needs of each opening. What are the needs of the facility team? Do they need real-time monitoring? Or is it more important to see who or how many people accessed a space? It’s all about balancing the needs for security
with convenience as well as the expectation to adopt new technology. It’s important for properties to evolve with the technologies to
keep up with market demands.
We’ve already started to experience the demand for a one-card so-
lution. Switching between credentials—electronic or mechanical—is an inconvenience. Consider multifamily or mixed-use properties. Ten years ago it wasn’t uncommon to have a key that accessed the front door of an apartment building and other to get into the residence. Some even had a third credential to access a parking structure. Today, a single fob can grant access to all of these spaces. And soon, the fob will be a thing of the past. Users will want to do everything from their mobile device—a trend we’re already seeing grow in popularity, especially among younger generations.
Eventually, convenience will trump security at many interior doors. Intelligent electronic locks platforms are being used for new applications, and this change isn’t dictated on security needs. For example, The Juilliard School implemented a reservation system to overcome scheduling challenges for its practice rooms. Connecting wireless locks to its reservation module improved room utilization and efficiencies for students.
As an industry, we need to think beyond the pe- rimeter. Integrators are in a prime position to guide customers through connectivity choices to find an optimal balance for improved user experiences.
Robert Gaulden concentrates on electronic access control and expanding integrations in the multifam- ily market at Allegion.
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