From April 30th to May 2nd, Birmingham hosted the remarkable “The Security Event 2024”, where the leading minds of the security industry gathered. Among the sea of innovations and discussions, one event stood out: the XForum. Led by industry thought leader Lee Odess, the program provided a platform for thousands of professionals. From physical security to cyber defense, the latest innovations and hot trends were discussed here.

Tapkey’s Participation in the XForum

Tapkey was a significant participant in the XForum, an event initiated and led by industry pioneer Lee Odess. This forum aimed to connect industry experts and stimulate discussions on key access control topics. It featured a wide range of presentations and panel discussions, with leading companies in the access control industry such as IDCUBE, ISEO Ultimate Access Technologies, iLOQ, SUprema Inc., HiveWatch, and HID.

In addition to Tapkey, experts from DOM UK were also present, showcasing the latest innovations from DOM Tapkey to visitors. At the booth, visitors could experience live demonstrations and try out the Tapkey app themselves.

Interesting Insights From Industry Professionals

The year 2024 is considered particularly challenging for the construction industry, with implications for the access control industry as well. However, this also presents significant opportunities to utilize buildings more effectively, find cost-saving potentials, and open up new business models. But that’s just one of the insights shared at the event.

On the XForum stage, numerous insider information was revealed. Over three days, 32 presentations were held, moderated and conducted by over 40 speakers from 35 leading companies. We’ve summarized some of the key insights for you:

#1 Integration into other systems is crucial. 
The importance of add-ons and integrations in access control systems is steadily increasing. This means providing good API connections for companies. Access control is increasingly seen not as a standalone component, but as part of a larger whole seamlessly integrated with other platforms and services.


#2 Cloud-based access solutions lead the future of the industry with unparalleled scalability.
By leveraging cloud technologies, companies can easily and quickly scale their access control systems to adapt to changing requirements. This flexibility allows infrastructure to be expanded or reduced as needed without requiring additional hardware or complex installations, thereby reducing costs. You can find all the advantages of cloud-based systems here.

#3 Multi-tenant residential buildings represent a particularly interesting sector.
The reason is simple. They encompass a variety of doors, including many central entrance doors. This necessitates complex access control systems that ensure both security and user-friendliness. More about the market here.

#4 Mobile Credentials are on the rise.
While cards remain traditional options, mobile credentials are increasingly gaining importance. Particularly among younger age groups, the acceptance is high, and many see mobile credentials as clear winners in the coming years. Companies with legacy systems relying on cards for years are increasingly faced with the need to transition to mobile credentials.

#5 When choosing between proprietary and non-proprietary access control systems, the debate revolves around control and flexibility.
Proprietary systems offer tightly integrated solutions that ensure smooth operation. However, this close integration can sometimes come at the expense of adaptability and interoperability. Non-proprietary systems prioritize openness and allow compatibility with a variety of hardware and software components. Finding the balance between security and user experience is a major challenge. However, the trend of modern access control systems is towards providing an outstanding user experience without neglecting security. Find out more here. 

#6 It’s important to find the balance between security and user experience.
Striking the optimal balance between robust security and user-friendly access is a significant challenge. However, the trend of modern access control systems is towards providing an outstanding user experience without compromising on security.

Here are some impressions of three days full of thought leadership at The Security Event 2024:

Jochen Schurich and Tom Graigner at The Security Event 2024
Jochen Schurich live at stage at The Security Event 2024
Jochen Schurich and Werner Roest at The Security Event 2024
Jochen Schurich at The Security Event 2024
Jochen Schurich live at stage at The Security Event 2024
Panel discussion at The Security Event 2024

The Security Event 2024 proved to be a success. Lee Odess also praised the event on his Linkedin account: “I’m thrilled to say it was a huge success. The presentations were engaging and the format allowed for diverse viewpoints.

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