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S-24 ACCESS CONTROL TRENDS AND TECHNOLOGY 2016 JULY/AUGUST If you are dealing with a large cam- pus or business site, the security needs are likely to be much more complex, with different types of buildings requiring different levels of security. Not every door in the facility has to be a controlled entrance, nor is it always necessary to have 100 per- cent, 24-hour control. Your guidance on these types of projects will be par- ticularly crucial in determining what is appropriate. The building's construction will also play a role in determining the right solution since it can be difficult to wire a system in an existing or histori- cal building. Networked locks that connect to a central access control system give you the flexibility to build a system that includes both hard- wired and wireless locks. A wireless solution allows for easy installation that results in minimal disruption to their environment and can be finished quickly and cost- effectively. It's important to remem- ber though that not all wireless locks need to be networked to function effectively. For clients who lack the IT infrastructure necessary to support a fully networked system, standalone wireless locks may be a good solution for some or all of the doors. Flexibility is Key Clients frequently express concerns that the system they select today will not be flexible enough to be upgraded and expanded over time as their needs change. One of the biggest challenges integrators face is providing a viable, integrated solu- tion that can meet current safety and security issues, as well as accom- modate emerging technologies that will allow the system to expand and adapt as needed in future. Such solutions should be able to oper- ate current technologies, as well as those under development, without compromising or risking investments in their present systems. As more businesses adopt elec- tronic access control, there is a greater appreciation for the value it provides—namely, enhanced secu- rity, more efficient management and greater convenience. In fact, now businesses are not only adding access control to their main facilities, but they're asking security integra- tors how they can extend it to parking garages, warehouses, storage units and other buildings not connected to the main facility. Successfully extending the secu- rity perimeter to remote locations requires careful evaluation. Limitations to extending access control include data transmission and potential costs. As a result, it often becomes a phase 2 or 3 initiative for a client. A client may know what they want, but the fiscal planning may occur over a period of time. In those cases, it's typically best to create a scalable plan that ensures the IT infra- structure and associated products are "future-proof." Design an open platform system that will provide the end user with many options now and in the future, rather than locking them into a proprietary technology that forces them into a specific product or brand—and another significant invest- ment if they want to make changes. Achieve Balance In any given facility there are multiple openings to secure, and multiple people who need access. Helping your client understand their credential options and what credential works best for their needs will be an impor- tant part of planning and implement- ing their access control solution. Issues to review and consider include: • Are they choosing a networked sys- tem where issuing and managing card credentials make sense? • Do they need to integrate cashless vending with their credential system? • W ill t hey b e inte g r atin g tim e a n d attendance into their access control system? • Are the locks being accessed in an interior or ex terior lo c ation w here weather may be a concern? • How deeply will they want to monitor each user 's access and movement within the facility? • Does everyone have the same level of security clearance or is there a need for multiple security/access levels? "Typically, security, technology, and usability are the key priorities," Larsen explains. "The goal is to bal- ance priorities for each organization. In a clean room environment, for example, usability may be the driving priority because handling keys, cards or keypads may not be conducive or convenient. In that scenario, the client likely needs a biometric solution." But he points out that there's no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to access control and security. The key is to achieve a balance. "Many people try to select creden- tials by leading with the technology," Larsen says. "Instead, they should be finding out about the user, the appli- cations, and the culture. The right technology will follow once those things are understood." Solutions over Sales With customers facing more choices than ever before, they depend on your advice and experience to help them formulate a practical security plan and select an appropriate access con- trol solution. It's vital that each new sales lead is treated not merely as a potential sale, but as an opportunity to build a lasting relationship that will lead to repeat business for your com- pany. The end result will be an access control solution for the present and future, and a satisfied client willing to refer you to others. To find out more about how Allegion can help you implement the right solution for each customer, or about our electronic access control solutions, visit us online at www. allegion.com. ■ Minu Youngkin is the Integrator Marketing Man- ager for Allegion. For more information, visit us.allegion.com. To request more information about the company, visit www. SecurityInfoWatch. com/10215684.