COMMERCIAL SAFETY & SECURITY
Shaping the Future with Interconnected Door Hardware
The adoption of innovative and interconnected door hardware systems can help overcome the challenges associated with building security , explains Daniel May of Consort Architectural Hardware .
» THE SECURITY OF OUR BUILT environment and the safety of its people is paramount throughout a building ’ s lifecycle . While these elements remain a primary focus at each touchpoint of a construction project , today ’ s design teams are sooner adopting modern access control systems to address this age-old challenge , but why ?
Where systems were once rudimentary , modern access control has evolved into a revolutionary factor of building design , unlocking various benefits for its many users in the process . The Internet of Things ( IoT ) has enhanced building security as we know it , and as technology continues to advance , more options enter the market . Following more than a decade of innovation and integration , the access control market is projected to grow year on year , from £ 7.8 billion in 2023 to £ 11.8 billion by 2028 .
Modern user requirements have led to several operational and technological advancements during this period , and decision makers and design teams alike can now choose from a versatile selection of options . Some door hardware products now utilise smart locks , cloud control and even biometrics for example , and most recently , there ’ s been a substantial change to the way access control systems operate , with focus moving towards end users and ease of use .
From an operational perspective , interconnected access control systems gift users with an intuitive network that improves building security through the use of real-time status updates , while also providing them with the ability to grant instant access approval and denial at the touch of a button . Often , users can operate their building ’ s various access points through their mobile phone , which has led to improved flexibility and efficiency in most environments - whether at home or in a public access property .
The security benefits also become clear when compared to the alternative of physical keys . If a traditional key is lost or stolen , the security of a building becomes at risk until it is found or replaced . Intuitive access control systems are designed to build upon the traditional lock and key methods . By seamlessly integrating smart door hardware into both new and retrofit projects , users can manage access points and improve security across the building - without stifling ease of access , stunting future scalability or unsettling the aesthetics .
As many adopt Wi-Fi infrastructures , NFC technology and cloud services into their buildings , decision makers must also consider the need for better standards . While the introduction of IoT may advance security , performance and functionality , it can also introduce new risks which must be mitigated by adhering to both localised and international
Sources : https :// www . marketsandmarkets . com / Market-Reports / access-control-market-164562182 . html
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DECEMBER 2023
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