The Locksmith Journal Jan/Feb 2020 - Issue 66 | Page 53

SECURITY SYSTEMS The revolution is coming So, as increased connectivity continues to drive market trends, will it eventually force facilities to make the switch? That debate can only be answered with time. However, we only have to look at the accelerating growth of mobile credential usage to see that these disruptive trends could be moving faster than we think. And for that we must prepare. Seamless integration really is key here. As more choose to update the systems on their premises, we must ensure that building security isn’t compromised in the process. Whilst there’s still a place for physical hardware, facility managers can no longer deliver the expected level of security with a mismatch of security systems running through their buildings. The incorporation of IoT-led security devices (designed to integrate with existing systems) should be seen as a step forward. Providing systems have been designed with integration, scalability and flexibility features in mind – building security and operations can be improved. Take a larger premises with numerous buildings, such as a hospital or a university campus, for example. With various building types and numerous access points, a set of facilities such as this can own multiple security systems. Today, integrated networks can help facility managers successfully manage multiple geographically dispersed locations in real-time – something that has not been possible from one system until recently. Adding to that, the data that is collected and monitored via these systems is invaluable for facility managers, allowing them to better aid the flow of movement and even understand weak areas of security. Seamless upgrades Although the phrase “integration” has almost become clichéd in our industry, the reality is that it is a concept of great importance and one that can no longer be ignored. In short, pairing existing systems with fully-integratable modern access control can not only streamline processes but also improve existing security networks. And as market demand shifts and manufacturers continue to offer these simplified security systems, it could only be a matter of time until most premises choose to incorporate them. After all, the benefits are clear and the technology is available. And with this in mind, maybe access control truly does belong on the network. www.allegion.com Sources; https://www.marketwatch.com/press-release/at-125-cagr-wireless-connectivity-market-size-poised-to-touch-usd-1279-bn-by-2027-2019-07-04, https://www.allegion.co.uk/en/aboutus/ourglobalbrands/isonas.html, https://www.businessdailymirror.com/2019/10/30/network-access-control-nac-software-market-expert-guide-to-boost-the-industry-in-global-market-share/, https://www.securityworldmarket.com/uk/News/Business-News/mobile-vs-physical-access-credentials-a-tough-battle1#.XbrU40X7SlN JAN/FEB 2020 Magazine Sponsor Issue Takeover locksmithjournal.co.uk 53