Benefits of Implementing a Mobile Access Control System in Workspace

Mobile access control (MAC) offers secured access to buildings, and areas in exchange for user credentials collected through devices like smartphones, smartwatches, and tablets. Each of these credentials is unique, encrypted, and stored in the devices as an individual’s identity. These systems can be used across workplaces, libraries, gyms, hotel check-ins, public transport, etc. The ever-rising penetration of smartphones in daily life, integration of Internet of Things (IoT), and increasing awareness of consumers regarding security breach and privacy is contributing to the growth of the global mobile access control market.

Traditional security methods faced numerous challenges, including breaching weak access controls, absence of emergency protocols, and a high volume of unauthorized access. Backed by a secured, user-friendly cloud interface system, and remote management, the mobile access control provides multiple benefits to consumers:

Automated Design and Workflow

The mobile access control system is largely automated and nullifies access to authorized personnel to certain areas or hours in a day by pre-defined rules. These save manpower as well as chances of human error to a great extent. Most manufacturers rely on Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) or Near Field Communication (NFC) technologies which allow the users to connect with the reading machine from a limited distance. The integration of MAC involves the upgradation of a mobile-compatible door reader and purchasing mobile credential licenses. The system typically involves administrators sending a link and a code for the user to become registered, after which the user can access various places using the mobile information sent by administrators. Companies like Imprivata provide simplified device access, privacy for shared devices, asset tracking status and other services that enable fast user switching, and SSO for shared Android devices and apps. Users can access shared devices with the simple tap of a proximity badge and can then SSO to their applications. The automated workflow saves the cumbersome effort of entering a huge number of data and information manually within minutes.

Secured and Convenient

Unlike key cards or traditional keys, mobile phones cannot be easily cloned as they require a passcode, facial ID, or fingerprint identification to unlock. Built-in tools of the system keep the communication anonymous and encrypted, which is extremely difficult to breach. As no confidential information is on display, it is also hard for anyone to copy them. This enables real-time audit trails which are automatically recorded in activity logs, allowing the user to keep a check on who is accessing the premise. Just in case a user loses the mobile device, it can be easily revoked and restored once logged in from a new device.
 

Enhanced Workspace Experience

Mobile access control offers an improved workspace experience by streamlining interoffice travel. Companies such as Salto provide a keyless cloud-based system that allows access permissions while travelling. Employees can book meetings in rooms and open doors through the same device with their mobile credentials. Moreover, employees often don’t have to send email alerts before time and request for hardcopy access cards. The visiting staff can obtain a visiting pass via email for access from a remote location. Smartphone access control also makes it easy to onboard new employees and give them all the security access they need to do their job on their first day, rather than having to manually add them into your system or give them unique keycards or pins, which can quickly become clumsy.

Cost Efficient

According to Phil Coppola, HID Business Development Director Mobile Solutions, around 17.3% cardholders have reported the loss of their credentials annually. For an organization with an average employee size of 40,000, at least 10,000 credentials are lost per year. Additionally, there is no cost for issuing fading or lost cards. Mobile access control does not require the installation of an expensive security system or maintenance. The fully digitized design of MAC saves a huge expense of installing a new security system, each time the office or business center changes location. Names like ICT, Brivo, and Salto stand out amongst the many companies providing MAC solutions. These systems not only provide commercial-grade access control but also seamlessly integrate with other systems.

Consolidates Usage Data

Using this innovative system, companies can derive insightful security analytics and engage in active improvements. Moreover, operational workflows can also be optimized through a clear understanding of the information. With the aid of machine learning companies and organizations can make predictive analytics of easy-to-detect security threats where they can immediately identify irregular attempts of check-ins, unusual activities, and more.

Endnote

Administrators can have permissions via a safe management portal with a mobile access control system. The servers based on cloud technology enable the managers to allow/activate, deactivate or revoke the remote access, ensuring remote and centralized management of licensing. This is specifically helpful for organizations with offices at multiple locations, leading to easy, well-managed visitor interactions and flexible schedules of work.

To get an insightful, predictive analysis of the upcoming trends in mobile access control system market, reach out to Research Dive analysts now!

About the Author(s)

     

Pooja Parvatkar

Pooja is an accomplished Editor with almost 6 years of experience in editing and a Master’s degree in analytical chemistry from the Mumbai University. She started off as an academic editor in one of India’s first and largest language solution provider companies. Post her rewarding tenure there, she further went on to pursue the role of a content development editor with a UK-based publishing house and worked in proximity with some of the IT biggies from around the world and published 8 books in a span of 10 months. Pooja currently handles the content and editing team at a market research company in Pune, India. Apart from her career in editing, she has been a professional dancer and specializes in Jive, Salsa, Waltz, Bollywood, Indian Folk, Belly Dancing, Dancersize, and Semiclassical.