The modern office building has evolved well beyond physical keys and security guards to maintain safety and limit access to the premises. With innovation producing exciting new solutions at a dizzying pace, working with a professional access control firm can help building owners, managers, and tenants stay current in this critical area of building management. Modern access control systems serve many more functions than unlocking doors; they offer mission-critical information and flexibility that is in high demand by discerning tenants.

Versatility is the Key to Success

Today’s business owners can select from a broad spectrum of credential types and combinations, each offering unique strengths and catering to different operational requirements. Here are some of the industry standards in access control:

• Key Fobs: Attaching easily to key rings or lanyards, these compact tokens are an excellent companion to standard employee equipment. A key fob can be programmed with unique access permissions to customize them to the needs and restrictions of each individual carrying a fob.
• Proximity Cards: The size of a credit card, this access technology can also double as employee identification. Users can wave or tap the card near a dedicated reader to enter or exit specific locations, including the main entryway and other secure areas on the premises.
• Mobile Credentials: Smartphones have become ubiquitous, and people rarely separate themselves from this device, reducing the likelihood of loss or theft. With a secure mobile application, permissions can be granted to each employee and changed on the fly, allowing doors to be unlocked with a tap or swipe, or barring access to a terminated employee. Mobile credentials are particularly useful for companies with multiple sites or remote workers who need flexible access.
• Biometric Credentials: The gold standard of high security access is biometric. Fingerprint, retina, iris, voice, and even gait recognition can be used to grant entry only to verified individuals. Biometric access complements the heightened security with heightened convenience, since users no longer need to fumble for cards or codes.

Innovative Features and Future Trends

Employee credentials are not the only aspect of access control that has undergone intense innovation. Sophisticated digital platforms now manage access control, allowing administrators to monitor entry logs, adjust permissions, and respond in real time to changing needs. These platforms can also be integrated with other building management systems—such as video surveillance or environmental controls for a comprehensive approach to access and security.

Cloud-based management increases the speed and accuracy of updates to credentials, allowing remote, instantaneous issuance or revocation as needed. For businesses with multiple locations, centralized control is a game-changer: managers can oversee security across all sites from a single dashboard.

Finally, artificial intelligence and machine learning have had a significant impact on the next wave of access control. These technologies can analyze entry patterns, flag unusual activity, and even predict potential security risks before they happen. As these capabilities mature, business owners will have even greater tools for safeguarding their facilities.

Choosing the Right Solution for Your Business

With numerous exciting options available, businesses are no longer limited to a “one size fits all” solution. It is possible to tailor solutions to accommodate the number of users, security requirements, and integration with other technologies.

Datawatch is a proud provider of the most sophisticated and innovative solutions available in the access control industry. We work closely with building owners, managers, and their prized tenants to ensure customized solutions that meet the specific needs of the premises. To learn more about our services, contact us today.