A common perception is that access control serves only to keep bad people out. While that’s certainly a paramount concern, access control provides the foundation for physical security and proptech in general.
Since it was first introduced in the 1980s, access control technology has undergone a remarkable evolution. In the past, magnetic stripe cards and 125kHz low-frequency credentials were thought to be a significant improvement on manually operated locks and keys.
However, this is no longer the case. Modern access credentials incorporate several security features, such as encryption and authentication protocols, making them intrinsically more safe than older credentials that are not encrypted and are considerably easier to copy. Today, access control is about enabling movement into and around spaces.
Within the realm of PropTech, access control serves as a fundamental component in enhancing visitor management, package and food delivery, monitoring occupancy, and contributing to ESG reporting. Smart technology integrations make access control the foundational element of a full user experience.
Smart thermostats can be set so a space never feels too hot or too cold. Smart light controls ensure that lights aren’t left on while the space is unoccupied. These green technologies appeal to tenants with an interest in sustainability.
The future of access control is the integration with the world a person occupies in a space, leveraging the tools used every day like their mobile for access, connections to video and integrated with digital identity. As we work with owners and occupiers of different spaces, we are constantly seeing how Cloud-based access control is the key to enabling the best possible smart building experience.
Mary Clark, Chief Marketing Officer, Brivo