Integration of Access Control Generates Real Added Value

Simple, flexible handling of access authorisations is just one of the many advantages of having digital access control. However, access control systems offer so much more when integrated with third-party systems, with operators and users alike benefiting from such integrations. In fact, the areas of application are almost unlimited – ranging from video surveillance and room management to time recording and building management. In this blog post, we delve a little deeper by looking at three examples.

#1 Classic Building Technology

Of all the technologies used in buildings, security technology is of particular importance. Systems for video surveillance, fire alarms and access control make decisive contributions to ensuring the safety of people. The obvious solution is to interconnect them to reduce complexity and increase efficiency, with the aim of managing entire buildings in a more efficient manner. With a seamless integration, for example, the heating can come on when an authorised person enters a room. Or the shutters can go up automatically as soon as they open the door. This is especially useful for office buildings, as integrating access control and building technology generates considerable cost savings and ensures efficient use of resources.

#2 Room Booking Platforms

Another typical example of where integration with access control makes sense are booking platforms. The connection can be used to automatically assign the appropriate access authorisations based on booking data, which can be issued as digital keys on smartphones and/or stored on an NFC transponder.

Both operators and users benefit from such integrations. Customers can simply book an appointment in the booking system. After confirmation, access authorisation is automatically granted for the connected electronic locks during the booked time slot and the customer can open the door using the Tapkey app. They no longer have to worry about waiting in front of a locked room.

The added value on the operator side goes without saying. Both locaboo, Bookzo and anny offer Tapkey integration on their booking platform. Customers can book and reserve conference rooms as well as sports facilities and assign automated access.

“With the Tapkey integration, we’re one step further towards having a completely digital, modern room booking system. Customers reap the benefits of an end-to-end process that can be handled completely online: from booking to keyless access to the room,” explains Oliver Wycisk, Co-Founder & Developer at anny.

#3 Home Automation Systems

The highly promising nature of the smart home automation market has been recognised for a long time. The market research company ResearchAndMarkets forecasts that the market will reach $187.8 billion worldwide by 2028, representing an average annual growth rate of 15.2% over this period. Part of this growth will come from the expansion of home automation systems to include access control technologies.

Various device interfaces can be used to connect different devices with each other and enable an optimally connected smart home. From the door intercom and air conditioning to the music system and garage door – with the right products and suitable integrations, your smartphone becomes the central control unit of your home.

We should remember, however, that the pros and cons of the various access control systems and their capabilities must be weighed up depending on the area of application. While smartphone access is ideal for single-family homes, offices, and coworking spaces, large organisational units such as airports or clinics are more likely to use biometric solutions to manage access and time recording.