The key benefits and considerations of integrated access control

The benefits of integrated access control systems

The main benefit of developing integrated access control systems is that required security and building management processes can be streamlined to meet custom requirements. To explore this idea further, here are a few examples of how custom access control integrations can help property owners enhance core operations.

Improved security posture

Choosing to combine the operation of multiple security systems helps to enhance an organization’s overall security posture. While access systems alone may reduce the risk of intrusion events, and CCTV systems may provide evidence of criminal activity, integrated access control and commercial CCTV solutions enable both security aspects to be addressed equally.

For example, teams can instantly review real-time CCTV footage to better understand unfolding incidents if a suspicious access attempt is detected. If further access control integrations are pursued, like threat detection and intrusion alarm system integrations, automated responses can be created to add extra layers of security. This ensures events are always actioned promptly.

Supports security staff

Integrated access control systems provide security teams with accurate information regarding live incidents. All active security systems can be viewed simultaneously from a centralized observation station, and real-time alerts ensure that even the smallest anomalies are brought to the attention of on-site and remote security personnel.

When cloud-based integrated access systems are used, staff can receive notifications directly to smart devices. Such solutions enable teams to plan and adjust in-person patrols in response to unfolding incidents, helping to measurably improve response times.

Custom automated responses

Integrated access control systems offer property owners a great deal of flexibility through customized incident responses. Stimuli detected by one system can inform the operation of the next, enabling staff to address common threats quickly and effectively.

Access control integrators will work closely with business owners and security personnel to develop custom integrations and automations. Provisions can be made to account for both industry and business-specific requirements to improve security capabilities and make sure systems meet strict regulations. Additionally, systems can be scaled as and when required.

Streamlined incident reporting

When integrated access control security systems are utilized, business owners benefit from the free sharing of security data between all active systems. If a security event is detected by one device, accurate records of the incident will be automatically logged across all systems.

For example, if a suspicious access incident is detected, teams can quickly locate relevant CCTV footage to support security investigations. With easy access to accurate time, date, credential and CCTV data, teams can analyze security trends to uncover vulnerabilities that may need to be addressed, ultimately providing a more holistic view of all security incidents.

Cost-efficiency over time

Developing integrated access control systems can save businesses considerable amounts of money over time. Rather than developing multiple access control, video security, alarm and threat detection systems, each of which will require dedicated maintenance and update procedures, businesses can design unified systems to simplify operations.

This also ensures that all security systems are updated simultaneously, reducing the risk of vulnerabilities being exposed to malicious actors. The integrated security system can be reviewed and serviced once to ensure sites are always reliably protected.

Common access control integrations

The access control sector has expanded by 23% recently, reflecting a growing desire for increased security among businesses and property owners. One of the key benefits of using access control systems above traditional commercial door lock and key solutions concerns the ability to converge security technologies for a seamless approach to overall physical security and access control.

Below are some examples of smart access control integrations for modern property owners.

Video security solutions

Access control and video surveillance integration enable property owners to observe events in real-time and collect contextual data to support security investigations. IP security cameras linked to card readers can be programmed to automatically record and flag footage of access events, enabling on-site and remote security staff to visually verify the legitimacy of access requests.

Video analytics software

Access control and CCTV integration may be further enhanced via video surveillance analytics solutions. Smart software tools can be programmed to automatically identify stimuli like unusual motion, unknown persons and contraband items. If such events are detected, linked access systems can be automatically locked to ensure quick responses.

Threat detection devices

Specialized threat detection devices, such as motion, sound, pressure, and heat sensors, can also be integrated into access systems. Bespoke responses can be programmed to instruct linked access locks to automatically engage in response to suspicious activity. For example, if sounds consistent with a break-in are heard, all access locks can be automatically secured.

Alarm systems

On-site and silent alarms can be integrated into access systems to ensure security staff are promptly warned of suspicious activity. If a failed access attempt is detected, on-site alarms may sound, and remote alerts may be sent to staff to request an appropriate response. Lockdown security systems can also be integrated with access control in conjunction with alarms for a robust response to potential threats. This type of access integration can be particularly beneficial for multi-site access control systems.

Building management systems

Common building management technologies can be linked to access systems to add further functionality to existing devices. For example, occupancy monitors can open or close select access points to ease congestion in high-traffic areas. Similarly, HVAC systems may be instructed to only activate when rooms are occupied to limit energy usage.

Communications solutions

Access control integrations with intercom systems enable staff to communicate directly with visitors remotely in real-time. If an unknown person makes an access request or a failed attempt is detected, a direct line of communication can be established to address live issues.

Considerations for developing access control integrations 

While the benefits of integrated access control systems may be clear, designing an effective solution will require careful consideration and planning. Business and property owners will need to account for unique requirements, potential limitations, and future provisions in terms of maintenance and scalability. Below are some best practices for teams to consider.

• Objectives: For an integrated access system to be effective, the proposed solution must be designed to meet business objectives. Teams must decide what types of data they wish to collect, which security incidents most commonly impact operations, and what degree of visibility into security events will be required.
• System design: The design plan will account for the integrated access control system best suited to the business. Should the system be closed, with only authorized users able to view security data? Should the system be centralized to simplify management across multiple sites? Plans must meet the business’ needs.
• Hardware: Different types of access readers, cameras, alarms and other security hardware will better suit different businesses. A smaller business may benefit from simple RFID card reader systems and fixed-view cameras, while a more complicated business may need advanced credential types and adjustable cameras.
• Cloud capabilities: Cloud-based integrated access systems can be a great benefit to businesses of all sizes. Under such a system, updates can be applied over the internet, various devices can freely communicate wirelessly and security staff can view active systems remotely at any time to provide 24/7 observation capabilities.
• Choosing the right vendor: Designing an effective integrated access control system can be complicated, so it’s important to work with trained access control integrators through the design and installation process. Carefully review local security system integration teams and professionals to find a reliable service provider with relevant experience.
• System compatibility: The operating software used to control access systems, CCTV cameras, and other security devices must be compatible with the software used to control the final integrated system. Consult with trained access control integrators to ensure compatibility across all aspects of the installation.
• Data management: Provisions must be made to ensure existing networks can handle data flow between integrated systems. Efforts must be made to set up firewalls, configure IP addresses and implement encryption tools to ensure secure communications. This is especially important when more privacy-sensitive access control methods are used, such as biometric entry systems.
• System synchronization: For integrated access control systems to work optimally, all integrated devices must be synchronized. The time and date associated with all active CCTV, access control, alarm and threat detection systems must be the same to ensure all recorded logs and data correlate accurately and consistently.
• Data analytics tools: Navigating access control software can be simplified using data analytics tools. When setting up the system, analytics tools can be deployed to automatically analyze collected data. Insights provided by these tools can help security personnel adjust individual components to mitigate vulnerabilities.

Conclusion

Access control systems are a central component of effective security systems for businesses of all sizes, helping stakeholders prevent unauthorized access to private locations. While using access systems alone is a great step towards a more secure environment, choosing to pursue access control integrations enables organizations to create truly bespoke systems.

When using an integrated access control system, business owners and security teams can receive real-time information about potential threats, analyze security data collected across multiple systems and develop automated responses to common threats. Provided solutions are developed in collaboration with experienced integrators and designed to suit the unique needs of each business, integrated access systems provide unmatched property protection.