ASSA ABLOY delivers detailed analysis of wireless access control market

“We are delighted to offer fresh insights into the ongoing digitalisation of access control,” explained Richard Sharp, director of product line management for digital access solutions at ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions. “A particular focus of the new report is access control’s potential impact on the wider business as an enabler for business intelligence, cost efficiency and, of course, better performance in terms of sustainability.”

Sharp continued: “The report highlights ways in which Security Departments and consultants can contribute directly towards business strategy and reveals data which makes it clear this process should happen sooner rather than later.”

Convenience and connectivity

According to ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions, convenience has triumphed. End users now prize flexible and scalable technologies which are easy to use and integrate with building systems. In the survey underpinning the report, 93% of respondents agreed that compatible and integration-ready standards are important when choosing or recommending access control.

“These days,” continued Sharp, “security is often merely assumed. The role of access control is now about helping the host business to work smarter, thereby saving time and costs in the process.”

One key technology for convenience is the smart phone. On that point, data outlined in the report highlights the fast-growing deployment of mobile credentials in organisations of almost every size and type.

Alongside convenience, the report reveals an urgent business case for connected intelligence within and across organisational functions, including by way of combining cyber and physical security under one internal roof.

For example, only 12% of survey respondents said they were fully prepared for the implications of forthcoming European cyber security legislation. “The cyber security knowledge gap in ‘traditional’ security and facilities management departments is real,” explained Sharp. “As the report highlights, combination cyber physical security attacks are on the rise. Now is a good time to upgrade internal systems and knowledge.”

Cost and workflow efficiencies

The current economic climate has brought about an increased focus on cost and workflow efficiencies across organisations of almost every size and type. This presents an opportunity for security managers and directors to show how they can contribute towards ongoing business success.

“Data gathered from security systems can be used in many other areas of the business,” asserts the report, “such as managing the hybrid working patterns of members of staff and improving energy efficiency by only heating and/or lighting occupied areas of the building.”

In conclusion, Richard Sharp observed: “Security can escape its silo. If organisations are to survive and thrive, it simply must do so.”

*The 24-page Wireless Access Control Report 2023 from ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions includes much more in-depth trends coverage and expert analysis. Free copies are available to download at https://www.assaabloy.com/group/emeia/campaigns/wireless-access-control-report-2023