While considered by some an obscure technology, biometrics use in commercial businesses for access control is picking up steam, reports consulting firm International Biometrics Group. In fact, the firm estimates annual biometrics revenue to reach $1.2 billion this year.
Smaller businesses are often quicker to embrace the technology. Several Akron, Ohio, restaurants are putting the technology to use and are reporting great results.
Employees use a fingerprint scanner login system to clock in and out, place food orders and print checks, the owners say. Work is more efficient and employees can no longer forget their ID numbers.
The technology also eliminates “buddy punching,” where one employee is able to clock in another employee, and forces managers to remain vigilant in security. For example, a manager would have to physically override a transaction rather than give an employee his PIN.
